The Latin Deli

The Latin Deli by Judith Ortiz Cofer is published by The University of Georgia Press, 1993.

Plot:
This work is a series of short stories and poems. The stories and poems do not connect through characters, but have much in common in terms of genre. Most of the stories are focalized through a young Latina girl (10-16 years) and take place in urban centers. The Latin Deli is mostly about family, society, heritage, sexuality, media, and more. The poems relate curious tales of childhood, unique takes on Latina family life, instances of life and death, and other means of relating the vital parts of life.

Analysis:
The Latin Deli gives a strong, unique view into Latin culture, especially since most of its stories are from the perspective of intelligent, socially-isolated young women. It is evident that these girls (usually being the daughters of immigrants) identify as Americans and must struggle to cope with the contrasting cultures of the home and of society. The stories give special insight into the lives of immigrant families, and casts each culture in a positive light, throwing the reader into the very thought processes of the main characters.

Teachability:
I would recommend that this be taught in an 8th or 9th grade, just considering the sexual stories in the novel. It was an excellent read, and each story seemed to pass quickly. The themes aren't too complex, and the poetry contained strong images that students could catch onto quickly. I would highly recommend this for a Latino majority classroom.