Review by Choice Review
The diaries of shantytown dweller Carolina Maria de Jesus, who moved from the slums of Sao Paulo to the independence of her own house and back to poverty again, continue to fascinate. First published in English as Child of the Dark (1962), portions of the original diaries are here republished using Jesus's own words, taken directly from her handwritten diaries. Having gained access to this material through her daughter, the editors not only eliminate any lingering questions of authenticity but also recognize that in their first publication the diaries had been severely edited, eliminating Jesus's political views as well as her writing style. In this new offering, peppered by Jesus's staccato remarks, readers gain insight into the poetry of her soul, as well as her hard-boiled tenacity. They follow her beyond the publication of her original book and experience firsthand her physical and mental struggle, not just in the slums but also against publishers and others who would take advantage. Especially revealing are her passages on Brazilian race relations. A superb analytical afterword helps frame the issues. Read in conjunction with the original, or on its own, this book should stimulate discussion in Latin American, urban, and African American studies courses. Highest recommendation. All levels. R. M. Delson U.S. Merchant Marine Academy
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Choice Review
