Esmeralda - Meine Jugend in New York (2002) Online

The sequel to "When I Was Puerto Rican" has been adapted by the authoress herself and made into a charming coming-of-age story of a young Puerto Rican woman who learns to juggle multiple personas as she tries to survive the trials and tribulations of an immigrant in 1960s New York. The actress chosen to play "Negi", Ana Maria Lagasca, is a find and should do great things in her career. Wanda De Jesus, who plays the mother, is a consummate artist worth watching just for her beauty alone.

I watched this movie in linguistics course as a graduate student. I have to say that this film is phenomenal! The movie embodies the struggles and victories that many people in this country face everyday. Growing up, I saw many students get made fun of because they didn't know the English language. I remember being my mom's translator and seeing how she was treated because she didn't know English. This movie hit close to home because there were many situations throughout the movies that I have been a witness to and have even been in. As a bilingual teacher, I see my students go through many of the feelings and situations that are portrayed in the film. Again, this is a great film! recommend it to your friends!