I never had a quinceañera or a sweet 16 for that matter but the book Fifteen Candles by Adriana Lopez contains fifteen stories that any Latina in her late 20’s to late 30’s can relate to. Subtitled 15 Tales of Taffeta, Hairspray, Drunk Uncles, and other Quinceanera Stories , the tales contain numerous pop culture references (many from the 80’s) that had me giggling. The anthology is divided into five sections with three stories each featuring some of the best Latino writers out there. My favorite story has to be Love Rehearsals by Angie Cruz because it reminded me so much of when I was a dama in a friend’s court.

The anthology features not just female writers but males as well which offers a fresh perspective on the female coming of age ceremony/waste of money. The book is at its best when the stories are funny. Some stories are a bit too sentimental for my tastes but the book really has something for everyone. This book is a perfect beach or poolside read this summer (although I read most of it on the subway myself) so pick it up and pack it up in your bag.

To learn more about the book and to purchase it go to Harper Collins

It’s important to support Latino writers!!!