¡Wepa!: 10 Books That Celebrate Puerto Rico’s Rich Culture

A lush and epic novel that travels from nineteenth-century Spain to Puerto Rico, CONQUISTADORA follows a young woman as she and her husband inherit a sugar plantation on the island. But with the threat of the American Civil War on the horizon, how she can reconcile her livelihood with her family’s cruel use of slaves? With vivid prose and unforgettable characters, this is a moving and lyrical saga.

In this celebration of hope, resilience, and the best of humanity, chef José Andrés writes about his work in Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria. A firsthand account of how he and others managed to serve more than 100,000 meals a day while also witnessing the waste of some of the biggest charities and NGOs that were stationed on the island, this is a passionate reminder to always help those in need.

The authoritative text for anyone who wishes to understand the complex relationship between the United States and Puerto Rico, this masterwork starts with Spain’s rule over the island and continues through to modern times. With clear language, José Trías Monge effortlessly explores the ins and outs of Puerto Rico’s status as a commonwealth and the various debates over its future.

As the first Latina to be appointed to the United States Supreme Court, Sonia Sotomayor’s story is an unforgettable and thoroughly inspiring one. In this gripping memoir, Sotomayor reveals how—with fierce determination—she rose to become high school valedictorian and achieve the highest honors at Princeton University, Yale Law School, and finally the Supreme Court. This is a masterful celebration of hard work and perseverance.

This moving and relatable coming-of-age story follows young Verdita as she enters her teenage years in rural Puerto Rico in 1961. This turbulent time in the island’s history provides the backdrop to the complicated rites of womanhood as she struggles to stay true to her roots and also embrace her own unique dreams and goals. An evocative and poignant novel.

The creator of Hamilton and one of today’s most prominent Puerto Rican celebrities collects some of his most inspiring and charming poetry and prose in this beautifully executed book of daily affirmations. Perfect for longtime and new Miranda fans, GMORNING, GNIGHT! is an enchanting gift of a book that reminds us of our own profound talents.

From the bestselling author and journalist, this eye-opening and in-depth book explores how longtime colonialism and disaster capitalism have adversely affected the economy and citizens of Puerto Rico. With accessible writing and fascinating research, THE BATTLE FOR PARADISE is an unforgettable and rousing call to action.

The great baseball player Roberto Clemente—who died in a plane crash en route to deliver supplies to Nicaragua after an earthquake—is one of Puerto Rico’s favorite and most beloved sons. In this expansive biography, the legendary hero is brought to vivid life. Whether you’re a sports fan or not, you will find this book to be a compelling read on a truly inspirational life.

When a struggling writer in San Juan is confronted with mysterious and creepy messages, it soon becomes clear that he has a fanatical stalker. With thrilling twists and turns, this suspenseful novel takes you on a breathless journey exploring the thin line between admiration and obsession.

This gorgeously wrought anthology explores what it means to be Puerto Rican in today’s world, directly from some of the best Puerto Rican comics creators. With beautiful art and heartfelt prose, this collection effortlessly illustrates the profound diversity of the Puerto Rican population, and proceeds go directly to the island’s recovery from Hurricane Maria.