About This Book
Elizabeth Acevedo's debut adult novel, "Family Lore," is a rich, multi-generational story centered on a Dominican-American family in New York City. When Flor foretells her own death, she decides to host a living wake, prompting her sisters and cousins, Mathilde, Pastora, Camila, Ona, and Yadi, to confront their own destinies and challenges. The narrative weaves together contemporary issues, such as Ona's struggles with fertility and Yadi's complicated reunion with a former love, with elements of magical realism and ancestral wisdom. Acevedo's poetic prose brings depth and vibrancy to these women's lives, exploring themes of family bonds, cultural identity, grief, and resilience. While marketed for adults, its themes of family and self-discovery may resonate with mature young adult readers.
A huge-hearted novel about three generations of women preparing for a living wake - the debut adult novel from the National Book Award-winning poet and YA author of The Poet X
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Discussion Prompts
1
How does the concept of a "living wake" change how the characters approach grief and celebration?
2
Discuss the role of magical realism and ancestral connections in the Marte family's lives. How do these elements shape their understanding of destiny and challenges?
3
How do the different generations of women in the novel navigate their Dominican-American identity?
4
What challenges do Ona and Yadi face, and how do they demonstrate resilience?
5
How does Acevedo's poetic background influence the storytelling and language in "Family Lore"?
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