The Book of Unknown Americans

by Cristina Henríquez
The Book of Unknown Americans cover
Good Books rating 4.33
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Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99
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  • ID: 7523
  • Added: 2025-12-14
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
Omnilegent · 2020-04-27
excellent 5.00

The book is a richly-written novel that is both poignant and hopeful. The reviewer found it deeply moving and engaging.

The reviewer was deeply moved by the book, describing it as a richly-written novel that balances poignant moments with a sense of hope. They found the characters and their stories to be deeply engaging and emotionally resonant. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to tackle complex themes with sensitivity and nuance, making it a powerful and memorable read. The narrative is praised for its honesty and the way it brings to life the experiences of immigrants in a compelling and relatable manner.

Quick quotes

    Five stars for The Book of Unknown Americans by Cristina Henríquez.

    I devoured this richly-written novel, that is simultaneously poignant and hopeful.

    This is simply a vivid piece about real people, honest individuals.

Book by Book · 2016-06-09
positive 4.50

The book works on two levels: as a well-told story of families and first love, and as a rare peek into an insular community. The narrative is intricate and engaging.

The reviewer finds the book to be a rich and engaging exploration of family dynamics and first love, set against the backdrop of an insular community. They appreciate the intricate storytelling and the unique perspective it offers on immigrant life. The reviewer highlights the book's ability to balance personal narratives with broader social commentary, making it a compelling read. The characters are well-developed, and the story is told with a level of honesty that resonates deeply.

Quick quotes

    The book works on two levels: as an intricate, well-told story of families and first love and as a rare peek into an insular community that is often ...

    The story Henriquez tells is a compelling one, and she deftly shows us the many challenges that immigrants face in this country while making us ...

    I devoured this richly-written novel, that is simultaneously poignant and hopeful.

The Guardian · 2014-07-19
mixed 3.50

The book is strongest when focusing on the central characters, but it spends too much time on peripheral elements. The narrative is compelling and highlights the challenges faced by immigrants.

The reviewer appreciates the book's focus on central characters, finding the narrative compelling and the portrayal of immigrant challenges insightful. However, they feel the book spends too much time on less important elements, which detracts from the overall impact. The reviewer suggests that a tighter focus could have made the story even more powerful. The book is seen as a poignant exploration of immigrant experiences, but the peripheral elements dilute its effectiveness.

Quick quotes

    The book is markedly stronger when it focuses on the central characters.

    Henríquez spends too much time on the periphery of her story.

    The story Henriquez tells is a compelling one.

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