Synopses & Reviews
Widely considered one of the most important voices in the Chicano literary canon, José Antonio Burciaga was a pioneer who exposed inequities and cultural difficulties through humor, art, and deceptively simple prose. In this anthology and tribute, Mimi Gladstein and Daniel Chacón bring together dozens of remarkable examples of Burciagas work. His work never demonstrates machismo or sexism, as he believed strongly that all Chicano voices are equally valuable. Best known for his books Weedee Peepo, Drink Cultura, and Undocumented Love, Burciaga was also a poet, cartoonist, founding member of the comedy troupe Cultura Clash, and a talented muralist whose well-known work The Last Supper of Chicano Heroes” became almost more famous than the man. This first and only collection of Burciagas work features thirty-eight illustrations and incorporates previously unpublished essays and drawings, including selections from his manuscript The Temple Gang,” a memoir he was writing at the time of his death. In addition, Gladstein and Chacón address Burciagas importance to Chicano letters. A joy to read, this rich compendium is an important contribution not only to Chicano literature but also to the preservation of the creative, spiritual, and political voice of a talented and passionate man.
Review
Burciaga seeks the roots of his Chicano heritage in Mexico and Texas, telling todays Mexican Americans how the Chicano movement has changed their lives for the better. His personal anecdotes of growing up a stranger to both of his native lands speak to todays immigrants, especially the second and third generations.” Library Journal
About the Author
Mimi R. Gladstein's books and articles cover such diverse topics as Hemingway and Steinbeck, Ayn Rand and feminist criticism. She has served the University of Texas at El Paso as Associate Dean of Liberal Arts, Chair of the English Department, and Chair of Theatre, Dance, and Film, and was the first director of the Women's Studies Program.Daniel Chacón is the author of Chicano Chicanery and the novel And the Shadows Took Him. He teaches in the bilingual MFA program at the University of Texas at El Paso.