Magical Habits

Magical Habits by Monica Huerta explores how relationships among self, place, race, and storytelling contend with the afterlives of history and racial capitalism through a dynamic conversation among genres, voices, and archives. Huerta develops a new mode of criticism through storytelling, taking readers through Cook County courtrooms, the Cristero Rebellion, Japanese baths in San Francisco, and Chaucer.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 13 August 2021
Publisher: Duke University Press

Monica Huerta's Magical Habits is a captivating exploration of the intricate connections between self, place, race, and storytelling. Drawing from her experiences growing up in her family's Mexican restaurants and her scholarly pursuits in literature and culture, Huerta delves into the complex interplay between historical legacies and racial capitalism. Through a rich tapestry of genres, voices, and archives, Huerta weaves a dynamic conversation that encompasses personal and critical essays, fairy tales, photographs, restaurant menus, and fictional monologues based on her family's history. By employing storytelling as a critical lens, Huerta takes readers on a journey through Cook County courtrooms, the Cristero Rebellion, Japanese baths in San Francisco, and even a brief foray into Chaucer's works. Ultimately, Magical Habits offers a profound reflection on the habits of living that enable us to contemplate the meaning of living with history while remaining engaged in the present moment.

This captivating book received the Duke University Press Scholars of Color First Book Award, recognizing its significant contribution to the field. Huerta's writing is characterized by her ability to blend personal anecdotes with scholarly insights, creating a rich and immersive narrative that resonates with readers of all backgrounds. Through her exploration of the intersections of race, culture, and history, Huerta challenges readers to think critically about the ways in which these factors shape our lives and societies.

One of the key themes of Magical Habits is the impact of historical legacies on contemporary life. Huerta examines how the legacies of colonization, slavery, and other forms of oppression continue to shape our understanding of ourselves and our relationships with others. She challenges readers to consider how these legacies manifest in everyday experiences and to explore ways in which we can dismantle them.

Another important aspect of the book is the exploration of the relationship between place and identity. Huerta argues that our sense of place is deeply intertwined with our sense of self and that our experiences in different environments shape our perspectives and values. She explores the ways in which place can influence our relationships with others, as well as our own sense of belonging and self-worth.

Magical Habits also delves into the complexities of racial capitalism and its impact on communities of color. Huerta examines how economic systems and institutions perpetuate racial inequality and discrimination, and how individuals and communities can resist and challenge these systems. She offers insights into the strategies and tactics used by marginalized communities to advocate for their rights and create change.

Through her storytelling, Huerta creates a sense of empathy and connection with her readers. She weaves personal anecdotes and historical narratives together in a way that is both accessible and engaging, allowing readers to see themselves and their experiences within the broader context of history and culture.

In conclusion, Monica Huerta's Magical Habits is a thought-provoking and deeply engaging book that offers a unique perspective on the intersection of race, culture, and history. Through her storytelling and critical analysis, Huerta challenges readers to think critically about the ways in which these factors shape our lives and societies, and provides insights into the strategies and tactics used by marginalized communities to resist and challenge systems of oppression. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of contemporary life and the ongoing struggle for social justice.

Weight: 300g
Dimension: 151 x 224 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781478014171