Sí Se Puede
Written by Julio Anta
Illustrated by Yasmín Flores Montañez

First of all, I LOVED this book! Both the art and the writing were so well thought out and fitting to the subject at hand. This is a book about Latinx history, culture, and influence in the United States throughout history. And it goes all the way back. And it goes all the way forward.

The illustrations in this book are vibrant, clear, and detailed. Flores Montañez takes care in visually representing the diversity of the Latinx community in each panel. Her choice of colors also helps keep the reader engaged and guides them between the different places and time periods.

The writing is top notch. The setting for this book is fascinating; Anta begins with placing the reader in an interactive museum exhibit. We meet our tour guide, Camilo and four fellow visitors on the tour. These visitors are from different generations, and they (or their families) came from different countries at different points in time. They represent just a handful of the differences faced by Latinx people in the US today.

Throughout the book we journey to different parts of the exhibit, looking at historical and contemporary Latinx figures from all walks of life. There are activists, athletes, scientists, entertainers, and more. And what this book does really well is that it digs into some of the names that we might already be familiar with (César Chavez, Rita Moreno, Ellen Ochoa, etc.) while also introducing us to names that might not be as well-known to all readers (such as Felipe Luciano, Sylvia Acevedo, Dara Torres, and more).

Not only does the book address serious issues such as colonialism, intersectionality, colorism, discrimination, and more, but it also tackles these topics without being dismissive of the differing opinions that may exist on the subject. A great example of this is around the term “Latinx.” I won’t spoil it here, but the conversation among the characters in the book is genuinely thoughtful and considerate of the different perspectives they each hold. Anta also provides an index at the end of this book, something not often seen in comics or graphic novels but something that is incredibly useful in a classroom text.

The only “downside” that I saw to this book is that it wasn’t released until after the fall semester started. Otherwise, I would have included the book in my college curriculum unit on the US as Latin America. Combining this graphic novel with academic articles or chapters (some from the books Anta references at the end of the book) would be a great way to help students more fully understand the impact of Latin Americans and Latines on the US.

I can’t wait to pick up a physical copy of this book when it is released!

I love this book, and I'm so glad it's coming out in a just a few weeks. We need it right now. I hope it finds a wide readership, and not just among youth and young adults. Anta’s amazing compilation of Latino history is rich and complex without being overwhelming. The graphics are interesting but don't distract from the content.
I picked this book because I knew Delores Huerta many, many years ago. But starting all the way back with the indigenous cultures of Latin America, I learned so much (and this despite my thinking I knew a lot of this history.). I didn’t know that Mexican-American Union soldiers defended the territory of New Mexico during the Civil War, and stopped the Confederacy from moving west.
When I got to the section on the United Farm Workers movement, I learned things I had not known, even though I was there for the better part of a year. Cesar Chavez and Delores Huerta were and are heroes to me, and they need to not be forgotten.
I hope that not just children and young people read this book. I hope many adults will pick it up also, because we all need the education, particularly in the middle of the refugee crisis.
My thanks to Mr. Alta and to the publisher for allowing me to read an advance copy of Sí, Se Puede. All opinions are my own.

I loved the premise of walking through a museum exhibit to learn about different Latino heroes. I particularly liked the discussion on how Latinos fought in the Civil War because I don’t think that’s something people know or think about. The art was beautiful and fun. It was very informative and I liked the mention of Latinos from NYC.

Wow wow wow! I learned SO much from this. It was clear, eloquent and comprehensive! This book seemingly left no stone unturned, and represented such a large swath of historical information in a easy to digest format. Literally no notes whatsoever. The art style was fantastic — it felt like a classic comic book. Yeah I really don’t know what to add. Read the book, learn something!

A really wonderful and well-drawn graphic novel that explores for Latinos have been instrumental to making the United States what it is today. There is a nice balance between better known and lesser know figures. The art is beautiful and it does a good job at being informative without feeling too much like a textbook.

Absolutely adore the approach in this graphic novel history of Latinos in the United States because the narrator takes the other characters through the history to the present of movers and shakers in the Latino world that were shaped by their own individual cultures in different parts of the world to colonization, and ultimately what impact they have on everyday life here in the United States dropping facts and knowledge but also providing deeper learning around topics like gendered language the Spanish language and what's up with "latinx" to the percentage of Latinos in the United States to the shifts from Spanish to Hispanic to Latino and where we find famous Latinos from the Supreme Court to the laboratory.

