Say Hello to My Little Friend: A Novel by Jennine Capo Crucet

"Say Hello to My Little Friend" by Jennine Capó Crucet is a darkly comic novel set in the vibrant and sinister backdrop of Miami. Failed Pitbull impersonator Ismael Reyes, known as Izzy, dreams of becoming the King of the 305, despite living in his aunt's garage and facing legal trouble from Pitbull's team. Determined to emulate Tony Montana from "Scarface," Izzy's absurd quest leads him to an encounter with Lolita, a captive orca at the Miami Seaquarium.

As Izzy's story unfolds, the novel delves into surrealism and explores themes of identity, legacy, and the forces of nature. Lolita's presence permeates the narrative, symbolizing the power and dangers of the environment. From Miami's sinking streets to Izzy's memories, the city's magic and menace are vividly depicted.

The novel becomes a super-saturated fever dream, reflecting the sprawling and surreal nature of the Magic City itself. Izzy's journey is intertwined with the truth of his escape from Cuba, forcing him to confront the absence of love and the pursuit of a tragic inheritance.

With sharp wit and fearless storytelling, Crucet crafts a daring and heartbreaking narrative that challenges conventions and pushes boundaries. "Say Hello to My Little Friend" is a masterclass in pace and precision, evoking laughter and tears while reckoning with the complexities of human nature and the world around us. As Izzy's story unfolds against the backdrop of Miami's marvelous and sinister magic, readers are taken on a wild and unforgettable journey of self-discovery and redemption.