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Queen of America
Queen of America
Author: Luis Alberto Urrea
After the bloody Tomochic rebellion, Teresita Urrea, beloved healer and "Saint of Cabora," flees with her father to Arizona. But their plans are derailed when she once again is claimed as the spiritual leader of the Mexican Revolution. Besieged by pilgrims and pursued by assassins, Teresita embarks on a journey through turn-of-the-cent...  more »
ISBN-13: 9780316187640
ISBN-10: 031618764X
Publication Date: 11/1/2011
Pages: 491
Rating:
  • Currently 4/5 Stars.
 1

4 stars, based on 1 rating
Publisher: Hachette Book Group
Book Type: Paperback
Members Wishing: 8
Reviews: Member | Amazon | Write a Review

Top Member Book Reviews

c-squared avatar reviewed Queen of America on + 181 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I didn't love this book as much as it's predecessor, The Hummingbird's Daughter, but it was still very good. It's just such a different book; where HBD was the epitome of magical realism, QoA is more historical fiction. Perhaps that difference is due to being set in the U.S. instead of Mexico, or to Teresita growing up, or to the increased historical material.

The first third or so of QoA moves very slowly, reflective of how Teresita's life is just treading water at that point, trying to keep ahead of assassins sent by the Mexican government and trying to coexist with her father, Tomas, who has given up everything for her and whose resentment is growing. There are a few bait and switch moments in this first part that add a little excitement, but overall it was almost painfully slow at times...especially since I read this immediately after HBD.

Then things pick up speed and (for Teresita) spin out of control, forcing Teresita away from her home and family. Overall, this book made me really sad -- Teresita lost so much, including herself. Knowing she was a real person just makes it that much sadder.
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