Class suggestions

[Jeff]

I am taking a group of high school students on a field trip for 3 weeks to the Yucatan Peninsula. These are motivated, academically-talented kids. Any suggestions on a few books of literature from the region that are "must-reads" for these students?
Jeff

[Logan]

Hi Jeff,

I'd definitely recommend "Men of Maize" by Miguel Angel Asturias. Also anything by Carlos Fuentes is good. For some first person perspective on the Spanish conquest of Mexico I'd recommend "A True History of the Conquest of New Spain" (or at leasts excerpts of it) by Bernal Diaz del Castillo. "I, Rigoberta Menchu" is an interesting read as well, although there's much speculation about the verity of much of the work. Nevertheless it provides an interesting glimpse into the life and struggles of the Mayans living under the Guatemalan military dictatorship in the second half the 20th century. If I think of some other good reads I'll make sure to write. Have a great trip!

Logan

[[deleted user]]

Looks like I missed this one, but for next time, Collapse by Jared Diamond has an interesting section on the Yucatan.

[Clementadutwum]

"I, Rigoberto Mensch" is an interesting read as well, although there's much speculation about the verity of much of the work. Nevertheless it provides an interesting glimpse into the life and struggles of the Mayans living under the Guatemalan military dictatorship in the second half the 20th century. If I think of some other good reads I'll make sure to write. Have a great trip!

[Jessica]

'I, Rigoberto Menchu' is the title.