Book Of Unknown America Analysis

America, the land of opportunities and freedom, well, as long as you were born here. Unfortunately, society has developed a suppressive culture that smoothers the traditions and lifestyles of any person that crosses our border. The Book of Unknown Americans, by Cristina Henríquez, follows the lives of various Hispanic people as they divulge their stories of how they entered the land of the free. Each character provides a new perspective to a subject that is considered extremely controversial. Through characters eyes, Henríquez illuminates a cancerous issue that is quickly overcoming our nation.
Often times, the things that are unknown tend to be the most terrifying. This concept applies to the Rivera family two-fold, in that they not only …show more content…
The term “Americanized” is, regrettably, becoming extensively more popular among this society. It is used in reference to food, language, and even sacred traditions treasured by the cultures they were derived from. As a nation, the need for ownership is out of control, and Henríquez hints at this endless times throughout her novel. Towards the beginning of the book the Rivera family was searching for food when they stumbled upon a small gas station. Distraught about their recent move, they clung to any object that reminded them of home. Unfortunately the only Hispanic item they could find they referred to as, “American Salsa.” As this scene progressed it is clear that they have yet to meet their most daunting challenge, language. Struggling to simply pay for his food Arturo became frustrated with his lack of understanding. It was obvious that he wanted to comprehend, but lacked the knowledge to do so. This is what the American nation forgets to consider. Society often shuns those who are unfamiliar and have yet to assimilate, instead of assisting them in the process. However, she does give credit to the few who wish to make this transition easier for families. For example, Everett, Maribel’s new school provided a translator, so that the family could communicate with the school without fear of …show more content…
The alteration of ideas is a negative spin on the incorporation of ideas. One involves loss and gain, while the second results in mutual gain. She gave a voice to those who often are victim of this loss, and are drowned out by the opinions of society. Through this she was able to provide an entirely new perspective to this highly debated matter. With these different viewpoints available, there is no valid reason someone should feel unwelcome in a country that boasts of its freedom and wealth of