Hispanic-American Writers

September 1, 2010

Gr 8 Up-This volume opens with a succinct yet thorough introduction to the historical and cultural context of eight authors. The overview explains the origins and uses of the terms Chicano, Hispanic, and Latino and sketches the histories of the nations where most Hispanic-Americans have their roots. Amend also identifies common themes in Hispanic-American literature such as language and family; however, she also notes each community's unique concerns. For example, many authors of Cuban and Dominican origins are concerned with politics because of their countries' histories of political oppression. Once this context is established, each author is introduced with a full-page black-and-white photo and a short biography. Amend then summarizes and analyzes how plot, character, and other literary elements shape each significant work. She also identifies major themes that are unique to each author. For example, she describes how Sandra Cisneros conveys Esperanza's strength and resolve in The House on Mango Street. Meanwhile, coming of age is a more significant theme in Julia Alvarez's How the Garcia Girls Lost Their Accents. The back matter includes a chronology of significant events in Hispanic-American history and in the lives of the featured authors. Amend also suggests books by other Latino writers for further reading. The book contains an extensive bibliography (including websites about Hispanic heritage and culture) and an index.-Mary Landrum, Lexington Public Library, KY

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