Book Review: They Call Me Güero: A Border Kid’s Poems
There’s something captivating about poetry that offers a voice to the unspoken, and when I stumbled upon They Call Me Güero: A Border Kid’s Poems by David Bowles, I knew I was in for a treat. The title itself pulled me in—how could I resist the charm of a middle school boy navigating life on the border? As a lover of verse, I was excited to see how Bowles would craft a narrative around a character who deals with the complexities of identity, belonging, and the fluidity of cultures.
At the heart of the book is Güero, a seventh-grader navigating the intriguing intersection between two worlds—his Mexican heritage and the American landscape he inhabits. With his striking red hair and freckles, he stands out but also perfectly fits into his vibrant community. His nickname is a gentle reminder of how appearances can sometimes overshadow the rich identity within. From the get-go, Güero’s voice radiates authenticity. Whether he’s jamming on his accordion, gaming with his squad, or experiencing the clumsy yet exhilarating aspects of young love—his journey is relatable and profound.
The book expertly delves into themes of cultural duality, friendship, and the bittersweetness of adolescence. I found myself chuckling alongside Güero and his band of misfits, Los Bobbys, as they navigated the chaotic waters of burgeoning identity and relationships. Joanna, the strong-willed girl in their midst, serves as a reminder of the complexities of young interactions. Bowles captures the essence of these friendships beautifully, evoking nostalgia while simultaneously embracing the excitement that comes with growing up.
What particularly stood out to me was Bowles’ unique writing style. The verse flows seamlessly, combining various poetic forms to create a rhythm that feels both playful and poignant. Each poem is like a snapshot—concise yet evocative, allowing readers to glimpse Güero’s world through a colorful lens. I vividly remember the lines where he describes the sight of his mother crafting traditional meals, conjuring both warmth and the flavors of his heritage. Moments like these linger, reminding us how poetry can elevate everyday experiences into something truly extraordinary.
In moments of struggle, Güero turns to poetry as a coping mechanism—a tool to articulate his fears and dreams. His journey is not just about finding his place in school or among friends, but discovering who he is in the grand tapestry of his cultures. One quote that resonated with me was when he wrote about feeling both lost and found—a beautiful encapsulation of his ongoing journey through adolescence.
I wholeheartedly recommend They Call Me Güero to middle-grade readers and anyone who cherishes the transformative power of poetry. Bowles has penned a heartfelt exploration of identity and belonging that will speak to both young readers and adults reminiscing about their own formative years. Personally, this book reminded me of the fluidity of growing up, the beauty that lies in our differences, and the bonds that unite us all regardless of our backgrounds.
In conclusion, They Call Me Güero is more than a book of poems; it’s a celebration of life’s complexities through the eyes of a young poet, and I’m grateful to have discovered Güero’s inspiring journey.
You can find They Call Me Güero: A Border Kid’s Poems here >>