A Story of Language, Identity & Belonging

Exclusive Signed Edition

When Rodney Eric López was a child growing up in the Bronx, he overheard his mother say, "Hable en español para que él no entienda" — "Speak in Spanish so he won't understand."

The words stayed with him.

They opened a lifelong search for belonging, identity, and connection to a culture he loved but often felt separated from by language.

In this powerful social memoir, López gives voice to an experience many Latinos know but do not always name: the ache of feeling "not Latino enough." With honesty, cultural insight, and deep reflection, he examines language, race, assimilation, family, and the pressure to perform identity perfectly.

But this book does not stay in shame. It moves toward reclamation.

For López, that movement came through salsa — a language of rhythm, memory, and resilience born from the Caribbean diaspora. Through dance, he found another way to connect with his ancestors, his community, and himself.

This is a book for anyone who has ever felt caught between languages, cultures, expectations, or versions of themselves.

Culture is not only what we speak. It is what we carry. It is what we remember. It is how we move.

H.O.L.A. Books Exclusive Signed Edition

This signed edition includes exclusive extras created for our readers:

• An author-signed copy
• A custom bookmark
• A postcard featuring a curated playlist inspired by the book

A meaningful edition for readers reclaiming identity, rhythm, language, and belonging.