Tan lejos de Dios. (Far from God)

Reviewed by Ana K. Bonfante, Berwyn, IL -- Críticas, 12/15/2006

After traveling and living in Mexico for many years, Contreras—Newsweek’s regional editor for Latin American since 2002—has written a comprehensive historical account of the political, economic, and cultural changes that have occurred in that country, focusing on how these changes have affected Mexico’s people and their way of life. With historical accounts dating back to Miguel de la Madrid’s presidency in 1982, this work covers changes in Mexico’s politics, economy, and social classes, particularly as a result of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). As Contreras explains, Mexicans (especially the middle and upper social classes) have assimilated U.S. culture, which has altered the traditions that existed among Mexico’s people before the NAFTA treaty took place. The author explores and explains Mexico’s immigration to the United States and the social transformation immigration has caused in both countries. He also analyzes the relationship between the two countries over the years. Contreras concludes by predicting what will happen to Mexico politically, economically, and culturally and assessing its future relationship with the United States. An excellent tool to understanding the economic and political changes that Mexico has undergone in recent years; recommended for libraries and bookstores.