Carolina Maria de Jesus
“Born illegitimate and impoverished in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais, Carolina Maria de Jesus had to overcome a series of seemingly insurmountable obstacles throughout her lifetime just to survive. During her childhood, de Jesus had few educational opportunities, taking only two years of formal schooling. As a young adult she migrated to São Paulo, South America's industrial megalopolis, where as an unemployed single parent she struggled to eke out a living for herself and her three children. Eventually, she moved into a shack in one of the city's worst favelas (slums).” - Encyclopedia.com
-------------------------------------
Child of the Dark
Carolina’s diary, Child of the Dark, is an interesting read that will keep you on your toes. The diary vividly describes the daily trials and tribulations that Carolina endures while being in the lower class, collecting paper for money, life in the favela –her shantytown, and struggling to provide for herself and her family. The diary also addresses the self-centered nature of her local government and she often says that the politicians and congress do not care about the “favelados”, or people who live in the favela. Furthermore, trauma is at the forefront of the neighborhood as Carolina and her children witness car accidents, fighting, or domestic violence almost every day. The culture and demeanor of the favela is very harsh and unforgiving. Carolina even says that she was surprised to find out that “poor people” don’t look out for their own. If you want to take a deep dive into the compelling life, culture, and struggles of a lower class, single mother in Brazil, this is your read.
--------------------------------------------------------------
Written by Kalyssa Gillespie (Class of 2026)