Working in the Dark: Reflections of a Poet of the Barrio

by Jimmy Santiago Baca, Adan Hernandez (Illustrator)

Baca passionately explores the troubled years of his youth, from which he emerged with heightened awareness of his ethnic identify as a Chicano, his role as a witness for the misunderstood tribal life of the barrio, and his redemptive vocation as a poet.

Genres: Memoir, Poetry, Biography, Nonfiction

182 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 1991

About the author

Jimmy Santiago Baca of Apache and Chicano descent is an American poet and writer.

Reviews

[Kah Peh · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first intro to Jimmy. Recommended to me by a bike messenger I knew in the 90's (damnit, Brad where are you so I can thank your cool pony-tailed ass....) Jimmy, you speak to me, I don't know how, but its eerie and you probably need to knock it off. I have a book that my family had autographed for me at a reading in Colorado and I also saw you in person in San Francisco (you were checking the fights and sat behind me before your reading), that said, I do prefer your poetry to story writing so far. Prove me wrong.

[Jenaro · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing read. A true American story. This was one of my first books I read when I became I bookaholic (been on the wagon for the last 12 years, thank you very much)and it made me want to become a writer myself. Baca is a true testament to literature. It really saved his life and you see that in his writing.

[booklady]

Mary Alice says, "Hey all, I discovered this guy in my masters writing program. He's great. He was in jail and practically illiterate and taught himself how to read and write."

[Carlos Heredia]

A memoir from a barrio writer who has oversome tremendous obstacles, broken down many doors and challenged attitudes and social forces that stood in his way. Many interesting observations about the history of Chicanos and their relegation to oblivion. A continuing search for justice. A helluva story!

[Mary Alice · Rating 5 out of 5]

I discovered this in my master's program. Absloute gem of a book.

[Maribel]

raw, riveting, emotional book

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

Didn't read much before this book. It was a gift from my school counselor. I've been reading ever since. Thanks Mr. Saucedo!