One Tribe: A Novel : Book Review

One Tribe by M. Evelina Galang is a poignant and powerful novel that delves into the lives of seven Filipino women who work as domestic workers in the United States. The story is set in both the Philippines and Chicago, exploring the complexities of migration, identity, and the strong bonds that connect these women.

What sets One Tribe apart is Galang's ability to create fully developed and relatable characters. Each woman in the book has her own unique voice and personal history, which adds depth and authenticity to the narrative. From Vangie, a survivor of the Bataan Death March, to Lola Puring, who dreams of returning to her homeland, these characters are compelling and their stories tug at the heartstrings.

Galang's writing style is evocative and lyrical, transporting readers to various settings in the story. Through vivid descriptions, readers are immersed in the bustling streets of Manila, the lush landscapes of rural provinces, and the fast-paced urban environment of Chicago. This vivid imagery adds richness to the storytelling and enhances the reader's understanding of the characters' experiences.

Through the interconnected stories of these women, Galang explores themes of resilience, belonging, and the impact of colonialism. She sheds light on the sacrifices and challenges faced by those who leave their homeland in search of better opportunities, while also addressing issues of class, race, and gender that shape their lives.

Overall, One Tribe is a beautifully written and emotionally charged novel that sheds light on the experiences of Filipino women working as domestic workers in the United States. Galang's engaging storytelling and well-crafted characters make this a compelling read that offers a profound understanding of their journey. It serves as a powerful testament to the strength and resilience of these women, while also providing broader commentary on migration, identity, and the Filipino diaspora.

What are readers saying?

One Tribe, written by M. Evelina Galang, has been warmly received by readers due to its compelling narrative, powerful characters, and emotional resonance. This book revolves around the Filipino survivors of World War II and their subsequent immigration to the United States. Galang's talent for crafting a realistic and vivid portrayal of the Filipino experience during and after the war has been highly praised by readers. The extensive research and attention to detail that went into writing this book successfully captures the heart-wrenching journey of the characters. The author's writing style, described as evocative and poignant, deeply engages readers with the lives of the survivors and fosters a profound connection to their struggles and triumphs.

The characters in One Tribe have garnered significant acclaim for their complexity and relatability. Readers appreciate Galang's ability to create flawed yet resilient and inspiring individuals. These characters intertwine seamlessly, constructing a cohesive narrative that explores themes of identity, love, and resilience. Many reviewers express how profoundly moved they were by the emotional journeys of these characters, as their struggles and triumphs lingered in their minds long after reading the book.

Another aspect of One Tribe that merits praise is its exploration of the immigrant experience in the United States. Galang sheds light on the challenges faced by Filipino immigrants as they endeavor to establish new lives in an unfamiliar country while preserving their cultural identity. Readers value the book for illuminating the often overlooked history of Filipino immigration and how it resonates with contemporary issues surrounding immigration and assimilation.

Overall, the reviews for One Tribe emphasize the book's powerful storytelling, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking examination of the Filipino immigrant experience. Readers admire M. Evelina Galang's skill in crafting an emotionally impactful narrative that sheds light on an important and often neglected aspect of history.