QUEEN OF AMERICA

In the sequel to his bestselling novel THE HUMMINGBIRD'S DAUGHTER, author and narrator Luis Alberto Urrea offers another enjoyable performance. The story centers around Urrea’s great aunt, Teresita, dubbed the Saint of Cabora, who narrowly escapes her enemies in Mexico. Once she’s in the U.S., her life becomes fraught with more turmoil, forcing her to flee Arizona for California, where she hopes to be left in peace to continue her healing practices. Urrea’s narration is engrossing. Without fuss or flash, he brings credibility to Teresita; her father, Tomás; and her brutish husband, Rodriguez, as well as to dozens of secondary characters, each of whom takes on a life of his own. This latest episode in Urrea’s family saga offers an irresistible blend of history, mysticism, and humanity. S.J.H. © AudioFile 2011, Portland, Maine [Published: DECEMBER 2011]