Edwin Ossa
THE SECRET LIFE OF A FIRST-GENERATION LATINO GROWING UP IN NEW YORK CITY
by Edwin Ossa
This autobiographical book delves into the Latino family and culture, extending beyond the author’s personal narrative. It provides a deep exploration of Latino life’s complexities, aiming to educate American readers and confront common stereotypes.
Focusing on the Colombian experience, it unveils perspectives that are often unfamiliar to many, including insights from Colombia’s literary luminary, Gabriel Garcia Marquez.
The narrative captivates a wide audience by offering a glimpse into the Latino experience in New York City during the pivotal years of the 70s, 80s, and 90s. Presented as a historical narrative with an emphasis on social awareness, the book maintains relevance to contemporary issues and appeals to diverse cultures. It provides an honest, occasionally stark portrayal of his life in NYC, brimming with excitement, amusement, and disorder, while also delivering a story of redemption. The book intertwines robust cultural and family ties, seeking to motivate and elevate readers from various backgrounds with its theme of overcoming obstacles, achieving success, and fostering hope.
About the Author
Edwin A. Ossa was born in 1969 in Jackson Heights, Queens, New York, to Jesus Antonio Ossa and Maria Del Carmen Campo, Colombian immigrants who had been in the United States for less than a year. Jesus Antonio was undocumented at the time he met Maria del Carmen, as his travel visa had expired. Maria del Carmen was a U.S. resident, having been sponsored by a Houston, Texas family to work as a nanny. The couple married following an unplanned pregnancy. Starting school without English proficiency, Edwin's passion for reading and learning led him to excel academically. Nonetheless, he faced the challenges and adversities common to young Latinos in New York City. Edwin found inspiration in Piri Thomas's seminal novel "Down These Mean Streets" which greatly influenced his life. Edwin gained admission to Brooklyn Technical High School, one of the nation's most esteemed high schools. He proceeded to Baruch College, a highly regarded City University in New York. After college, he served as a social worker at Good Shepherd Services, aiding minority youth and at-risk children. Edwin was later accepted into St. John's School of Law, a top-tier law school in New York, known for its competitiveness nationwide. He began his legal career as a Criminal Prosecutor for the New York City Law Department, with Mayor Rudy Giuliani as his initial supervisor. Subsequently, Edwin transitioned into private practice, joining Cullen and Dykman, one of the country's oldest law firms, as an associate. Currently, Edwin is a Trial Attorney for a national insurance company, handling high-profile litigation in New York City.