Out of Darkness by Ashley Hope Pérez is critically acclaimed for its powerful storytelling and complex characters. The novel effectively addresses racial and cultural tensions of the 1930s, though some find its depiction of violence disturbing. Praised for its emotional depth and historical accuracy, the book draws strong reader engagement despite its controversial themes.

A reader who would enjoy Out of Darkness by Ashley Hope Pérez is likely drawn to emotionally intense, historical fiction with strong character development. Fans of The Book Thief and The Nightingale may appreciate this novel's exploration of love and tragedy amid 1930s racial tensions in Texas. Ideal for those seeking poignant, thought-provoking narratives.

In East Texas during the 1930s, Naomi Vargas and her half-siblings move to live with their stepfather, Henry, who has a history of abuse and religious fervor. As Naomi navigates school challenges and household duties, she forms a deep bond with Wash Fuller, a kind young man. The novel's climax involves a devastating school explosion and a subsequent violent confrontation, profoundly affecting their lives. Out of Darkness contains themes of sexual abuse, racism, and graphic violence.

Dark / Unnerving / Melancholic / Gritty / Emotional

- Out of Darkness received the 2016 Tomás Rivera Book Award, which recognizes works that depict the Mexican American experience.
- Ashley Hope Pérez was inspired to write Out of Darkness based on a real-life tragedy, the 1937 New London School explosion in East Texas.
- The novel has been praised for its meticulous historical research and its powerful exploration of race, love, and identity.

**Naomi Consuelo Corona Vargas**  
Naomi Vargas is a 17-year-old Mexican American woman who serves as the protagonist of the novel, taking on the role of primary caregiver to her twin half-siblings, Beto and Cari. She struggles with adversity after moving to New London, Texas, and develops a romantic relationship with Wash Fuller.

**James Washington “Wash” Fuller**  
Wash Fuller is a young Black man and the second protagonist of the novel, living in the Egypt Town section of New London, Texas. He forms a deep bond with Naomi Vargas while navigating the racial dynamics of 1937 East Texas.

**Roberto “Beto” Smith**  
Beto Smith is the introspective and sensitive seven-year-old twin half-brother of Naomi Vargas and Cari Smith, exhibiting a keen attachment to his siblings. He faces pressure from his father to conform to traditional ideals of masculinity but shows promise academically.

**Caridad “Cari” Smith**  
Cari Smith is the assertive and dominant twin sister of Beto, known for her strong-willed personality and curiosity about her family’s past. Alongside her brother, Cari adapts to life in New London while grappling with complex family dynamics.

**Henry Smith**  
Henry Smith is the antagonist of the novel, stepfather to Naomi and father to Beto and Cari. He plays a pivotal role in the family's dynamics, marked by his abusive behavior and troubled relationship with his children.

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