Leaving Tabasco: A Novel
Told in memoir format, this coming-of-age work by Mexican novelist Boullosa (They're Cows, We're Pigs) tracks Delmira from childhood through late adolescence in a small town in Mexico. Delmira's memories alternate with those of her grandmother, a tyrannical household overlord who spins magical tales of witches, revivified lizards, and a woman who dissolves into urine. Grandmother always takes Delmira's mother's side in any dispute, though the mother is ineffectual and wanton. Only Uncle Gustavo, who lives the sophisticated life in Mexico City, and the local teacher take Delmira under their wing. In the end, Delmira is arrested for distributing antigovernment leaflets and is forced to flee to Europe, never to see her hometown again. This novel is full of vivid images, and the combination of realism and folkloric magical realism serves Boullosa well until Delmira returns the narrative to the present, where she relies on sighs rather than substance. Recommended for collections strong in Latin American literature.DHarold Augenbraum, Mercantile Lib. of New YorkCopyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc.