Customer Reviews

Chicken Soup for the Latino Soul: Celebrating La Comunidad Latina

5 star:		(24)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

Not having read a book from the Chicken Soup series before, I was not quite sure what to expect from Chicken Soup for the Latino Soul. However, knowing the great work of Susan Sánchez-Casal, I did not hesitate to purchase this literary treasure. I felt really involved in each story; the characters, their relationships with loved ones, and their emotional, spiritual and intellectual journeys. A few of my favorites were: "Things I Learned from my Mother," by Sylvia Rosa-Casanova, "Every First Friday," by Alejandro Díaz, and "Lavender Roses," by Caroline C. Sánchez. I also really enjoyed "Child of The Americas," by Aurora Levins Morales; she does a great job of deconstructing her identity as a Latina. This book is a treasure on my bookshelf, and I find myself going back to re-read certain stories, as their lessons prove to be invaluable in my own life's journey. I give many thanks to the contributing authors for sharing their experiences in such a powerful and moving way.

I want to give the book a standing ovation. I would give more than five stars if I could. Soup books are always great, but it's rare to find a book where every single story grabs your imagination and tweaks your heart. My favorite story is Hunger. I think I had that same kind of hunger when I was a kid, and reading that story finally satisfied it. Man, how I cried with tears of joy when I read it. And that was just one of the great stories in Latino Soul. I didn't read one that I didn't love. I have read this book cover to cover, TWICE. I have bought books and given them to everyone in my family, because I want people to read this book. Every story in this book has a special message that speaks straight to your heart and straight to your life. Not only that, the stories are all so beautiful, whether they make you laugh till you cry or just cry. There's definitely a special ingredient here: the latino soul. And it is beautiful.

It was a gift from all the talented writers that gave of themselves so that we, the reader could indulge in some nostalgia, emotion, gentle and sweet, while we were taken to some places in our minds, where memories lie dorment. And just as quick, our memories were awakened by the written word, twisting, to create simple pictures of days gone by. These were times of joy, tradgedies, accomplishments, strengths and hope. The latin soul was celebrated and I thank the wonderful writers from all the corners of the country who were published for us. A special thank you to my sister Angela V. R. for her story that reminded us that bilingual education is one means to reduce unecessary mental anguish upon those who enter the school system to learn the English languague, where one can develope and grow with their self esteem and confidence intact. Her story was a celebration of survival by those of us who endured the "only" English policy, which was taught to us in the schools and took us to life's paths that had to have built character in us as we learned to see the brighter side of humiliation.

As a contributor I am very reluctant to post this review and risk being viewed as immodest, but since others far braver than I have traverse gingerly and with much style I have been inspired to do the same. I think the book is wonderful and I'm really enjoying reading the stories on the commute to work everyday. The stories are so heartwarming and reflective of so much talent in our community. My wife was reading one of the stories, "Mama Can't read" the other night as I was watching TV next to her and all of the sudden she burst into tears. She was so moved and I think that is indicative of the power of the book. So to my fellow contributors and the great folks at Chicken Soup un aplauso, and for those of you who are thinking of buying the book, my bias notwithstanding, do it! You won't be disappointed.

The Chicken Soup for the Soul Series has left footprints in the hearts of many. It has given us the privilege of closing our eyes and reliving the special moments that have remained captured like photographs in the photo albums of the authors' souls. Chicken Soup for the Latino Soul gives re-awakens the connection between us Latino/as through the intricate understanding and appreciation of the struggles, tears, and laughter that are unique to the Latino experience. It warmed my heart just as much, if not more, than an old-fashined Sopa de Pollo.

I don't know what I expected from this book, but whatever it was it was greatly exceeded. Many of the stories brought tears to eyes.Some brought smiles, and others brought a knowing nod.

I was so impressed by the stories and so many of the authors. Once again, despite language difficulties, cultural gaps, racial problems, and other misunderstandings La Raza has risen to the occasion.

Muy bien hecho, bravo.

The book is a wonderful sampling of the types of Latino life that exist in the US today. The stories range from first generation Latinos talking about their struggles integrating to third generation Latinos talking about rediscovering thier roots. The stories are touching and funny. What I like most is how these people used hardship and struggle to open their hearts and be more compassionate or forgiving or loving. That messages comes across whether you are Latino/a or not.

A great book. Highly recommended.

I am so glad this installment of the Chicken Soup for the Soul series came out. It's about time!!! It was great reading stories about Latinos across the U.S. who, although different, have so much in common like our love of our heritage, learning experiences in a foreign country, striving for a better life, meddling relatives etc... The stories evoke a range of emotions from pride to embarrassment, sorrow to joy, laughter and tears. You'll definitely be able to identify to the people and their stories even if you're not Latino. Check it out. You'll be glad you did.

I love all the stories and the different themes and perspectives. There's something for everybody. I like the way that there's Cuban, Mexican, Puerto Rican and Dominican authors, and even a few who don't seem to be Latino. In my family we are all reading it, and everyone has a different favorite, everybody has something they identify with or something that makes them laugh or cry. For me I love the book because it's the first time I read something that shows how Latino people deal with everyday life, and how we get through things by using humor and faith and a positive perspective. I've never read anything like this before, and I'm glad that my children have the chance to read about people like their family. Every story is wonderful. Thank you for this book.

I've loved every story I've read in this book. My favorite so far is "Titi Flori's Pasteles-Maker Machine." Any boricua who has tried to buck the wisdom of the elders by using modern technology to make traditional Puerto Rican dishes has got to read this story! The stories in the book are varied--everything from confronting discrimination to surviving breast cancer, and the life lessons that go along with it--, and there's something for everyone. The book is in English but I also like the way that Spanish is weaved throughout, whether in the quote that starts the story, or in an unexpected moment in the story itself. It makes me feel at home. I really recommend that you get Latino Soul. It's a book that makes me proud to be Latina. I never knew there were so many talented Latino writers out there!