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Claire Huchet Bishop

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In the following essay, the critic highlights "… And Now Miguel" as an unforgettable and distinguished work, praising its detailed portrayal of sheep raising, the Hispanic family life, and a young boy's aspirations, all contributing to a rich narrative expressed in simple and genuine language.

Miguel Chavez lives in New Mexico. From time immemorial the Chavez have raised sheep. Every year the men take the sheep to graze on the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Miguel, who is twelve, has a secret wish: to go with the men and the sheep to the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

Such is the theme of "… And Now Miguel" which develops into a beautiful symphony where everything enters: factual and detailed information on sheep raising, on the family life of those of Spanish descent, on the heart yearnings of a boy, and some simple dialogues which tackle the problem of human destiny. Miguel himself tells the story and he does not use any word that a boy of his age could not use. What comes out is a tale of grandeur, tenderness, and sheer beauty….

This is a distinguished, unforgettable book…. (p. 62)

Claire Huchet Bishop, in The Saturday Review (Entire issue copyright 1953 by Saturday Review Associates, Inc.; reprinted with permission). November 14, 1953.

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