A powerful debut novel that's hilarious, heartbreaking, and ass-kicking (Jamie Ford), of a Puerto Rican family in Staten Island who discovers their long‑missing sister is potentially alive and cast on a reality TV show, and they set out to bring her home.A Most Anticipated Book of 2023 by Elle • USA Today • Today.com • Ms. Magazine • Good Housekeeping • Bustle • The Week • Goodreads • Bookriot • Pop Culturely • SheReads • Litreactor • Electric Lit • The Mary Sue • People Español • Zibby Mag The Ramirez women of Staten Island orbit around absence. When thirteen‑year‑old middle child Ruthy disappeared after track practice without a trace, it left the family scarred and scrambling. One night, twelve years later, oldest sister Jessica spots a woman on her TV screen in Catfight, a raunchy reality show. She rushes to tell her younger sister, Nina: This woman's hair is dyed red, and she calls herself Ruby, but the beauty mark under her left eye is instantly recognizable. Could it be Ruthy, after all this time? The years since Ruthy's disappearance haven't been easy on the Ramirez family. Its 2008, and their mother, Dolores, still struggles with the loss, Jessica juggles a newborn baby with her hospital job, and Nina, after four successful years at college, has returned home to medical school rejections and is forced to work in the mall folding tiny bedazzled thongs at the lingerie store. After seeing maybe‑Ruthy on their screen, Jessica and Nina hatch a plan to drive to where the show is filmed in search of their long‑lost sister. When Dolores catches wind of their scheme, she insists on joining, along with her pot-stirring holy roller best friend, Irene. What follows is a family road trip and reckoning that will force the Ramirez women to finally face the past and look toward a future—with or without Ruthy in it. What Happened to Ruthy Ramirez is a vivid family portrait, in all its shattered reality, exploring the familial bonds between women and cycles of generational violence, colonialism, race, and silence, replete with snark, resentment, tenderness, and, of course, love.
What Happened to Ruthy Ramirez by Claire Jimenez
In the captivating novel "What Happened to Ruthy Ramirez" by Claire Jimenez, readers are taken on a journey of mystery, suspense, and emotional exploration. The story follows the disappearance of Ruthy Ramirez, a vibrant young woman whose sudden absence leaves her family and community reeling. As the days turn into weeks, a sense of unease and dread permeates the air, as people wonder what could have happened to Ruthy.
The narrative unfolds through the perspectives of various characters, each with their own unique insights and connections to Ruthy. Her family members, friends, and acquaintances provide glimpses into her life, revealing her dreams, aspirations, and the challenges she faced. As the investigation into Ruthy's disappearance progresses, suspicions arise, secrets are unveiled, and the truth becomes increasingly elusive.
With each passing chapter, readers are drawn deeper into the enigma surrounding Ruthy's fate. The author skillfully weaves together elements of crime, drama, and psychological exploration, creating a compelling and thought-provoking narrative. The characters are vividly portrayed, their struggles and emotions rendered with authenticity, making them relatable and deeply affecting.
As the novel progresses, the mystery of Ruthy's disappearance intensifies, leading to unexpected twists and turns. The boundaries between truth and deception blur, and readers are left questioning the motives and actions of those closest to Ruthy. The narrative delves into themes of loss, grief, and the complexities of human relationships.
In "What Happened to Ruthy Ramirez," Claire Jimenez delivers a gripping and emotionally charged story that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. With its intricate plot, well-crafted characters, and exploration of profound themes, this novel will resonate with readers long after they finish the final page.
