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Karen Valentin, with Edwin Aymat. . Judson Press, $14 (157pp) ISBN 978-0-8170-1534-3

This book testifies to the diversity of the Latino community in America. Though a majority of Hispanic Americans are of Mexican ancestry, Valentin is of Puerto Rican heritage. While most Hispanics are Catholic, the author is a Baptist; evangelicalism is growing among Hispanics. This book does not, however, concern itself with statistics and the sociology of religion. Instead, it offers slice-of-life reflections accompanied by scripture and prayers, primarily the work of Aymat, Valentin’s uncle and a clergyman. The book is a very easy read; it speaks to and about a community being assimilated into the American quilt of ethnicities, one with strong family ties and seriousness about faith. In a friendly and closely observed way, Valentin offers lived faith, seen through a unique Hispanic lens. (Aug.)