Exclusive: Hulu Passes On “Olga Dies Dreaming” Starring Aubrey Plaza

Before her debut novel “Olga Dies Dreaming” captivated readers, Xochitl Gonzalez, a Brown University alumni, laid the foundation for her fantastically engaging narrative style through early works including short stories and art criticism, reflecting her background in art history and visual arts from the Iowa Writers’ Workshop, where she was an Iowa Arts Fellow. Her tale of a status-driven wedding planner and her congressman brother unraveling their Puerto Rican roots and troubled identities against the backdrop of New York City garnered many admirers. The Washington Post, for example, named it one of the best books of the year and it went on to win the Brooklyn Public Library Literary Prize as well as become a finalist for the International Latino Book Award. Writing about the effects of long-held family secrets and their absent mother’s militant political cause with the Young Lords Party, Gonzalez artfully weaves Puerto Rico’s history and the devastation of the 2017 hurricanes into the public lives of the siblings. Boldfaced names took notice with Book Riot calling it “an exuberant, profound debut” and deeming it a “highly recommended” reading.

Family Strife and Cultural Identity

In the book, we open to the bustling streets of Brooklyn. Olga, a wedding planner extraordinaire amid Manhattan’s power players, and Prieto, a charismatic congressman, are on a journey to untangle their complicated personas. Their lives in a multicultural neighborhood in Sunset Park with a large Latino population, are overshadowed by family secrets and the absence of Prieto’s mother, who committed to a radical political cause with the Young Lords in Puerto Rico. So will they uncover the family’s hidden secrets? Will they navigate through political intrigue while planning still fabulous weddings?

Gonzalez’s novel serves as a conduit for exploring Puerto Rico’s profound cultural and tumultuous history, particularly in the wake of Hurricane Maria, one of the most devastating hurricanes to hit the island. The book does not shy away from the stark realities of its impact on both the landscape and the people of Puerto Rico. Gonzalez infuses “Olga Dies Dreaming” with historical depth revisiting the legacy of colonialism, citizenship, and the Young Lords, a group pivotal in advocating for Puerto Rican rights. This historical backdrop is crucial, as it sets the stage for Olga and Prieto’s identity issues.

Cultural Significance and Legacy

Beyond its storyline, the novel tells readers about the complicated layers of Latino identity in the United States, paying homage to cultural elements like assimilation, code-switching, and even tarot card reading. Gonzalez’s commitment to highlighting Latino experiences and cultural narratives is evident throughout the novel. The book arrived at a landmark cultural moment, reflecting the growing prominence of Latino voices in literature and media. Its appearance during the COVID-19 pandemic, when anti-immigrant sentiment was on the rise, makes it all the more impactful. Gonzalez gives voice to the underrepresented and provides insight into the Latino community for the uninitiated. Gonzalez touches on important themes of cultural erasure, as Olga feels disconnected from her identity and Prieto actively conceals parts of himself.

Their struggles resonate with many Latinos’ experiences in the U.S. where their culture is often minimized. Gonzalez’s multidimensional characters push back against cultural stereotypes. While a work of fiction, the novel illuminates genuine political issues in thought-provoking ways. For instance, the Jones Act affecting Puerto Rico’s ability to receive aid and recover from natural disasters is insightfully examined. Fiction proves a potent vehicle for exploring thorny real-world topics. Ultimately, Gonzalez’s debut novel marks the emergence of a bold talent in the literary world. Her voice represents an important milestone in bringing overlooked Latino stories to the mainstream. She expands the American canon, reinforcing that Latino narratives are American narratives.

A Rising Voice Shaping Latino Narratives

“Olga Dies Dreaming” marks the arrival of a significant voice in American literature. As Xochitl Gonzalez continues to write, produce, and pitch new projects, her influence in both the literary and television realms is set to grow. The novel stands as a beacon in contemporary literature, illuminating the path for future works that explore the intricacies of Latino identity, family dynamics, and the quest for personal fulfillment. It is a reminder of the power of storytelling to bridge cultural divides and shed light on underrepresented voices and stories. As Gonzalez forges her path in the realms of literature and television, her work remains a source of inspiration and a catalyst for important conversations about identity, heritage, and the American dream. With “Olga Dies Dreaming,” she has not only told a story but has also sparked a dialogue about the complexities of the Latino experience in the United States, setting the stage for a richer, more inclusive narrative landscape in American literature.

In a literary landscape that continues to evolve and diversify, Gonzalez’s voice is not only necessary but vital. Her work stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and its ability to transform, enlighten, and connect us all. Xochitl Gonzalez continues to be committed and passionate about her writing, creating, and producing. With great support from her new management, she has already pitched three new television projects. She remains focused on bringing her unique perspective to life on the screen. “I’m really, really, really hoping that the world gets to see this amazing show,” she said, referring to her hopes of revisiting it as a limited series.

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