New to the catalogue

Homesickness tends to be regarded as a childish trait in America today. It is rarely talked of. If mentioned, those experiencing pangs for home are often advised to think of the strength of the early Colonists and demonstrate a so-called “pioneer spirit”.

In contrast, Susan J. Matt explores the yearning for home felt by those arriving in early America. The homesickness felt by Native Americans, displaced by these settlers and that of Slaves is also noted by the author.

Matt highlights, that even as late as the 19^th Century, homesickness was taken so seriously in America that some military bands were not allowed to play “Home Sweet Home” in case soldiers were struck by a longing for home. Indeed, “nostalgia”, as homesickness was commonly known as then, was seen as deadly by some.

Using letters, diaries, medical records, and psychological studies, the author argues that Americans have only gradually learnt their famed individualism. This fascinating study examines the reasons for this and also looks at how strong ties to home can still be felt Americans today.

You can find further details of Homesickness : an American history on our catalogue.

Amexica recounts the journey that Ed Vulliamy made along the border between Mexico and America. With the news coverage of the drug wars that are ravaging Mexico and parts of America this book is a relevant addition to our collection.

The struggle’s and small triumphs made by the people affected by the drug wars and poverty in Mexico are harrowing. Vulliamy brings these stories from the black and white print into full colour.

Amexica contains stomach churning stories of women abducted and brutally murdered as well as injustice in the factories. The spirit of the Mexican people shines through with Vulliamys’ accounts of their triumphs and set backs in the fight against injustice and violence. This book gives the reader a true picture of what it is like to live in Mexico’s borderland.

You can find more on Amexica on our catalogue.

With the advent of new laws on immigration being passed in the State of Arizona and this issue playing a key role in the recent UK elections, ‘Replenished ethnicity: Mexican Americans, immigration, and identity’ by Tomás R. Jiménez has great bearing on current events.

This book looks into the identities of Mexican Americans and how they’re affected by continued immigration from Mexico.

Tomás R. Jiménez is an assistant professor of sociology at Stanford University. His research and writing focus on

• immigration
• assimilation
• social mobility
• ethnic and racial identity.

By exploring Mexican immigration the reader is given a frank look at ethnic boundaries and ethnic identity.

You can find details of Replenished ethnicity on our catalogue