61 pages • 2 hours read
The Tortilla Curtain
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Book Brief
355
Novel • Fiction
Topanga Canyon, California • 1990s
1995
Adult
18+ years
1210L
Super Short Summary
The Tortilla Curtain by T.C. Boyle contrasts the lives of two California couples: Delaney and Kyra Mossbacher, affluent and living in Arroyo Blanco, and Cándido and América Rincón, undocumented immigrants living in a canyon camp. The tale, highlighting themes like income disparity and racial tension, follows these characters as their lives intertwine, revealing the harsh realities of the American Dream. This book depicts offensive language, racism, xenophobia, and sexual assault.
Dark
Suspenseful
Gritty
Unnerving
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
35,954 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Tortilla Curtain by T.C. Boyle is praised for its compelling narrative and deep exploration of social and racial tensions in contemporary America. Critics commend Boyle's vivid characterizations and keen socio-political insights. However, some reviewers find the novel's tone didactic and its depictions of certain characters stereotypical. Overall, it's a thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read The Tortilla Curtain?
Readers who appreciate socially conscious narratives exploring immigration, class disparity, and the American Dream, akin to The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck or The Jungle by Upton Sinclair, will find T.C. Boyle’s The Tortilla Curtain compelling and thought-provoking.
35,954 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Kyra Menaker-Mossbacher
Kyra Menaker-Mossbacher
A successful real estate agent and the primary breadwinner of her family. She is married to Delaney, and they live a busy life in Southern California with their son, Jordan.
Cándido Rincón
Cándido Rincón
A hardworking and dedicated Mexican immigrant who moves permanently to the United States with his pregnant wife, América. He faces numerous difficulties while trying to gain a foothold in his new environment.
América Rincón
América Rincón
Cándido's 17-year-old pregnant wife, who symbolizes hope for a better future amid challenging circumstances. Her journey underscores the difficulties faced by immigrant women.
José Navidad
José Navidad
A threatening and mysterious figure whose interactions with the main characters create tension. His ambiguous background and menacing presence evoke fear among the characters.
355
Novel • Fiction
Topanga Canyon, California • 1990s
1995
Adult
18+ years
1210L
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