Clap When You Land. Elizabeth Acevedo. 2020. Quill Tree Books. 432 pages. [Source: Public library.]
As the daughter of an immigrant and a man whose image in my mind is nothing like what society holds … this book touched me on so many levels. Acevedo amazingly highlights a family and its complexities. She pays homage to a tragedy I’ve never heard of (flight 587 
), expresses understanding, respect and honor to a religion that showcases the strength of our ancestors.
She shows the masses and unfamiliar that not everyone is dying to get to this country. Through Camino, she reminds that there is not always the assumed hatred for one’s native country, but a desire for a better opportunity. The love, respect and allegiance for their home remains … and along with their opportunity, they inherit a debt to those left behind. The one that “left” shoulders the burden of providing more opportunities for those that remain. The characters perfectly reflect the emotions each side feels … the difference in perspective.
Add in the secrets held within a family, and like this book you have a pot boiling over with history, hidden agendas, lack of understanding and moments that will impact you for a lifetime. Yano was not fully who anyone thought he was. He left nothing but pain and uncertainty in his absence, but from that his daughters thrived. They benefited more from his “nothing” than the meager offerings he had always given. I love Camino and Yahaira equally … I’ve known them both … they are more familiar than I like.
Clap When You Land has officially earned a spot in my forever top 5.
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