It's chock full of information without losing pace or interest with vignettes and breaking the fourth wall. It's similar in complexity and visual historical interest to the March trilogy.

I love everything about this book. The book is very informative about Latino culture and I've learned so much about parts of history I never got to learn in school. As a librarian, this book will help many students looking for historical graphic novels. It's hard to read textbooks or listen to lectures about the history of the past, so I'm very happy to know this novel exists.

It’s been a while since I sat down to read a graphic novel and this one definitely is a tough one to get back into it. While I’m always eager to learn, the idea of learning through a graphic novel sounded so satisfying since it’s easier to digest. I think that’s the main reason why this book is a wonderful recommendation for all ages. The point I was trying to make is that it does start out with a lot of text and information to swallow. You definitely have to pay attention with this one.

As a European the history on the continent of America was interesting in itself since it’s parts we gloss over during our own history classes. We have enough major events and centuries of European history to focus on. Readin the quick summation of the years and the actions of the USA truly made me wonder how that all is being taught in the USA – if at all. My own country, Belgium, has a horrible colonization history and I remember it being taught in schools and it being very clear that it was bad. But looking back at it now, I feel like a lot was still glossed over and not truly mentioned. The crimes of our own royalty and military definitely gets mentioned but the impact? Not really.

It’s interesting, is it not – because then you have the World Wars that get so much attention in European history classes because as a whole we were the victims so we feel the need, rightfully so, to make sure people get educated and all the information is out there. But as soon as it’s a historical event where you’re the bad guy… History is written by the victors. Never forget that.

This was a really well done graphic novel. I loved the concept behind it. Having people from the modern day walk through an immersive history museum is super creative. The art was well done. I also learned a lot about the impact Latinos had (and have) on history and culture.

Words cannot express how happy reading Si, Se Puede made me! I did not want it to end at all, paired with the beautiful illustrations. I had no idea Lucy Ricardo and Ricky Ricardo was one of the first interracial marriages shown on tv at the time!! It actually makes me really mad that the us curriculum does not teach us about the various Latino scientists (Ellen Ochoa, Dr. Mario Molina) and warriors/soldiers and entertainers who literally influenced and inspired countless people today! It's a shame!

Sí, Se Puede, written by Julio Anta, is a captivating graphic history that shines a spotlight on the often-overlooked contributions of unacknowledged Latino rebels, artists, scientists, sports icons, and activists who have shaped the United States.
Through an immersive museum tour, readers embark on a virtual adventure, meeting diverse Hispanic-Americans across different eras.
*Vibrant Visual Storytelling*
With dynamic illustrations and a vibrant colour palette, Sí, Se Puede brings each historical figure to life, breathing energy and authenticity into their stories. The graphic novel format enhances the immersive experience, engaging readers with powerful visuals that inform and entertain. Imagine floating like you're in a spaceship, witnessing astronaut Ellen Ochoa at work. This innovative approach is a glimpse into the future of museums.
*Inclusivity and Representation*
In an era that emphasizes inclusivity and representation, Sí, Se Puede arrives as a timely and essential work. Julio Anta gives voice to unrecognized Latino heroes, challenging conventional narratives and emphasizing their rightful place in the fabric of American society. The book tackles various essential themes, including the debates around the term "Latino," feminism, intersectionality, discrimination, colonialism, transgender rights, and racism.
*A Must-Read for a More Inclusive History*
Sí, Se Puede is a fascinating graphic history that educates, inspires, and celebrates the unrecognized Latino heroes who have shaped the United States. Julio Anta and illustrator Yasmín Flores Montañez create an unforgettable reading experience that broadens our understanding and promotes a more inclusive history of America. The concept of presenting the story as if you're in a museum exhibition, witnessing the events firsthand, is a refreshing and effective way to transport readers to the past.
*Recommendation*
As an archaeologist, I find it challenging to convey the feeling of being present in historical events. However, Sí, Se Puede accomplishes this brilliantly. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in learning about Latino history. It's a must-read that enriches our cultural tapestry and reveals the untold stories that have shaped the United States.

