A review by robertrivasplata
Bless Me, Ultima by Rudolfo Anaya

dark emotional funny inspiring mysterious reflective relaxing sad

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.5

Story of growing up during the 40s in a small town somewhere in the US Southwest (but not California). Being somewhere in-between is a major theme of this book. Antonio's life is somewhere in between the herders and the farmers, the town and the pastures, the Pagan and the Christian, the magical and the everyday, the Anglophone and the Spanish speaking, and of course the past and the future. The writing makes me imagine this book being read to me in a deep, grandfatherly voice, except for the children's Christmas play and Antonio's confirmation parts, which should be read by a Jean Shephard impersonator. The world of the little town is fascinating, with its people, its church, its school, and its life-giving waterways. Most of the chapters with the lakes and streams are very relaxing. Lots of ancient magic and mysticism alongside Dios, Jesus, & la Virgen. The food descriptions are very appetizing. The image of Narcisio's verdant garden is appealing. I like the chapter where the brothers run their car off the road while driving home for Christmas, and had to burn their car to stay warm until the Highway Patrolman picks them up and takes them the rest of the way home. The last chapters are sad. Glad an acequia made an appearance.