ChUSMA's Rating System

Prison Writings

by: Leonard Peltier

Leonard Peltier, indigenous community activist, U.S. political prisoner, and inspiration for many, has been incarcerated for a crime he did not commit for going on 25 years. Falsified evidence, coerced witnesses, and brutality lie among the larger project that framed him in the 1970's. 

Even though it is now known that he did not commit the murders he was initially convicted of he remains in prison. This book is his story, in his words where he speaks of his and his people's situation in America. 

It was a humbling experience to read this book because it gives a first hand account of the man behind the slogan, "Free Leonard Peltier." It speaks of the reality of injustice; one which takes place everyday against indigenous peoples of Turtle Island, in prisons, and against Leonard Peltier. Once I picked up this book I could not put it down. I would recommend for all to read this book for themselves and learn from the journey Peltier has taken while upon this mother earth. The justice system of this country is not one which necessarily sides with justice and Peltier's life is but one example of the many "innocent" or just people who have been forced to witness this reality. 

In America, we need to know and understand that injustices like this have taken place and are still taking place. There are more than 2 sides to each story, there are countless and many important aspects to take into account of every historical event we have learned about in our history courses. Our teachers many times out of lack of knowledge, time, care, or even ignorance have not been able to give us and other students anything but the history in the books; which for the most part have been written by the 'victors'.  History is not one-sided, it is not only black and white but also red, yellow, brown, gender-related...we could go on and on even breaking those labels down. 

Other recommended history to learn of in order to gain a more intimate understanding of this particular period and struggle include: Anna Mae Aquash, AIM (American Indian Movement), Cointelpro, the taking of Alcatraz, Brown Berets, Black Panthers, Chicano Moritorium (August 29th,1970), Ruben Salazar, the poverty and realities faced by people of color and working class during this time and today, the list goes on and on.

Harvest of Empire

by: Juan Gonzalez

This book examines migration from Latin America into the U.S. It is an analysis on the push-factors which contribute to the growing Latino population in the United States. It gives an interesting and necessary historical context to the migration of our peoples into the U.S. Gonzalez accomplishes this by going into individual stories from families and people in different Latin American countries. 

In the United States historically and in the present we can hear rhetoric of the "immigration" (more like migration) debate over and over again but it always fails to truly get into the economic, political, social, and urgent realities of why people come to these lands. Gonzalez provides many of these perspectives in this book; his writing travels from the Caribbean, through Central America, Mexico, the US and beyond.  What is truly important about this book is that it shows the direct connection between United States policy toward Latin America and its migration into the U.S. Using different examples and experiences from many countries this point is proven over and over again. The ego and greed which so many times manifests itself in United States economic and political policy towards (in this case) Latin America is the link that has led to the growing migration of our gente into the U.S. Gonzalez connects migration patterns within the context of neo-liberalism. 

This is a very interesting book with many facts and historical anecdotes you may not find in your usual history book.

Bless Me, Ultima

by: Rudolfo Anaya

Anaya's novel is full dreamy mythical realism. The characters are wrapped in a blanket of prose and play in a background of rich simmering magic.  This book is a must for all our born again Chicanos. Anaya should be one of the most celebrated "poets of the world."  A unique and extraordinary storyteller that transcends words on paper to a world that is visual stimulating, magical, and unforgettable.

Culture Clash:

Life, Death, and Revolutionary Comedy

by: Culture Clash

Finally, after 15 years Culture Clash comes out with their first book. This book is a must own for those of you teatristas or anyone who wants to laugh up a storm. Read a play in one sitting and it will take you on a visual trip. Guys, when are you going to publish Carpa Clash?

Take the Rich Off Welfare

by: Mark Zepezauer & Arthur Naiman

Do not be caught in an argument about welfare until you have read this book. The truth is that billions of dollars are wasted on fraud, social security, tax inequities, the S&L bail out etc. You will find out why education and health care are not for free.

Ernesto Che Guevara:

The Motorcycle Diaries

by: Che

For you gente that want to know how Che started developing his revolutionary mind. His trip around South America was an eye opener.  I'm sure today things are even worse. This book reminds me of a Jack Kerouac novel, but Argentina style.

Choy Li Fut: Kung-Fu

by: Master Doc Fai Wong & Jane Hallander

This introductory Kung Fu book gives you an insight of this dynamic martial art that descended from the monks of Shaolin and that was learned by the triad rebels against the Ching dynasty.  An excellent multiple fighting style.   Choy Li Fut Heavy Bag routine is a great work out, and gives you an inside look of the application behind the form.  Train with a partner.

Teatro Campesino:

Theater in the Chicano Movement

by: Yolanda Broyles-Gonzalez

This book es "el bomb."  It documents the influences, beginnings and struggle of the Teatro Campesino from the fields to the carpa to the people and to the mainstream stage.  It tells the story of the origins of el teatro chica-nahua through the carpa Mexicana pre-"columbian" sacred clowns, ceremony and oral history.  Check out the 20 step Maya technique.