"These inter-related stories, mostly set in East Los Angeles, uncover the lives of a conflicted Mexican-American community. Estella González vividly captures her native East LA in these affecting stories about a marginalized people dealing with racism, machismo and poverty. In painful and sometimes humorous scenes, young people try to escape the traditional expectations of their family. Other characters struggle with anger and resentment, often finding innovative ways to exact revenge for slights both real and imagined. Throughout, music traditional and contemporary accompanies them in the search for love and acceptance"--,Provided by publisher.