Customer Reviews

From Out of the Shadows: Mexican Women in Twentieth-Century America

5 star:		(0)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

The information is priceless as a sort of reference-compendium and salute to Latina and Mexicana immigrants. A good chunk is dedicated to a case analysis of a Protestant social service mission working in a Texas community to imprint anglican values and culture on the new immigrants. Another dedicated cultural aspect explores the affect of Americanization on young unmarried women and the system of chaperoning stemming from the honor of the family having to be upheld by orthodox views of virginity. The book is inspiring in its scope but meanders a bit excitedly like a river through early immigration, americanization and chicana feminism. Starts off slow and nurturing upon each theme but gradually erodes into a more sporadic form.

I had to read this book of a "women in American history class." The first book we read was not bad, but this one just went on and on! I am a religious studies/anthropology major, so I am not unaccustomed to this type of book. But I found this one to be very dry and very boring. It did pick-up a bit in the middle, but by the end I was forcing myself to keep my eyes open so I could finish it. Also the afterward changes based on what edition you have so be careful you are getting what you want (if you want it.) I would never wish this book upon anyone, and I will be adding that to my teacher evaluation.

The theme is interesting, although unsubstantiated and weak. For centuries, Mexican-American women have silently been shaping the cultural and economic development of the Southwest. These women have raised children who have integrated into the US culture, worked, built networks. Their efforts have helped Mexican Americans find their own place in America. However, this book does not do the justice it probably had the intentions on doing. The strong aspect of the book is the distinctive culture that has slowly gained momentum in the last Century. Either the strength just isn't there, or this author was not able to accurately portray it.