Historical Dictionary of U.S. Latino Literature

This recent new release in the publisher's ‘Historical Dictionaries’ series surveys Latino literature, which the authors represent as foundational to the study of American literature. Authors Urioste and Villaseñor, and Lomelí offer detailed entries on seminal Latino writers past and present. In addition, they include a useful chronology, an introduction, and a robust bibliography divided into two sections that focus on individual writers and criticism of those key writers. Their book is impressive in its scope and breath, and makes an important gesture to include pre-Columbian sources and references to such figures as the Aztec poet Nezahualcóyotl. Also striking is the depth of most entries, which offer a nuanced historical context. The work is a well-organized and thoroughly conceptualized practical guide to the writers and their critics. It would make a useful companion to undergraduate or graduate courses in Chicano and Latino studies, but it is also a critical reference work for libraries and individuals to own. Summing Up: Highly recommended. All levels of students through researchers/faculty; general readers. * CHOICE *