Today, I’m sharing my conversation with author Sindy F., who wrote If I Denounce My Accent. This novel is based on true events, and I finished it on our holiday vacation in the Dominican Republic. There was something different about reading a book about the Dominican culture and experience while being in the Dominican Republic.
Sindy talks about moving from the Dominican Republic to New Jersey. At the age of 14 without knowing how to speak English. She shares about her first culture shock and the writing process of her novel. Sindy says the writing process for her was like a love letter to herself. She shares topics that are usually taboo to talk about in the Dominican culture. I’m so excited to share her story with you today.
From the Dominican Republic to New Jersey
Sindy recounts her childhood in the Dominican Republic as filled with family warmth and daily beach visits. However, her move to New Jersey at 14 was a stark contrast. “I thought things would be easier,” she admits. Reflecting on the cultural shock of diverse populations, towering schools, and the need to learn English from scratch. Despite the challenges, she found solace in the Dominican community, which helped her adjust to her new environment. I’m so glad that the Dominican community embraced her and helped her. Because I’ve heard of stories where the opposite happened.
Returning to the Dominican Republic after her move was bittersweet. Sindy describes visiting her hometown as stepping into a time capsule: “It’s like I never left,” she says, noting the unchanged homes and conversations that reconnect her with her roots. This can be taken as a good thing or a bad thing because, on one hand, it’s like she’s never left, and on the other hand, people might criticize and say that people don’t progress and are doing the same thing.
Writing as Healing for Sindy F.
Sindy’s book captures the complexities of migration, cultural identity, and personal growth. Writing the book was deeply therapeutic for Sindy. “It felt like a love letter to myself,” she shares, noting how the process allowed her to confront lifelong struggles with depression and embrace her unique story. Inspired by Dominican authors like Junot Díaz and Julia Alvarez, Sindy sought to offer a narrative that celebrates immigrant experiences while shedding light on the sacrifices involved in chasing the American dream.
When you purchase her book on her website, you will receive a care package that includes a meaningful cultural item: the iconic faceless Dominican doll. Sindy explains the doll’s significance: “It’s a cultural symbol that helps people feel seen.” She aims to provide readers with a tangible connection to Dominican heritage by including it.
Lessons on Grace and Representation
Sindy F. hopes readers of her book walk away with a sense of grace—not just for her characters, but for themselves. Her goal isn’t to teach but to share: “I was in the dark for so long. I want to be out in the world and share my pain in a way that feels seen and understood.” She also wishes to spark conversations about topics that are typically not talked about in the Dominican community – like mental health.
I wrote before about reading Sindy’s book during a trip to the Dominican Republic, and described the emotional resonance of seeing the country through Sindy’s vivid descriptions while being immersed in its culture.
Watch Now
Listen in on Sindy F’s incredible journey!
Join the Substack community for The American Dream in the Eyes of Immigrants Podcast and receive the episodes in your inbox. You can also leave comments and interact with other listeners.
Other Posts You May Enjoy:
