A debut novel from Melissa Mogollon that explores the multigenerational relationship within a Colombian family living in Florida.

This book was interesting largely in part because of how it was written- it follows the main character, Luciana who converses via phone calls with her sister Mari who is away at college in the Northeastern United States. The family experiences a series of challenges together- ultimately forcing Luciana to become the caretaker of her Abuela.

The prose of the novel is witty and humorous- and the references to Colombia and Colombian culture are spot on. As a Colombian myself, I could not help but laugh at references to popular Colombian pop singers, and smile at the vivid imagery used to describe the land itself.

Melissa Mogollon created characters that ooze “novella” as we learn of Abue’s family and her turbulent past, Luciana’s friends, and her sister.

This book goes from funny, to shocking, sad, to heartfelt, and at the heart of the novel, we understand the true presence and value that Abue has created in her family- and that one that will certainly never be forgotten.

Thank you NetGalley and Random House for the e ARC!

~ I received an ARC copy of Oye from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review~

The blurb of this book promises a unique tale following Luciana and her family through a hurricane and a tough medical situation. And honestly, Mogollon delivers. Oye’s structure is that of a phone call between Luciana and Mari, her sister away at college, and it spares us no details. Like any conversation between sisters, there’s laughter and sadness, tension and truth, and through it Mogollon addresses identity, family, immigration, gender and sexuality within the pages of this book. Following the women in this family was definitely a ride, but I’m glad I followed through. Oye was a joy to read.

A magnificent, unique and touching debut novel, Oye by Melissa Mogollon explores multigenerational relationships between women in a Columbian family living in Florida. The brilliant, hilarious and loving narrator, Luciana, navigates the care of her aging, eccentric grandmother and complex relationships with her mother and sister as she completes high school while also grappling with homophobia in her family.

The compelling, poignant story is told through a telephone dialogue between Lucinda and her overachieving sister, Mari, who is a college student in the Northeastern US. This unique style facilitates remarkable character development. Luciana explores her epic, outlandish, hilarious and heart-breaking family history.

I absolutely loved this book and getting to know Luciana and the dynamic women in her family.

Thank you to NetGalley and Random House for a free advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.

In a debut novel that brilliantly captures the essence of both coming-of-age and family drama, the importance of grandmothers in Latinx families takes center stage in "Oye" by Melissa Mogollon.

Set against the backdrop of a looming hurricane and the chaos it brings, "Oye" introduces us to Luciana, the youngest member of her lively family. As the storm approaches, Luciana's grandmother, Abue, stubbornly refuses to evacuate, setting off a series of events that unravel family secrets and reshape their relationships. What ensues is a heartwarming and often uproarious journey of self-discovery, love, and the unbreakable ties that bind families together.

At the core of the novel is the captivating relationship between Luciana and Abue. Abue's vivacity and unpredictability provide a stark contrast to Luciana's own aspirations and challenges, resulting in a dynamic interplay that keeps readers engaged and entertained. Luciana's transition from an observer on the sidelines to a caretaker and confidante for her grandmother allows her to step into her own, while also highlighting the transformative role that grandmothers often play in guiding their grandchildren through life's complexities.

"Oye" made me laugh, cry, experience nostalgia, and remember the wisdom of my own abuela. This novel reminds us that even in the face of life's storms, the presence and influence of a grandmother can provide a steady anchor, guiding us with a blend of tradition and contemporary wisdom.

Thank you to the author and publisher for the e-arc copy!

I was intrigued by the concept of the phone conversations. It’s an inventive way to write a book but I would have liked to hear both sides of the conversation. I learned a lot about evacuating during a hurricane in Florida. Thanks for the review copy.