by Anita Brenner, George R. Leighton

The history of the Mexican Revolution is key in understanding contemporary México. The text for this book is not extensive—, only about 100 pages—but it is supplemented with over 100 photographs, providing an excellent primer in these extremely important events.
  

[Not Pictured]   

Rarámuri Souls: Knowledge and Social Process in Northern Mexico, an ethnographic analysis of the Tarahumara

by William L. Merrill (published by the Smithsonian Institute)

Although not a book I would describe as thrilling, this knowledgeable volume deals with the culture, mythology, and religious beliefs of the Tarahumara “Indians” that dwell (primarily) in Northern Mexico’s Copper Canyon area. The Tarahumara are known for their abilities as runners. Some other interesting facts: Most residents of Chihuahua will be able to tell you that the Rarámuri (what the Tarahumara call themselves) refer to all non-Tarahumara as chibochi. Most, however, do not know that chibochi means “child of the Devil.” However, Tarahumara theology, while employing Christian terms, is not equivalent to traditional Christianity, and their concept of the Devil varies significantly from that in Christendom. 
   

by Patrick Oster

Although attempting to provide a detailed cross-section of modern Mexican people, Mr. Oster fails, in my opinion, to accurately capture the perspective of the subjects he studies. It is, if you will, an Americanized (and thereby flawed) view of Mexicans.