A House of My Own

Stories from My Life

By: Sandra Cisneros

Narrated by: Sandra Cisneros

From the author of The House on Mango Street, a richly illustrated compilation of true stories and nonfiction pieces that, taken together, form a jigsaw autobiography—an intimate album of a beloved literary legend.

From the Chicago neighborhoods where she grew up and set her groundbreaking The House on Mango Street to her abode in Mexico in a region where “my ancestors lived for centuries,” the places Sandra Cisneros has lived have provided inspiration for her now-classic works of fiction and poetry. But a house of her own, where she could truly take root, has eluded her. With this collection—spanning three decades, and including never-before-published work—Cisneros has come home at last.

Ranging from the private (her parents’ loving and tempestuous marriage) to the political (a rallying cry for one woman’s liberty in Sarajevo) to the literary (a tribute to Marguerite Duras), and written with her trademark lyricism, these signature pieces recall transformative memories as well as reveal her defining artistic and intellectual influences. Poignant, honest, deeply moving, this is an exuberant celebration of a life in writing lived to the fullest.

This speaks to my Mexican American soul

I loved everything about this book except the fact that it had an end. when I finally finished it I just thought to myself what am I going to do now? the answer is listen again

Wonderfully narrated by the author!

The writing of Sandra Cisneros is imaginative, colorful, personal, dreamy and yet, very down to earth at the same time. Her experiences as a woman from two cultures and as someone who grew up in poverty are important stories to be shared in this world that sometimes lacks empathy. Her adventures as a writer traveling but also seeking a home are fabulous. And to hear all of this read by the author herself is an absolute treat! She’s the most relaxed and expressive narrator I’ve ever heard on audible. Highly recommended!

I'm a Cisneros Fan!

Any additional comments?

Sandra Cisneros is one of my favorite authors, and A House of My Own is one of her best books. It’s a collection of essays that she wrote over many years, all with the theme of owning a house. Cisneros’ life has been as interesting as her books. This memoir, of sorts, chronicled her unique journey through relationships, houses and writing. (I think that she probably would have reversed the order of importance on that list.) I listened to the Audible version, which was read by Cisneros. This is one case where I would recommend listening to the audio version. Cisneros brings all of the Spanish names and quotes to life in a way that can’t be duplicated by reading alone. I’m sure it would be a good read, but it’s a great listen!

Lovely Memoir-ish

What made the experience of listening to A House of My Own the most enjoyable?

Sandra Cisneros is a lovely and relatable voice. The book is a collection of introductions, commissioned pieces, and essays written by Sandra Cisneros over the years. There are a few introductions to various editions of House on Mango Street, introductions to other authors' work (so be prepared to read some other books as a result of this one like Time of the Doves and Open Veins of Latin America), essays about art that is difficult to find on the internet, and music. My favorite thing about this book is the vulnerable honesty that Sandra Cisneros shares. She admits to feeling not entitled to be a writer and artist. She admits to relationship trouble. She admits to writer's block and the difficulty of art and inspiration. She admits to financial trouble. I think most people can relate to her struggles - especially people suffering from impostor syndrome. The book is read by the author, which I usually enjoy, but it does take some getting used to. Her voice is a little bit high, so listen to the sample to see if you will like it.

Excellently written

Opened up my eyes to her story which we never knew. Enjoyed reading and learning so much about her past