Hecho en Tejas a literary, musical extravaganza

by Marisa Treviño of of Latina Lista

Texans are often accused of doing things “bigger.” So it makes perfect sense that an upcoming event at the Latino Cultural Center based on the book Hecho en Tejas: An Anthology of Texas-Mexican Literature would be so much more than just a “book event.”

In fact, it is a literary, musical extravaganza celebrating Latino talent.

Hecho en Tejas (Made in Texas) was published in 2006 and features the voices of well-known and emerging Texas Mexican-American writers from before the 1930s to the 21st Century. Each writes in a voice that is uniquely their own and shares experiences and perspectives that reflect the bicultural lives Mexican-Americans live on a daily basis.

Yet, Hecho en Tejas isn’t the kind of book to be read and put away — it’s the kind that deserves to be celebrated. The writers of the anthology know this and have gotten together to create an unique event to fulfill that mission.

The event is called Hecho en Tejas and features a mix of literary authors sharing the stage with musical artists. From such recognizable names as Dallas’ own Macarena Hernandez, Daniel Garza and Tammy Gomez to Dagoberto Gilb and Rolando Hinojosa-Smith, the evening includes entertaining readings by these authors accompanied by some good old-fashioned Texas-born conjunto music. Rounding out the entertainment are the legendary accordion player Santiago Jimenez Jr. and fellow musicians David and Joel Garza.

Bringing these stories to life through the Hecho en Tejas event is one way Texas author Christine Granados is trying to catch the attention and imagination of Texas school systems. Granados would like to see Hecho en Tejas become part of the Texas curriculum so young Latino students can learn more about their cultural heritage and its part in making Texas what it is today.

An educational web site has already been set up with study guides to help teachers use the anthology in their classes. With Cinco de Mayo around the corner, the online study guides create an opportune time to take advantage of the lessons the book offers.

In the meantime, for those who like a little music with their reading and lots of entertainment, the Latino Cultural Center, in collaboration with the Writer’s Garrett and Nuestra Palabra: Latino Writers Having Their Say will host the Hecho en Tejas event.

It’s an evening where literature doesn’t just come alive — it sings in true conjunto style!