Book overview
In the city that never sleeps, three lives collide, each searching for belonging, identity, and hope.
City Dreams: A Tale of Three Friends follows Jamal, Lila, and Sofia, three foster youth navigating the challenges of growing up in New York City while holding on to big dreams. Jamal's love of literature becomes his way forward. Lila's stories help her make sense of a life shaped by uncertainty. Sofia's art turns struggle into something powerful and visible.
When the three meet at Columbia University, their friendship transforms not only their futures but their sense of home. Together, they create a mural that captures the stories of students from every walk of life, and in doing so, they learn that healing, purpose, and leadership often begin with sharing your truth.
This powerful young adult novella by Tony Rivera, a former foster youth and educator, explores the beauty of resilience, the strength of chosen family, and the courage it takes to dream beyond your circumstances. City Dreams is both a love letter to New York and a story of hope for anyone who has ever felt unseen.
Themes:
Foster care - Resilience - Friendship - Identity - Belonging - Art & storytelling - Youth empowerment - Social change
