A thought-provoking coming-of-age memoir about growing up brown and queer in a Southwest city invested in urban development. Raised in an adobe house built by their mother, the author takes readers to a mid-20th century barrio that existed on the social margins of Tucson, Arizona despite sitting a little more than a mile away from the central business district. Born in 1955, and nicknamed La Butch by their family, Lydia Otero knew they were queer the moment their consciousness had evolved enough to formulate thoughts.In addition to growing up fighting assigned gender expectations, a new freeway greatly influenced formative aspects of Otero's childhood. The author witnessed how the steady expansion of Interstate 10 (I-10) separated and isolated a barrio of brown and poor residents from the rest of the city. Growing up 200 feet from the freeway meant more than enduring traffic noise and sirens for barrio families. It introduced environmental hazards that contributed to the death of family members.The construction of the freeway also realigned school boundaries. Although able to attend the same schools as white children, the author details how Americanization policies and programs worked to racialize and separate brown students such as Otero as late as 1961.This book, which combines personal memoir and family history with historical archives, offers more self-disclosure than Otero's previous works, as the author's experiences of childhood take center stage. Otero reveals the day-to-day survival mechanisms they depended upon, the exhilaration of first love and the support the author received from key family members as they tried to gain a sense of belonging in a world mired in dislocation.
✔ Author(s): Lydia R. Otero
✔ Title: In the Shadows of the Freeway: Growing Up Brown & Queer
✔ Rating : 4.9 out of 5 base on (58 reviews)
✔ ISBN-10: 1734118008
✔ Language: English
✔ Format ebook: PDF, EPUB, Kindle, Audio, HTML and MOBI
✔ Device compatibles: Android, iOS, PC and Amazon Kindle
Readers' opinions about In the Shadows of the Freeway by Lydia R. Otero
Rosehannah Wilkinson
Experience a heartwarming journey of self-discovery and love in this beautifully written novel. The protagonist's struggles and triumphs are portrayed with incredible empathy. Richly developed characters and a compelling plot make the story unforgettable. The emotional depth of the narrative resonates long after the book is closed. It's a touching tale that celebrates the human spirit. Perfect for readers seeking an uplifting read.
Leeann Little
Discover the poignant story of a family navigating life's ups and downs in this moving novel. The author's empathetic writing and well-drawn characters create a deeply emotional experience. Each chapter explores themes of love, loss, and resilience with sensitivity. The plot's twists and turns keep you engaged throughout. It's a heartwarming and thought-provoking read. Perfect for readers who enjoy stories about family dynamics.
Jayleen Vargas
Experience the inspiring journey of an individual overcoming incredible odds in this powerful memoir. The author's candid and heartfelt writing brings their story to life. Each chapter reveals the resilience and strength of the human spirit. The narrative is both informative and deeply moving, offering valuable life lessons. It's a story that motivates and inspires, making it a must-read. Perfect for those seeking inspiration and personal growth.
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