Customer Reviews

A Mexican-American Family of California: In the Service of Three Flags

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Approaching this book, I expected to find a prolonged geneological probe into the history of an old and distginguished California family, merit enough for any book. What I found, however, was that within that geneological framework has been written a superbly researched, beautifully worded history of California throughout the times traced in the book. To me, this is an extraordinarily accomplished feat, for it successfully intertwines two different disciplines into one articulate, readable, highly informative text. Even a reader with no interest in the family at hand will emerge from this book enlightened as to the varied, culturally magnificent history of this state. Geneology, per se, can be a plain discipline; history, per se, can be a plain discipline; but, mix them together with the passion and with the power of Schmal and Vo and you have pure magic. An unexpected treat, a surprise, and a highly recommended and valuable book.