Kali Fajardo-Anstine's Woman of Light has been praised for its evocative prose and rich cultural tapestry, bringing the stories of a Chicano family to life with vibrancy. However, some critics note that its complex narrative structure can be challenging to follow. Overall, it's a compelling tale of heritage and resilience.

Readers who cherish multi-generational, culturally rich narratives like Isabel Allende’s The House of the Spirits or Gabriel García Márquez’s One Hundred Years of Solitude will be captivated by Kali Fajardo-Anstine’s Woman of Light. Lovers of strong female leads, historical settings, and Latino heritage will find this novel deeply engaging.

In Woman of Light by Kali Fajardo-Anstine, the story centers on Luz "Little Light" Lopez, a young clairvoyant, and spans multiple decades of the 20th century. Luz and her family, of Mexican, Pueblo, and European heritage, battle against racial and economic oppression while enduring personal trials including police harassment, alcohol addiction, and family separation. Topics include alcohol addiction; anti-gay bias; racism and racist violence; sexual advances toward a minor; sexual assault; forced abortion; and stillbirth.

Melancholic / Bittersweet / Nostalgic / Emotional / Mysterious

- Woman of Light is set in Denver during the 1930s and draws inspiration from the rich multicultural heritage of the author, Kali Fajardo-Anstine, who is of Chicana, Indigenous, and Filipina descent.
- Kali Fajardo-Anstine is also the author of the acclaimed short story collection Sabrina & Corina, which was a finalist for the National Book Award for Fiction in 2019.
- The novel explores the complexities of familial and ancestral memories in a narrative that is known for its vivid, lyrical prose and historical depth.

**Luz “Little Light” Lopez**  
An 18-year-old clairvoyant and multiracial young woman determined to find her path amid familial and societal challenges. She works in a laundry in Denver and takes on new roles to support her family.

**Maria Josie/Josefina**  
The strong and independent aunt of Luz and Diego who raises them when they come to Denver. She works at a factory and shares her clairvoyant abilities with her foremothers.

**Lizette**  
The worldly 18-year-old cousin of Luz and Diego who works alongside Luz in a laundry. She is engaged to her boyfriend Alfonso and sews her wedding gown.

**Diego Lopez**  
Luz’s older brother known for his good looks and snake charming abilities. He works both at a rubber company and with rattlesnakes, and faces critical choices regarding his family.

**Pidre Lopez**  
An affable negotiator who creates an entertainment show and is a father to Sara and Maria Josie. He is of Indigenous and Spanish heritage and is involved in a tragic conflict over land rights.

**Simodecea Salazar-Smith**  
A Mexican sharpshooter and the main attraction in Pidre's show, who shares a strong bond with her daughters, Sara and Maria Josie. She demonstrates resilience and foresight in her role within the family.

**David Tikas**  
The son of a Greek grocer who becomes a lawyer advocating for the rights of marginalized individuals. He has a connection with Luz’s family and employs her as an assistant in his practice.

**Avel Cosme**  
A handyman and trumpet player who becomes romantically involved with Luz. He interacts closely with her family and community in Denver.

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