Book Review | This is how you lose her by Junot Díaz

Mostly linked by a common character, this book of short stories serves as a window into other lives. The featured protagonist, Yunior, came to the US from the Dominican Republic as a little boy. As suggested by the title, This Is How You Lose Her shares tales of failed relationships, cultural struggle and human interaction.

Though you will likely never be in most of the depicted situations, Díaz’s descriptions allow you to feel present and understand the characters’ dilemmas. He uses Spanish slang and a vocabulary that may make some readers uncomfortable, but this also adds to the authenticity of the work. The stories are not told chronologically, but piecing them together allows for extra time to reflect on how they are connected. It’s a good read when you’re looking for something a little different that allows you step into someone else’s shoes for the day.