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499
Novel • Fiction
Mexico • 1880s
2005
Adult
18+ years
The Hummingbird's Daughter by Luis Alberto Urrea is a fictional account set in late 1800s-early 1900s México, following Teresa Urrea, a woman with mystical powers and religious fervor deemed a living saint. Raised on a ranch by Tomás Urrea after being abandoned by her mother, she learns spiritual healing from Huila, while political turmoil and Indigenous struggles against the regime of President Díaz underscore her journey. The novel explores the coexistence of Catholic and Indigenous spirituality in Mexican culture. The book includes depictions of child abuse, violence against Indigenous people, violence against women, and violence committed by an oppressive political regime.
Mysterious
Fantastical
Emotional
Inspirational
Contemplative
The Hummingbird's Daughter by Luis Alberto Urrea has been applauded for its rich historical detail and lyrical prose, vibrantly bringing to life late 19th-century Mexico. Critics appreciated the complex characters and spiritual themes. However, some found the pacing slow and the extensive detail overwhelming. Overall, it's a compelling historical novel for those patient with a slower narrative.
Readers who savor rich historical narratives and magical realism will find joy in Luis Alberto Urrea's The Hummingbird's Daughter. Fans of One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez or Like Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquivel will appreciate the profound blend of cultural mysticism and vivid storytelling.
Tomás Urrea
Teresita's father and a ranch owner who evolves throughout the story, learning about injustices and becoming protective over Teresita amid political tensions.
Huila
A wise healer and spiritual mentor to Teresita, guiding her in understanding her gifts and the cultural dynamics between Indigenous traditions and Catholicism.
Cruz Chávez
A devoted follower of Teresita and leader of a militant group, who contrasts with her peaceful teachings by advocating for violent resistance against oppression.
Lauro Aguirre
An engineer and friend of Tomás, whose political awareness and criticism of the Mexican regime offer guidance and insight into the broader political context of the era.
Lieutenant Enríquez
A representative of the Díaz regime and a friend of Tomás, caught in the conflict between his military obligations and personal loyalties.
Buenaventura
The son of Tomás and brother to Teresita, who initially resents Teresita but eventually finds a place within the family dynamics.
Loreto
Tomás’s wife whose relationship with him becomes strained due to his extramarital affairs and her demand for respect and independence.
Gabriela
A younger woman who becomes Tomás’s companion, embodying love and commitment, contrasting with the distance in his relationship with Loreto.
499
Novel • Fiction
Mexico • 1880s
2005
Adult
18+ years
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