Growing up the seventh of eight children in Boston's Cathedral Projects, Dr. Gerardo Gauthier-Zayas learned to read a room before he learned to read a book. This is the true story of the family, the faith, and the silence he carried, and the years it took him to finally set it down.
Buy Now
At 629 Harrison Avenue, in the brick rowhouses of the Cathedral Projects, faith, family, and machismo were as certain as the church bells down the block. There was a right way to grow up Puerto Rican, Catholic, and a boy in Boston’s South End. Gerardo was never quite sure he fit inside it.
629 is the story of that childhood: the mothers who watched every kid on the block, the church that shaped every rule, the AIDS crisis that turned quiet fear into something sharper, and the earring that nearly gave him away at fifteen. It is also the story of a father who ruled through fear and, decades later, chose his son’s husband as family before he died.
This memoir is not a tidy arc from struggle to triumph. It is a record, chapter by chapter, of what it costs to hide the truest parts of yourself, and what it takes to finally stop.
Every reader brings their own story to a book like this one. If 629 stayed with you, Gerardo would love to hear how, and may feature select reflections on this page.
629: A First Generation Tale in America is available directly through this site. This shop will grow over time to include companion toolkits, workbooks, and merchandise.
A first-generation tale of identity, family, belonging, and the experiences that shape a life in America.
629 is Part One of a planned three-part memoir. Part Two, 540: A First Generation Tale in America, continues the story into young adulthood, love, and self-acceptance.
This memoir includes references to childhood trauma, family conflict, and themes related to sexuality and identity.
The journey of 629: A First Generation Tale in America continues beyond the page.
Monday, October 19, 2026 • 6:00–7:00 p.m. EST
Book tour details will be announced during the Live Online Book Launch on Monday, October 19, 2026, from 6:00–7:00 p.m. EST.
Join us for this special online event as we celebrate the release of 629, explore the stories and themes of:
Resilience • Connecting • CommunityWe will also share what comes next, including the first details about the 629 Book Tour.
Click the registration link below and share your name and email address. Registered guests will receive information on Friday, October 16, with details about how to join the live event on October 19.
