Ruben Blades (Hispanics of Achievement Series)

Gr 6-10-- Very little about the musician, songwriter, and actor's professional life escapes Marton's attention in this clearly written portrait of the well-known Panamanian-born performer. She sets his life story against the backdrop of growing up in a society heavily influenced by U. S. colonialism and permeated with poverty. She emphasizes the tension between Blades's resentment of American power intruding on Panamanian autonomy and his love of American rock music and films. This tension, she claims, has led to his involvement in left-wing politics, a commitment that has been reflected in the performer's songs and acting roles. There is, however, a gaping hole in this otherwise complete biographical sketch: except for a brief mention of Blades's marriage to an American actress and of his subsequent criticism by the Latino community, there is almost no mention made of his private life. Small, dark black-and-white photos supplement the text. A noteworthy addition to this fast-growing series. --Jack Forman, Mesa College Lib . , San Diego

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