Margarita Longoria

About the Author

Margarita Longoria is a lifelong bookworm, book blogger, and an award-winning high school librarian in South Texas. She is the founder of Border Book Bash: Celebrating Teens and Tweens of the Rio Grande Valley and served on state reading committees for the Texas Library Association. She grew up on the Texas/Mexico border known as the Rio Grande Valley. She lives with her family in Texas.

Overview

Twenty Mexican American authors share what it is like to be a part of two worlds and not be accepted by either. Entries range from realistic fiction to fantasy and include poetry, personal narratives, and art-all of them reminding teens of the complexity of the Mexican American experience. Voices reach out from the pages of this anthology, tugging at readers and pushing them to see the difficulties and beauty of what it means to live as a Mexican American in the United States. These selections explore how it feels to be seen as "other," even while having been a part of this land for generations. The stories encourage Mexican American readers to listen to their inner voice and not let it be silenced. Each selection offers something distinct in this multifaceted work that doesn't prioritize the white gaze. It will make a lasting impression on all readers.

Authors Featured in "Living Beyond Borders: Growing Up Mexican in America"

Justine Narro

Anna Meriano

Photo Credit: Claire Morice

Available in Spanish!