Piece Comment

Review of Dominican Republic


What is life like in the bustle of New York City versus the more laid back life of the Dominican Republic? In particular what is it like for a teenager straddling both places? Angely gives us a portrait of her struggle to identify with her homeland of NYC and her ancestral homeland of DR. The Dominican Republic seems to have a stronger family culture, a less hectic pace and wonderful sandy beaches and clear water. Most of us know NYC as least from the movies, with its frenzied pace and endless landscape of concrete, brick and steel.

I like this story for the intimacy and narrative. She also has good interviews and uses the interviews and music well to help the flow of the story. It's also good to hear why she wants to stay in NYC. Her voice is pleasant and engaging.

I would have to liked to hear more from Angely about her impressions of NYC. Is there a strong community of ex-pats from the DR in NYC? How does she identify with NYC? I also thought it would have helped to move up the portion about why her family came to NYC and why they stayed. I felt this was an open question for too long in the story.

This would work well for a drop in piece for the weekend magazines, Day to Day or Weekend America. It would also work on Latino USA. Consider packaging a few of the Radio Rookies pieces together for a strong half-hour segment.