Elba Iris Pérez Books In Order

Publication Order of Standalone Novels

About Elba Iris Pérez

Elba Iris Pérez, a historian from Puerto Rico, has made a significant mark in the literary world. She achieved the esteemed recognition as a USA TODAY Bestselling author. Additionally, her exceptional talent earned her the honor of being the very first recipient of Simon & Schuster’s Books Like Us contest. Pérez’s remarkable achievements speak volumes about her skill and dedication.

Crafting characters and protagonists with depth is one of Pérez’s notable strengths. She skillfully creates individuals who feel real and relatable, drawing readers into her stories. This talent makes her narratives not only engaging but also deeply entertaining. Her ability to breathe life into her characters is a key reason why her books resonate so well with audiences.

Pérez’s talent lies in creating characters who are compelling and authentic. They face real challenges, have genuine flaws, and exhibit growth throughout the narrative. This realism ensures that her characters remain memorable long after the book is finished. By focusing on human experiences and emotions, Pérez crafts stories where the characters truly resonate with readers.

Through her work she also excels in weaving compelling stories with captivating plots. Her narratives are intricately designed to keep readers hooked from beginning to end. Each book presents a blend of historical accuracy with rich storytelling, making her work both informative and enjoyable. Pérez’s gift ensures that her stories are not just read but truly experienced.

Her background as a historian from Puerto Rico grounds her literary work in authenticity and meticulous research. This solid foundation in history allows her to create vividly accurate settings and storylines. Pérez’s historical knowledge adds depth to her narratives, making them both informative and compelling. Her keen attention to detail ensures that her stories are as credible as they are engaging.

Not only that, she also entertains readers globally by weaving stories that stay true to her roots. Her rich cultural background and deep historical knowledge infuse her writing with authenticity. This unique combination bridges cultures and captivates a wide audience, ensuring her stories resonate across borders. Pérez’s dedication to her heritage shines through, making her work both genuine and engaging.

Her narratives have a knack for connecting with readers everywhere, largely because she writes from the heart. Pérez doesn’t just tell stories—she shares pieces of her world. This honesty and sincerity in her writing draw readers in and keep them invested. By staying true to herself, she crafts tales that are universally appealing yet deeply personal.

It is her ability to balance entertainment with authenticity sets her apart. She manages to captivate a global readership while maintaining the essence of her Puerto Rican identity. This blend of entertainment and realness is a testament to her skill as a storyteller. Her stories thus become a delightful journey, offering entertainment that’s both meaningful and true to her heritage.

Elba Iris Pérez has undoubtedly made a significant impact with her previous works, and she shows no signs of slowing down. With her unique talents and deep passion for storytelling, readers can look forward to even more captivating tales in the future. Pérez’s dedication to her craft promises many more engaging narratives that will continue to entertain and resonate with audiences worldwide. The horizon holds exciting prospects for this exceptional author, and there’s much to anticipate from her in the years to come.

Early and Personal Life

Elba Iris Pérez’s journey as an author began in her early years spent in Woronoco, Massachusetts, and Aguas Buenas, Puerto Rico. Growing up, she would develop her budding interest in reading and writing. These formative years laid the groundwork for her lifelong passion for storytelling and history.

Her deep-seated love for literature and history guided her path to becoming a theater director, historian, and author. Pérez earned a PhD in the history of Puerto Rico from the University of Puerto Rico, enriching her understanding and love for her heritage. Her teaching stints at the University of Puerto Rico in Arecibo also offered her a solid platform to share her knowledge and inspire others.

Now residing in Houston with her husband, Pérez continues to draw inspiration from her own background and academic experiences. She is the author of ‘El teatro como bandera,’ a significant work on the history of Puerto Rican street theater. With two adult children, she cherishes creating memories with her family while continually growing and thriving as a writer.

Writing Career

Elba Iris Pérez’s career as a writer has been marked by significant achievements and recognition. She became well-known for her novel ‘The Things We Didn’t Know,’ released in 2024. This debut work would fast garner critical acclaim, highlighting her promising future in the literary world.

Pérez also earned the esteemed title of USA TODAY Bestselling author and was honored as the first winner of Simon & Schuster’s Books Like Us contest. These accolades underscored her talent and potential for continued success. With all of her remarkable achievements, Pérez shows no signs of slowing down as she continues to create captivating stories.

The Things We Didn’t Know

‘The Things We Didn’t Know,’ a stand-alone historical coming-of-age novel by Elba Iris Pérez, was published on February 6, 2024. The book was released by Gallery Books. Set during the 1950s, this publication marked Pérez’s literary debut, fast becoming a bestselling success.

Andrea Rodríguez is only nine when her mother takes her and her brother, Pablo, from their home in Woronoco, Massachusetts. With no funds or plan, she leaves them both with family living in the mountain villages of Puerto Rico, promising to return. Months later, when Pablo and Andrea return to Massachusetts, their hometown has drastically changed.

As they navigate the gap between their family’s values and American culture, they encounter both the challenges and joys of growing up.

It’s a captivating read that beautifully captures the struggles and triumphs of growing up. Pérez’s storytelling draws readers into Andrea and Pablo’s world, making their journey both relatable and heartfelt. This debut novel is a must-read for those who enjoy thoughtful coming-of-age stories. Highly recommended for an engaging and emotional experience.