Juliet Takes a Breath summary

Exploring Identity and Activism

In Juliet Takes a Breath by Gabby Rivera, we meet Juliet Palante, a Puerto Rican from the Bronx, who is coming out to her family as a lesbian. She's about to embark on an internship with her feminist idol, Harlowe Brisbane, in Portland. The story begins with Juliet's journey of self-discovery and her quest to understand her identity as a queer woman of color.

Set in the early 2000s, the novel delves into the complexities of intersectional feminism, exploring how race, sexuality, and class intersect within feminist movements. Juliet finds herself confronted with a new set of challenges in Portland, where the feminist space she expected to be inclusive is predominantly white and fails to acknowledge the experiences of women of color.

Challenging Feminist Norms

During her internship with Harlowe, Juliet learns about the concept of womanhood and how it is defined by different cultures and communities. She is exposed to radical feminist theories and practices, which challenge her preconceived notions of gender and sexuality. Through Harlowe and her community, Juliet begins to understand the power dynamics within feminism and the importance of intersectionality in fighting oppression.

However, Juliet also experiences disillusionment as she realizes the limitations of Harlowe's brand of feminism. She discovers that Harlowe, despite her activism, is not immune to perpetuating the same oppressive structures she fights against. This realization forces Juliet to question her own beliefs and find her voice within the feminist movement.

Embracing Cultural Roots

As Juliet grapples with the challenges of her internship and her evolving identity, she finds solace in her Puerto Rican roots. She reconnects with her family and begins to appreciate the cultural traditions and values that shaped her. Juliet starts to see the strength and resilience of her community, which helps her navigate the complexities of her identity as a queer woman of color.

Through her journey, Juliet learns to embrace her multiple identities and understand the importance of inclusivity in feminist spaces. She begins to challenge the normative ideas of femininity and womanhood, advocating for a feminism that is truly intersectional and inclusive of all women, regardless of their race, sexuality, or social status.

Conclusion: A Journey of Self-Discovery

In Juliet Takes a Breath, Gabby Rivera presents a powerful coming-of-age story that explores the intersections of race, gender, and sexuality. The novel captures Juliet's journey of self-discovery and her struggle to find her place within the feminist movement. Through her experiences in Portland and her reconnection with her roots, Juliet emerges as a stronger and more self-assured individual, ready to challenge the status quo and fight for a more inclusive and diverse feminism.