TL;DR
Furia by Yamile Saied Méndez tells the story of Camila Hassan, a young soccer talent in Argentina, navigating the challenges of family expectations, love, and the pursuit of her dreams on and off the field.
What is Furia about
Furia is a contemporary young adult novel set in Rosario, Argentina, centering on Camila Hassan, a 17-year-old girl who excels in soccer but struggles against familial constraints and societal expectations. Living under her father’s abusive rule and her mother’s narrow views, Camila secretly trains and plays as 'La Furia,' showcasing her immense talent on the field. Her aspirations to earn a soccer scholarship in North America are complicated by the return of her former love, Diego, who now plays for Juventus. As she fights for her dreams, Camila grapples with the pressures of her domestic life, societal norms around women's sports, and the looming issues of domestic violence and femicide, making her journey both inspiring and poignant.
Furia 6 Key Takeaways
The Dual Life of Camila
Camila Hassan balances her life as an obedient daughter at home with her identity as 'La Furia' on the soccer field, where she is a talented player dreaming of greatness.
Soccer as an Escape
Soccer becomes Camila's escape from an oppressive home life, allowing her to express her true self and pursue her ambitions despite her father's abuse.
The Challenge of Love and Dreams
With the return of Diego, Camila faces the challenge of her feelings for him while trying to maintain focus on her soccer career and personal aspirations.
Striving for Independence
Camila's determination to pursue her dreams leads her to confront her parents about her passion for soccer, highlighting the struggle for independence in a restrictive environment.
The South American Tournament
As Camila's team qualifies for a major tournament, her journey symbolizes the fight for recognition and equality in a male-dominated sport.
Facing Societal Norms
The narrative explores the societal expectations placed on women in Argentina, particularly regarding sports, domestic roles, and personal ambitions.
Top Furia Quotes
- "In the field, I am free; every kick, every goal is a testament to who I truly am."
- "I refuse to be just a shadow in my own life; I will be La Furia."
- "Dreams are like the ball; they can be kicked away or chased down—you have to choose what you want to do with them."
Who should read Furia?
Furia is aimed at young adults aged 12 and up, particularly those interested in sports, empowerment, and stories that tackle social issues. Readers can expect to gain insights into the struggles of pursuing dreams against societal and familial pressures.
Furia Best Reviews
- "A powerful exploration of ambition and resilience, Furia captures the spirit of a young woman fighting for her dreams against all odds." - BookPage
- "Méndez's writing brings the vibrant world of soccer and the deeply personal struggles of Camila to life in a way that is both engaging and heart-wrenching." - School Library Journal
- "Furia is more than a sports novel; it tackles important social issues with grace and insight, making it a must-read for young adults." - Kirkus Reviews
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Furia FAQs
Is Furia a true story?
While Furia is a work of fiction, it is inspired by true events and reflects real-life issues faced by women in sports and society.
What age group is Furia appropriate for?
Furia is suitable for readers aged 12 and up, making it an engaging read for young adults.
Does Furia address social issues?
Yes, Furia tackles important themes such as domestic violence, femicide, and the pursuit of dreams, providing a nuanced perspective on these critical topics.