Thank you, NetGalley, for offering the opportunity to read this ARC. 4.5* I learned so much from reading this graphic novel, and I loved the illustrations and how it tells the story of these heroes' impact on America. As the title says, there’s a lot to know about the impact of Latinos/Latinas in the United States, yet so crucial In a history that sometimes gets forgotten or erased. I recommend everyone to read this book, very informative and great storytelling!

I loved all the things I learnt through this graphic novel. I still think we need much more Hispanic representation in books and a graphic novel is a great way to learn about historical figures!

Really really strong text about Latino diaspora and history. The graphic novel has a frame story of a diverse range of Hispanic identities traveling back in time to important points of Hispanic-American history.

The chosen historical events are wonderfully explained with a good balance of history and discussion of identity. It also includes some lesser known historical figures with more well-known recent ones.

It does a really great job of defining terms related to the discussion of race and identity, but could come across as too "woke" for some readers.

I'm not sure about the target audience. The level of discourse is really advanced but the historical information and representation is top notch for advanced upper-elementary all the way up to college.

An engaging and informative overview on influential Latinos in US History. I liked the immersive museum premise because it allowed for a group of characters with different interests and perspectives on the history being taught; I think having that group helped to further dismantle the myth of the monolith that the tour guide mentioned. The author was very intentional with the language he used, and the text didn’t shy away from tricky topics, like colonization, the negatives of US intervention, colorism, etc.

If you like non-fiction, are interested in learning stories from the Latino community or just learning about a different part of US history run don't walk to get your hands on this book!I love reading books where I learn something new and the fact that this is a graphic novel made it even better.

Thank you to NetGalley and Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press.

First I would love to thank Netgalley and Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press, Ten Speed Graphic for letting me read this arc in exchange for a unbiased review!

This graphic novel is not only informative but also beautifully drawn. In the first few pages alone complex history and terminology are explained in a way that is not offensive and does not sugar coat the painful history of Latam and the West. Every section show cases key figures that many Latinos know by name but are definitely forgotten by people outside of the community. From activists, to celebrities', to politicians there is a section discussing the beautiful and tragic lives and history of Latinos.

The ONLY issue with this book is on the page about Latino actors putting pressure on the studios to ensure non-type cased rolls and becoming super hero's has Tenoch Huerta who has been accused by multiple woman including major activist María Elena Río, of sexual assault. There are so many other superhero actors that should be there instead of a sexual abuser: Carlos Valdes, Gabriel Luna, Allegra Acosta, and Xolo Maridueña.

If this is changed I will happily switch it to 5 stars.

First I would like to thank Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press for providing me an advanced copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.

As someone who identifies as part of the Latino community I was curious and excited when I saw this book. I love learning about history and I was curious how this book was a graphic novel covering some of the most important Latino figures within the US.

What I Loved:
- Museum concept, this story is focused around a fictional museum which walks a diverse group of Latinos through different phases of Latino history
- Timeline, this story covers everything from the indigenous cultures of the Americas through the US's most recent historical figures
- Subjects, I enjoy how they chose to highlight Latinos who made contributions across a wide range of subjects including military, science, entertainment, sports and politics
- Learning, there were more people featured in this book that I didn't know about than I did and it was amazing what type of contributions different members of the Latino community have made to the development of the US
- Art, the art within this book and how they drew each person and the color choices used throughout the story really added to the overall feeling of the book and was super engaging.

I love reading books where I learn something new and the fact that this is a graphic novel made it even better. I will be telling anyone who will listen about this book and recommending it to everyone because I think in the time we are currently living everyone should take the time and learn about all of the communities which have contributed to the building and growth of our nation.

If you like non-fiction, are interested in learning stories from the Latino community or just learning about a different part of US history run don't walk to get your hands on this book!

Solid introduction into the many contributions of the Latinx community throughout U.S. History. It works as a great jumping off point for kids and adults to dig deeper!

Took a second to get used to the paragraphs of textbook. Was very teach-y. I loved the graphic element. There was a couple drops of convo between the characters, but they felt a little awkward. It was easier to learn about the people this way then through a traditional book.