Alejandro Heredia’s debut novel “Loca” has been praised as “quintessential American.” It takes place in both the Dominican Republic and the Bronx, New York, where Alejandro was shaped into the person he is today.

In this episode, Latino USA producer Reynaldo Leaños Jr. speaks with the Afro-Dominican author about his —and his family’s— migration journey to the United States, his queer awakening, and being a writer during this moment in history. They also reflect on family, grief, joy—and what it means to reclaim your story on your own terms.

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This episode was produced by Reynaldo Leaños Jr. It was edited by Andrea López-Cruzado and it was mixed by Gabriela Baez.

Photo by Demi Vera.