Mr. Spic Goes to Washington

by Ilan Stavans, Roberto Weil (Illustrator)

In the face of social inequalities, sometimes strength for mobilization can be found through laughter. It is this ethos that Ilan Stavans employs in this politically minded graphic novel. Weaving humor with social commentary, Stavans tells a tale of a Latino man taking Los Angeles' mayoral office by storm — and refusing to stop there. Illustrated throughout by Roberto Weil, the story follows the life and political development of Mr. Spic — Samuel Patricio Inocencio Cárdenas — as he upends the political machine by owning up to and embracing his rough-and-tumble past, refusing to bend to corporate pressures, and using his influence to promote pacifism and tolerance. Progressive politics has always moved forward with the help of dedicated, singular individuals, and Mr. Spic — light-hearted as his story may be — hilariously exemplifies that model.

Genres: Graphic Novels

112 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2008

About the author

Ilan Stavans is the Lewis-Sebring Professor in Latin American and Latino Culture at Amherst College. An award-winning writer and public television host, his books include Growing Up Latino and Spanglish. A native of Mexico City, he lives in Amherst, Massachusetts.

Reviews

[Will · Rating 1 out of 5]

Started off well but not long into it the writer decided to go all PC and I found myself suddenly being lectured to for the rest of the book. Which is too bad because the book showed a lot of promise at the start.