Understanding Francisco Goldman

"Understanding Francisco Goldman gives us a broad scope about the author's development, his significance for a variety of literary genres and traditions, and his complicated position as a cultural translator in the hemispheric Americas."—American Literary History

"Ariana Vigil's thoughtful work packed with insights into historical periods, Inter-American politics, literature, and a critical reflection on culture, focuses on how the son of a Jewish American father and a Catholic Guatemalan mother, became a bridge-builder and a translator of Central American events to American readers. Vigil outlines Goldman's origins, and his struggles and transformations to become one of the leading writers and journalists in both this country and in Central America. She signals his binational perspective, and aptly elaborates a rigorous reflection of Goldman's published works—both novels and non-fiction. Ultimately, Vigil depicts Goldman as a vibrant, flexible, and resilient writer that should be considered part of the American canon. It is a pleasure to read this book!"—Arturo Arias, University of California, Merced