A House of My Own

Stories from My Life

De: Sandra Cisneros

Narrado por: Sandra Cisneros

From the author of The House on Mango Street, a richly illustrated compilation of true stories and nonfiction pieces that, taken together, form a jigsaw autobiography—an intimate album of a beloved literary legend.

From the Chicago neighborhoods where she grew up and set her groundbreaking The House on Mango Street to her abode in Mexico in a region where “my ancestors lived for centuries,” the places Sandra Cisneros has lived have provided inspiration for her now-classic works of fiction and poetry. But a house of her own, where she could truly take root, has eluded her. With this collection—spanning three decades, and including never-before-published work—Cisneros has come home at last.

Ranging from the private (her parents’ loving and tempestuous marriage) to the political (a rallying cry for one woman’s liberty in Sarajevo) to the literary (a tribute to Marguerite Duras), and written with her trademark lyricism, these signature pieces recall transformative memories as well as reveal her defining artistic and intellectual influences. Poignant, honest, deeply moving, this is an exuberant celebration of a life in writing lived to the fullest.

This speaks to my Mexican American soul

I loved everything about this book except the fact that it had an end. when I finally finished it I just thought to myself what am I going to do now? the answer is listen again

Lovely Memoir-ish

What made the experience of listening to A House of My Own the most enjoyable?

Sandra Cisneros is a lovely and relatable voice. The book is a collection of introductions, commissioned pieces, and essays written by Sandra Cisneros over the years. There are a few introductions to various editions of House on Mango Street, introductions to other authors' work (so be prepared to read some other books as a result of this one like Time of the Doves and Open Veins of Latin America), essays about art that is difficult to find on the internet, and music. My favorite thing about this book is the vulnerable honesty that Sandra Cisneros shares. She admits to feeling not entitled to be a writer and artist. She admits to relationship trouble. She admits to writer's block and the difficulty of art and inspiration. She admits to financial trouble. I think most people can relate to her struggles - especially people suffering from impostor syndrome. The book is read by the author, which I usually enjoy, but it does take some getting used to. Her voice is a little bit high, so listen to the sample to see if you will like it.

Excellently written

Opened up my eyes to her story which we never knew. Enjoyed reading and learning so much about her past

Sandra Cisneros gives us a glimpse into her life

What made the experience of listening to A House of My Own the most enjoyable?

I love Sandra Cisneros, and though this book is not a work of fiction, Sandra narrates the story of her life, and brings us up from her childhood through her education as a young poet and write, into her current life. Insightful, and engaging.

What was one of the most memorable moments of A House of My Own?

I love hearing about her childhood

Which character – as performed by Sandra Cisneros – was your favorite?

No characters, just her

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes

Any additional comments?

A must read for those who are students of Ethnic Studies, or Women's Studies

Afternoon with a friend

House on Mango sits on my shelf and the sweet voice of Sandra Cisneros keeps me company like an old friend.