Living Beyond Borders

August 9, 2021
In this enriching anthology, editor Longoria opens with an impassioned note, sharing how she wants each contribution “to educate others and celebrate the beauty and uniqueness of the Mexican American culture.” Featuring a diverse array of short stories, personal essays, poems, and comics from 19 creators of Mexican American descent, the collection invites readers to “see a side of life, inside culture, that is not often portrayed in the media.” Though each offering has merit individually, the anthology’s kaleidoscopic range of identities and viewpoints shines especially bright. Third-person short stories center queer teens grappling with identity and attraction in “The Body by the Canal” by David Bowles and “Coco Chamoy y Chango” by e.E. Charlton-Trujillo, while expressive b&w comics focus on Mexican storytelling and myth in “Tell Me a Story/Dime un cuento” and “La Llorona Isn’t Real” by Xavier Garza. Vivid, emotionally rich imagery distinguishes first-person poems “Ode to My Papi” by Guadalupe García McCall and “La Migra” by René Saldaña. Longoria’s careful curation imbues a fuller understanding of Mexican American experiences. Ages 12–up. Agent: Andrea Cascardi, Transatlantic Agency.