English 24

Other Readings and Media

We will read some of the best writers on childhood and adolescence: Sandra Cisnero�s House on Mango Street and stories from Woman Hollering Creek, Gary Soto�s Living Up the Street, and other material I will either copy or order before the term opens. We will also discuss the films �and the earth did not devour him,� based on the story by Tomas Rivera, �Mi Vida Loca,� directed by Allison Anders, �Real Women Have Curves,� and possibly �Mi Familia,� directed by Gregory Nava.

Description

We will read a small group of narratives about growing up Chicano/Latino. I believe that this is a particularly difficult time for all children as they face sexual pressure, violence, discouraging schools. By focusing on Chicano youth we will glimpse their experience as they come into sexuality and gender identity, the early formations of social identity, as they work through personal aspirations over against familial expectations and peer pressure, and how they see themselves coming into their own lives.