‘Madre and I’ by Guillermo Reyes

Posted on August 11, 2010 by Charles Rice-Gonzalez in Bio/Memoir, Reviews

Guillermo Reyes’ smart, gentle memoir, Madre and I, deftly braids together the story of the author’s mother, who emigrates from Chile to the U.S., with his own story of growing up in both countries. Maria Cacares comes to America, like most immigrants, full of hopes, dreams and plans to make a better life for herself. Through a connection with a friend, she lands in Washington, D.C. and becomes a cleaning woman. Maria soon sends for Guillermo and they live the immigrant life in America – working long hours, learning English, and for Maria, becoming an American citizen. (more…)

‘Nothing Pink’ by Mark Hardy

Posted on July 29, 2010 by Charles Rice-Gonzalez in Fiction

Nothing Pink is a touching and poignant young adult novel that will appeal to teen readers and anyone who can recall the passion and conflicts of first love.  Vincent, the preacher’s son, meets Robert and his prayers are answered.  The two boys quickly connect, but their love slowly unfolds.

They are brought together by a neighbor’s horse named Happy, for which Vince has been left in charge while its owner is away. Vincent and Robert spend lazy summer afternoons riding Happy bareback, exploring fields, swimming and inching closer together each day. (more…)