The Last Tortilla: And Other Stories

These stories, man, I can't forget them. About time somebody was writing about poor mexicanos in a way that doesn't put us down. Everybody should read this book. Even if you aren't chicano. It gets to some very basic truths about people and survival and amor.

"The Last Tortilla and Other Stories" is a rich, poignant, truthful look at life of the poverty of Mexican/American culture along the Texas/Mexican borders. Extremely honest, the stories come to life in a splendid array of experiences melded together by various inhabitants. The tales are sometimes humorous, often brutal, always stark and honest, direct from the soul of this grand writer. Troncoso bares all with eloquence and dignity and the stories compell the reader to their pages. My only regret is I am not more prolific in Spanish, but it did not deter my fervor for these mini-masterpieces. My personal favorite was "The Albuelita," but all held my interest and my heart. Muy bien!! Mas, por favor, Mr. Troncoso. Pardon my Spanish, but your destined career is just starting!!

These stories haunt me for days on end. I find myself unable to let go of the ideas and imagery that they present. Very seldom do you see a modern writer who is so accessable, yet also makes you think.

I'm looking forward to hearing this guy read. I'm curious if his speaking voice is as fluid with both English and Spanish as his marvelous prose. No compromises here, language is like a third character nuanced with the cultural beauty of the Southwest. My favorite piece is definitely the story A Rock Trying to be A Stone. The images are disturbing, the messages are as dangerous yet mesmerizing as a body going up in flames. (I hope I didn't give too much away here.) He must write a novel next. He owes it to us after a taste of his shorter works.

Consistently accomplished, these stories run the gamut of emotions from downright hilarious to tear-jerking tragic. You won't help but love these characters and wonder about this fascinating world of the U.S.-Mexico border. A triumph from YET ANOTHER El Paso, Texas writer.