Places Left unfinished at the Time of Creation

I finished this book a couple of weeks ago (finally) so now you get to read my review (once again ... finally). On a side note, I have a new computer, A Sony Vaio. Verrrry nice. I'll let you know what I think after a little time has passed.

So, back to Places Left unfinished at the Time of Creation. It was written by a man named John Phillip Santos. First a little backstory on Mr. Santos. Way back in 2001 I was sitting in the very nice Municipal Auditorium in San Antonio at my college graduation. Our keynote speaker was John Phillip Santos. All I knew about him at that he was a writer and made documentaries ... and (the biggest thing to me) his mother was a graduate of my university. Afterall, we graduated on Mother's Day. Very appropriate, yes? At any rate, I don't remember really what he said, which is kind of sad. But I do remember at least being engaged and listening. A first for me at a graduation.

Now fast forward to the next year when I am working at a university in Austin. I saw that he was going to be on campus as a speaker. So, I said what the heck! This was my graduation keynote speaker. I found very intelligent and once again engaging. It was then I discovered the book. It is the family history of both sides of John Phillip's family. So, I bought the book and got it signed (it is inscribed "Para Tina, PAZ!"). We had a pleasant, but brief conversation about my and his mother's alma mater.

I started the book a couple of times, only to get distracted by other books. I will be the first to admit that a memoir is not my kind of book. But finally, when I made the commitment to read more, I read the whole book. And what it book it is.

John Phillip Santos explores his family's history and a very poetic voice. The poet in him is evident in every sentence. The language he uses is beautiful and flowing. But more satisfying was the story. John Phillip looks at the reasons, emotions and effects of moving north from Mexico into Texas. He searches for a past that was lost. I connected so well with his story because so many Mexican Americans have lost the stories of their pasts. He tells of curanderos, of ancient Aztec traditions, of his grandfather's suicide and so much more.

If you are a Mexican American, you should read this book. You may learn something about your own past. Maybe, even be inspired to research your family's history. If you are not Mexican American, I would hope you learn about the people who became strangers in their own land. While, for me, it was not the most heart pounding exciting read, it was certainly good one.

Last Words: It is a lovely tale, I recommend it, I own it.