While not as compelling a plot as some of Anaya's other novels in this series, this book introduces some interesting ideas about culture and identity and the importance of cultural context for communities. Reading these books decidedly out of order, I also liked getting more background on some of the characters and events that turn up in later books in this timeline. I did wish this novel had a stronger resolution- it seemed to just peter out at the end, which may be more true to real life, but makes for a less satisfying story. ( )