Who Would Have Thought It: My Story of the American Civil War

María Ruiz de Burton's novel 'Who Would Have Thought It?' is a thought-provoking and ground-breaking work that delves into issues of race, class, and gender in 19th-century America. Written in a sophisticated and elegant style, the narrative follows the story of Lola, a young Mexican girl who is adopted by an American family and struggles to find her place in a society that views her as an outsider. Through vivid characters and sharp social commentary, de Burton sheds light on the complexities and contradictions of American identity during this tumultuous period. The novel's unique blend of realism and satire offers a compelling exploration of themes that are still relevant today. María Ruiz de Burton, a Mexican-American author, wrote 'Who Would Have Thought It?' as a response to the cultural conflicts and prejudices she observed in her own life. As one of the first Mexican-American writers to gain recognition in the United States, de Burton's groundbreaking work paved the way for future Latinx voices in literature. Her personal experiences as a marginalized woman of color undoubtedly influenced the depth and authenticity of the novel's themes and characters. I highly recommend 'Who Would Have Thought It?' to readers interested in exploring the intersection of race, class, and gender in American society. María Ruiz de Burton's insightful and incisive novel offers a unique perspective on the complexities of identity and the enduring impact of cultural assimilation.