Reference Reviews

Lawrence Looks at Books

The States of Mexico. Peter Standish. 484p. Westport, CT: Greenwood Press, 2009. 978-0-313-34223-3; 2008-40911. $65.

The United States shares a border of nearly 2,000 miles with our neighbor Mexico. The country is our third largest trading partner after Canada and China. Millions of Mexicans have settled in the United States and constitute by far the largest single immigrant group in our country. While we might naturally enquire the home state of new acquaintances and make assumptions about them based on regional differences, few Americans could name the various states of Mexico or distinguish one region from another. This systematic survey of the political divisions of Mexico could help remedy that situation. From the deserts of Sonora to the jungles of Yucatan, Standish introduces the 31 states and the Distrito Federal of Mexico. The basic geographic and political features of each state are described, including climate, flora, fauna, rivers, mountain ranges and major cities. Distinctive cultural and linguistic groups are highlighted. Regional histories feature prominent local figures and range from the early explorations of Spanish conquistadors to the current turmoil in Chiapas. The tour includes both traditional and contemporary economic endeavors. Notable artistic traditions, social customs and festivals are presented along with noteworthy places to visit. Each chapter concludes with a discussion of regional cuisine, including 2-4 typical recipes. The result is a detailed but consistent geographical survey that will serve audiences in high school, public and undergraduate libraries.