Shadowed Lives: Undocumented Immigrants in American Society

This is one of the finest pieces of anthropological literature that I've had the pleasure to read -- Chavez's coverage of the topic is more in-depth than anything I've found elsewhere -- he has given us a glimpse into a world that very few Americans every actually witness, even though it is all around them, and their comforts and conveniences are available in large part as a result of it. I cannot recommend this book highly enough -- you won't find this information anywhere else, other than talking to the immigrant workers themselves.

Anthropologist Leo Chavez presents a very descriptive and detailed account that takes readers into the lives and experiences of illegal immigrants living and working in the farms and orchards of San Diego County. Chavez avoids the technical and complex jargon so common among contemporary audiences, so this book will be readable by anyone. Detailed accounts are given concerning peoples' decisions to migrate, their experiences of crossing the border and living in the United States without documentation. Although the entire book is great, the best chapter by far is the Epilogue, where the author contextualizes the lives of undocumented immigrants within the larger political and social environment that has recently sought to crack down on illegal aliens. This book is important reading for anyone with an interest in illegal immigration and the experiences of people who have actually crossed the border. I strongly recommend reading this book along with watching the great 1983 film "El Norte."

Chavez provides a clear unbiased look at the harsh and often dangerous life of undocumented immigrants mainly in Southern California. Chavez engages the reader through accurate portrayals of people who remain on the fringes of American society for fear of deportation. Their stories are moving; their tenacity amazing. North American readers will be reminded of just how protected and sheltered they are by the virture of living in America. A must read for anyone trying to understand the complexities of illegal immigration or in the postion to make policy on the topic.