Dreaming of You: A Novel in Verse

Dreaming of You is a macabre novel in verse that explores the complexities of Latinx identity, self-loathing, love, and the loneliness of drifting into adulthood. It follows a young Latinx poet who resurrects Tejano pop star Selena Quintanilla from the dead and journeys through a dead celebrity prom, encounters her shadow self, and performs karaoke in hell. The novel is written in visceral poems that embody millennial angst, paragraph-long conversations overheard at her local coffeeshop, and unhinged Twitter rants. It is a playful yet candid interrogation of Latinidad, womanhood, obsession, and disillusionment, and grapples with the cost of being seen for one's truest self.

Format: Hardback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 26 October 2021
Publisher: Astra Publishing House

Dreaming of You is a feverish tale of young adulthood that delves into the profound impact of fandom and obsession on our relationships with the world. Written by Melissa Lozada-Oliva, this captivating novel explores the complexities of Latinx identity, self-loathing, love, and the isolating experience of drifting into adulthood.

At the heart of this exploration lies Melissa Lozada-Oliva, an unapologetic poet who fearlessly delves into the raw depths of the mind. Her resilience in her writing is evident, making it feel as if we are conversing with our closest confidante. Bianca Pérez of Porter House Review praises Lozada-Oliva's ability to create a sense of intimacy, stating that the reader feels as if they are privy to the poet's most intimate thoughts and feelings.

Dreaming of You is a macabre novel in verse that explores themes of loss, longing, and identity crises. The story follows a young Latinx poet who, in a moment of desperation, decides to resurrect pop star Selena Quintanilla from the dead. The narrative is accompanied by a Greek chorus of gossiping spirits, as the poet embarks on a surreal journey through a dead celebrity prom, encounters her shadow self, and even performs karaoke in hell.

Through visceral poems that capture the essence of millennial angst, lengthy conversations overheard at her local coffeeshop, and unhinged Twitter rants, Lozada-Oliva unveils an eerie, sometimes gruesome, yet profoundly moving love story. Dreaming of You playfully blends morbidity with candidness, delving into the complexities of Latinidad, womanhood, obsession, and disillusionment.

What sets this novel apart is its interrogation of the cost of being seen for one's truest self. Lozada-Oliva challenges societal expectations and stereotypes, offering a fresh perspective on the complexities of identity and the pursuit of authenticity. Her writing is raw, honest, and relatable, resonating with readers who are navigating their own journeys of self-discovery.

In conclusion, Dreaming of You is a must-read for anyone who appreciates bold and thought-provoking literature. With its captivating narrative, relatable characters, and profound exploration of identity, this novel offers a unique and captivating perspective on the joys, insecurities, and complexities of young adulthood. Melissa Lozada-Oliva's talent as a poet and storyteller shines through, making Dreaming of You a memorable and enduring work of literature.

Weight: 304g
Dimension: 147 x 217 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781662600593