Customer Reviews

My Daughter's Eyes and Other Stories

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Annecy Báez, recipient of the 2007 Miguel Mármol Prize, introduces us to a diverse array of intriguing characters in her debut work of prose. Masterfully woven, the short stories included in MY DAUGHTER'S EYES AND OTHER STORIES (Curbstone Press, ISBN: 978-1-931896-38-2, $15.00) trace the trials and triumphs of young women as they struggle to assimilate to American culture while staying constantly aware of their strict Dominican roots.
Set in the Bronx, the Dominican Republic, and New York State, MY DAUGHTER'S EYES brings us full circle as we watch these young female relatives and friends become adolescents, women, and eventually mothers. Báez's characters are caught in cultural limbo, striving to experience the independence American women sought in the 1970s while pressured to be virtuous Catholic Dominican girls.
The urban environment challenges these young women, in time building their strength and resilience. Báez works teenage pregnancy, child abuse, developing sexuality, and identity issues flawlessly into her narrative, bridging the fourteen stories into one carefully crafted novel-esque piece.
Conflict between the main protagonist, Mia, and her father sends her into a deeply introverted state. Pensively exploring the role of women in society, Mia turns to a spiritual advisor for guidance and finds healing through meditation.
While failed relationships and dishonesty plague the women around her, Mia remains courageous and secure in the identity she has built, removing herself from unpleasant circumstances. Mia, along with the other female protagonists, are ultimately able to create a balance between the culture of their elders and that of American society, utilizing their personal experiences to create valuable parental insight. Ultimately, the individual will conquers societal bounds in this wonderfully written, highly worthwhile read.

This book brought up alot of memories, both good & bad. It's amazing how alike our cultures (moms) are. I loved this book & plan to have my grandaughters read it.