In looking for non-fiction featuring Latinas, this was recommended by our book vendor. The description reminded me of The Murder of Helen Jewett, one of my all time favorite books, in that it was a true historical account of a woman ahead of her time, making waves in a society she didn't belong in, who needs her story told.
Maria de las Mercedes Santa Cruz y Montalvo was born in Cuba in 1789, left for Spain at age 13, and married French General Antoine Merlin making her Countess Merlin. She used her position of authority in upper class society to promote the arts--theater, music, visual, literary. Eventually she traveled back to Havana, detailing her trip and becoming an author herself.
The problem with this book, for me, was that is was name and family tree heavy in the beginning. There were soooooo many names and dates and places it was difficult to keep straight. And that point, I had no idea who Countess Merlin was or why I should even care about her story. As a result, I found myself bored and skipping details. Once I got to the "meat and potatoes", I went back to read the drier points in the beginning. I wish the author had put her accomplishments or historical significance at the forefront, so that I would WANT to know her background.
Although I was not a fan, I am glad we are able to add this to our collection and add more Latina voices to our history.
A reminder all opinions expressed on this blog and the video version of it are solely those of Mrs. W.
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