Among the Volcanoes

ISBN: 0525673326

Author: Castaneda, Omar S.

Condition: Used

Product DescriptionWhen her mother becomes ill, Isabel, a Mayan girl living in contemporary Guatemala, must care for her and continue her search for her own identity in a world fraught with upheaval and changeFrom Publishers WeeklyIn Guatemala, life is both simpler and harder for teenagers than in the U.S. Isabel Pacay wants to go to school and become a teacher, but not only is her family very poor, no one in the village, not even her boyfriend, seems to see beyond tradition. When her mother becomes ill, Isabel is expected to stay home, take care of the family and give up her dreams. With the help of an American medical researcher, however, Isabel finds the courage within herself to do what she believes is right. More than anything, the novel offers a quietly realistic portrait of life in Central America: the poverty, ever-present political unrest and proud cultural background make Isabel's dilemma compelling. Ages 12-up.Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.From School Library JournalGrade 7-12-- The story of Isabel Pacay and of Guatemala, a country torn by internal conflicts. As Mayan Indians living in this rapidly changing and often dangerous society, the Pacays attempt to reconcile ancient beliefs and social values with modern Christianity, education, and evolving attitudes about women. Isabel, the oldest child, wants to be a teacher as well as a wife and mother, a combination that is unheard of in her village. Other events emphasize the conflict between the old and new ways of life. Due to the unstable political conditions, some local men have "disappeared," been killed, or been taken prisoner. Isabel's father tells his family the safest course is to say nothing to any stranger. When the folk healer cannot cure her mother's illness, however, Isabel longs to talk to a young American who has come to the village offering medical assistance. Castaneda does not sensationalize the dangers the Parays face daily; instead, their fear is depicted as just another part of their lives. Isabel is a multifaceted character, a smart girl who respects and cares for her family, but also one who wants more for herself. Although her culture is different from the typical American's, readers will readily relate to the universal feeling of not fitting in. An excellent introduction to the Guatamalan/Mayan lifestyle, especially if used with nonfiction titles such as Ashabranner's Children of the Maya (Dodd, 1986), and Jenness and Kroeber's A Life of Their Own: An Indian Family in Latin America (Crowell, 1975). --Lucinda Snyder Whitehurst, County of Henrico Public Library--Fairfield Area Library, Richmond, VACopyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.