This book is a magical story that most familes, no matter the origin can relate too. Good for teens - seniors (all ages). Every American and especially Mexican American should read this book. It is Victor Villasenor's best book.

Amazing story, amazing writer. Fall in love with the characters and the magic in this book. If you read Roots and loved it, you will surely love this book as well. Trials and tribulations of the mexican american family, and a great love story make this a great read.

I am Mexican American, and this book was reccommended to me by an Irish friend. I felt like I was reading my own history about my own family. Yes, there are scenes of violence and illegal acts, but that is not what makes any of us proud to be Mexican American. The faith in God and in family is what makes us proud of our heritage, and this book shares that while using the sour times in life to show just how sweet the sweet can be. I cried, laughed, and felt every emotion in between. I didn't want to stop reading, and I wish the book kept going. I am now inspired to find the stories of my family, and I am prouder than ever to be of Mexican heritage. I understand my family better, and I love my grandparents even more for what they went through. Thank you, Mr. Villasenor, for sharing this story with us.

I am a 57 year old gringo living in Southern Arizona and received this book from a friend of mine who is related to the author. I did not expect much and the beginning had me wondering if I would make it through all 500+ pages of small print. It did not take very long for me to realize that this book was well above ordinary. Prior to reading this book, I personally had gotten the most enjoyment from " East of Eden " and " The Agony and The Ecstacy " and place Mr. Villasenor's novel along side both. I cried and laughed like hell and as a lifelong Catholic, was deeply moved by the incredible faith of both of his grandmothers. Some of the other reviewers were put off by his technique, I was not. I very much agree with those who found great enjoyment from this book, as I had a difficult time putting it down and experienced a real sadness as I read the final words, I did not want it to end. Mr. Victor Villasenor is one heck of a storyteller and I feel blessed to have entered into his family through his written words.

John Towle - Vail, Az.

This book was fascinating to me. It is a great depiction of historical events that I had not really known about regarding the Mexican people. It is very sad to see what an idyllic, beautiful and simple life these people had only to have it shattered by the revolution. Their beautiful and simple existence became a fight for life and a future of being treated like dirt by soldiers in their own country and by the U.S. when they tried to go someplace else. The author did a great job with imagery and emotion. I couldn't put this book down.