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Scarborough

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Scarborough

Written by: Catherine Hernandez
Narrated by: Catherine Hernandez
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About this listen

In Scarborough, a low-income urban neighborhood, three kids struggle to rise above poverty, abuse, and a system that consistently fails them. The adults in their lives either rise to the occasion or fall by the wayside; together, they make up a troubled yet inspired community that refuses to be undone.

©2017 Catherine Hernandez (P)2018 Audible, Inc.
Asian Creators Fiction Genre Fiction Literary Fiction Literature & Fiction World Literature Inspiring Tearjerking Heartfelt

Go Behind the Scenes of Scarborough

In a conversation with Audible at the 2019 Festival of Literary Diversity in Brampton, Ontario, author Catherine Hernandez explains why it was important for her to represent the LGBTQ+ community in her work.
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Editorial Review

Be moved by this hard-hitting, raw novel that will transport you right from your home to the streets of Scarborough.

Scarborough is the debut novel by Catherine Hernandez, a Canadian writer and native of the GTA. This stunning book was shortlisted as one of the best book finalists for the Toronto Book Awards in 2017, and the Edmund White Award in 2018 was highlighted by Canada Reads. Since its release, it has been moving and educating audiences with its robust look at poverty, prejudice, abuse and the failings of an inherently flawed system.

The story takes place in Scarborough, Ontario, a suburban city of Toronto known for having drastic differences between its wealthy and poor communities. While some areas are full of opulence, others live in low-income and crime-heavy areas. Hernandez’s coming of age story highlights both aspects and the juxtaposition between the two, as well as the striking differences between communities and households of different races. The result is a challenging and powerful take on identity and prejudice, which forces you to take a hard look at yourself and your own biases and privileges.

Moving and eye-opening, this audiobook will change you. Catherine Hernandez narrates the unabridged story herself, adding a depth of knowledge and understanding that only she, as the creator, could. The result is an emotion-fueled reading that focuses on the representation and accessibility of communities - such as LGBTQ communities and minorities - which are often overlooked. It makes you see things from her eyes. Whether you are from Canada or not, have run the streets of Toronto, or know nothing of the area, this story will resonate with you and connect on a deeply personal level. A powerful listen you have to hear for yourself. It is a must-add to your Audible wishlist.
All stars
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What a heartfelt story and read so well by the author. Recommended for all Canadians

So good!!

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I was wary of this book at first because I read other reviews that made me think this was a “bashing white ppl” book. In my black a** opinion, it is not a bashing book. Its stories about people of different cultures feeding into stereotypes... hopefully it’s to show us just how foolish those stereotypes can be when you don’t know a person’s whole story. The characters feel like imperfect people trying to get through their lives without the leg up they deserve. Many of the stories are similar to real life events that happened to me, friends and family. I didn’t grow up in Scarborough (west end 4 life! lol) but it felt like an ode to being raised in a multicultural city that didn’t treat us very friendly, while also showing me what my fellow ppl of colour might have been suffering. I appreciate Hernandez for this book. I wasn’t always a fan of her narration and rated it “okay”.

Relatable representation!

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This book should be required reading for incoming and current teachers to highlight the intersection of education and poverty.

Required Reading for Educators

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This story affected me viscerally. I sobbed gut wrenching sobs. I felt rage at the injustices that I know are all too real and not just contained in the pages of the story. I floated away on the love and determination. The narration was exquisite- it had life and depth. I am recommending this book to everyone. A must read.

Phenomenal- story and narration.

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Ms. Hernandez has written a wonderful book packed with stories that portray a slice of the Toronto borough that often is portrayed as less than a desirable place to live in. The stories reflect a multicultural reality often hidden from the rest of us who are oblivious or indifferent to those whose needs are varied and constant. It is a book that strikes a balance of sad and happy stories. Recommendable.

Great stories.

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