I really enjoyed this book.

I loved that it was centered on the experience of a Hispanic family from New Mexico -- a family descended from settlers who were there from early Spanish colonization, and that it talked about how even though Margaríta's ancestors had been living in the United States before New Mexico became a state, they are alienated because of their language and cultural heritage. The incidents surrounding having ancestors who fought in the Western battles of the Civil War were particularly interesting. Set in the 1930s, it's also a wonderful portrait of a frontier town, and of the ways people live in small communities.

I loved the Spanish language sayings throughout, the emphasis on food and culture and holidays and the way that Margaríta eventually manages to negotiate a better friendship with her spoiled friend Evangeline. I think comparisons with Little House on the Prairie are right on the money -- it's a different time period, but the same kind of day-to-day life in the West that remains compelling because of the beautiful storytelling.

Just discovered that this is a debut novel -- really excited to see more work from this author in the future. Incredibly strong, and a lovely voice. I also love that this is based on her family's stories.

Advanced Readers Copy provided by Edelweiss. ( )

The Wind Called My Name by Mary Louise Sanchez
Literary Merit: Great
Characterization: Great
Recommend: Yes
Reading Level: Late elementary/middle school
Review: The cover of the book doesn’t do this book justice. I was surprised by a really great story of friendship and day-to-day life of a Hispanic family in the West during the Great Depression. I don’t usually read historical fiction, but I really enjoyed this book and read it almost entirely in one sitting! The story is beautifully told from the perspective of a ten-year-old girl as she is struggling to fit in after
moving from New Mexico to Wyoming, where she and her family are seen as “other.” I loved the inclusion of Spanish words and phrases throughout the book in addition to the rich cultural traditions of the family. Non-Spanish speakers don’t need to worry about not understanding as there is a glossary and pronunciation guide in the back of the book and the context of the story helps the reader to understand what was said. ( )

A young girl must work to help preserve her Hispanic family lands, and with it, her family culture and traditions.