Hunger of Memory

Richard Rodriguez’s autobiography in English, "Hunger of Memory," is a moving account of his life as a Mexican American raised in California, from “scholarship boy” to published lecturer. It also is a powerful statement about affirmative action and bilingual education, as he experiences them.

Growing up in a bilingual setting, Richard Rodriguez, becomes keenly aware at an early age of the contrast between private home life and public school life. He quickly realizes that to be successful in one arena means isolation in the other. As his academic successes lead him to more and more public opportunities, he struggles with the simultaneous separation from his family, his culture and his past.

For anyone interested in the effects of affirmative action and bilingual education on the life of one man who lived them, this book is a must read. Mr. Rodriguez explores the ideals upon which such social institutions were based and questions the practical application of them in American society.

-Highly recommended by Liz Cleveland from AmeriSpan