A walk in different shoes . . .

What do I really know about modern-day life in Mexico? I have vacationed in a couple of resort towns -- I have read headlines about the effect of NAFTA and other USA economic policies on business, agriculture, and so on, and about how "they" all want to come to the United States for jobs -- and "they" take unfair advantage of our social services and education, but refuse to learn English. All the usual prejudicial statements. This novel immersed me into the realities of daily life in a small southern Mexican coastal town -- one which has been abandoned by most of the men (who have gone north to find work), leaving the women, children, and old men to be harrassed by banditos. These thugs have invaded the town, taking over the home of the wealthiest resident, eating food without paying, and generally creating an unsafe living environment. Nayeli, who works at a diner and also runs the projector at the local movie theater, is inspired by The Magnificent Seven, and she decides to go north to Los Angeles to recruit seven "soldiers" to come back and protect the town. And, by the way, she plans to take a side trip to Kankakee, Illinois, to find her father and bring him back home. Two of her girl friends and Tacho, the gay owner of the diner, come along.

The novel provides a look into life at the border -- the poverty and crime among the hopeful border-crossers, who are victimized by those charging large amounts for minimal service -- the garbage dump in which many unsuccessful crossers and other homeless people have settled -- the wealth and privilege of others -- the nightlife peopled with both Mexicans and Americanos who have no trouble returning back to their homes in the United States . . .

This is a book of adventure and humor, as well as an immersion into a culture both foreign and familiar. A lot of Spanish dialogue is scattered throughout -- some of which I could figure out in context, while some passages went right over my head (but Spanish readers would no doubt love these parts!) Although not one of my favorite books of the year, I AM glad I read it, and recommend it to the extent of 3 out of 4 stars.