New destinations : Mexican immigration in the United States /

This challenging, well-constructed sociological anthology of case studies focuses on the new rapid Mexican migration to and settlement in states of the US Midwest, South, and East Coast (e.g., Nebraska, Louisiana, New York). The studies document the shift from single, migratory male workers on the fringes of society to settled families participating in the mainstream of communities, provoking responses ranging from peaceful assistance to armed resistance; they also describe the implications for public policies. This "tectonic demographic shift" is based on changes in the labor structure of industries such as meatpacking, fishing, and agriculture. These parallel-structured narratives not only complicate the popular public understandings of Mexican immigration, but also augment the best work of veteran scholars with sound sources, methodology, and analysis. Using their findings and putting research into action, several scholars also participate in resolving local problems. Of particular interest are discussions of how Mexicans intersect the traditional biracial order of the Jim Crow South. Another strength is in pointing out the ironic, unintended benefits of undocumented migration over participation in legal channels such as the "H2" program, at a time when new government-sponsored migrations are being considered. ^BSumming Up: Recommended. Upper-division undergraduates and above. S. M. Green California State University--Chico