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baybod's review against another edition
emotional
inspiring
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
Wow. I did not expect such a strong ending. I enjoyed the book enough throughout, but the last third was incredibly gripping. I really resonated with Antonio’s struggles with faith and his desire to believe in all that he saw was good, not just one god. I found it a satisfying resolution to this when Ultimate blesses him in the name of “all that is good and strong and beautiful,” because she seems to give validity to all of the gods he puts faith in. I also appreciated the thoughtful manner in which the book dealt with death and Antonio’s experiences with it. I think this book does an excellent job of representing a people of many beliefs and with backgrounds that lie in many traditions. Definitely a worthwhile read.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child death, Murder, Grief, and Death
Moderate: Colonisation
Minor: Vomit and Religious bigotry
meganpbennett's review against another edition
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
1.0
After moving to New Mexico, I learned about Bless Me Ultima, and it ended up on my TBR pile. I finally read it as part of both Banned Books Week celebration and Hispanic Heritage month. It was an interesting book, following the narrator, Tony, as he navigates his life after his grandmother, Ultima, comes to live with his family.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Murder, Religious bigotry, Alcoholism, Bullying, Blood, Death, Grief, Gun violence, Injury/Injury detail, Mental illness, Vomit, and Animal death
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