Synergy: José de la Luz Sáenz

José de la Luz Sáenz (1888-1953) was a teacher, civil rights activist, and co-founder of the League of United Latin American Citizens. The published diary of his World War I observations and experiences as a Mexican-American solider has become well-known.

Read the recently published children's book on this topic, then learn more at the website:

SOLDIER FOR EQUALITY by Duncan Tonatiuh is the winner of the Pura Belpré Award and the Robert F. Silbert medal. Featuring Tonatiuh’s unique illustrations, this biographical picture book explores the life and accomplishments of José de la Luz Sáenz. This Mexican-American activist overcame prejudice to become a World War I hero and advocate for equality. The book concludes with an author’s note, timeline, bibliography, glossary, and index.

The José de la Luz Sáenz page at the Texas State Historical Association provides an in-depth examination of this author and activist.

Visit the Texas State Historical Association <https://bit.ly/37VD1gk>

ARC Courtesy of Abrams Books for Young Readers.

Book Review: Gabi, A Girl in Pieces

GABI, A GIRL IN PIECES by Isabel Quintero is an outstanding work of realistic fiction with a strong Mexican-American cultural perspective. Gabi is a typical high school senior confronting teen issues including human sexuality, drug addiction, teen pregnancy, and binge eating. The story revolves around her friendships, family, and romantic relationships.

Written as journal entries, the story unfolds in a refreshing conversational style with a spattering of Spanish, witty reflections, and a growing self-awareness connected with Gabi’s heritage and family values.

Beyond the diary format, Quintero effectively weaves the use of poetry and letters throughout the narrative making the work a distinct contribution to young adult literature.

Isabel Quintero’s first novel presents an unforgettable character that reflects an entire generation of young women coming of age. Many teens will see themselves in this honest portrayal of everyday experiences from first kisses to weight concerns. What makes this novel particularly moving is the way it so effectively conveys today’s cultures within cultures from discussions of skin color to questions about religious belief.

Quintero provides a fresh new voice in contemporary Mexican American literature. This book should be on all the Latina awards lists, but more importantly on the mainstream best of 2014 lists.

Edelweiss ARC used for review