If I Survive you – Jonathan Escoffery

If I Survive You by Jonathan Escoffery is a critically acclaimed debut that masterfully weaves together a series of interconnected stories about a Jamaican-American family navigating life in Miami. The novel primarily follows Trelawny, the youngest son of parents who fled political turmoil in Jamaica for the promise of a better life in the U.S. However, growing up in 1970s and 1980s Miami, Trelawny constantly struggles to find his place—within his family, within his community, and within a country that often refuses to see him as fully American.

As he wrestles with questions of race, identity, and economic hardship, Trelawny is forced into a series of desperate choices—taking odd jobs, enduring family tensions, and facing the brutal realities of survival. Through dark humor and razor-sharp storytelling, Escoffery paints a vivid picture of the immigrant experience, the pursuit of the elusive American Dream, and the sacrifices one makes to carve out a future. Perfect for fans of The Nickel Boys and Black Cake, this novel is a must-read for those who enjoy deeply personal, yet universally resonant, narratives.