Tepito Bravo El Barrio!: Fotografias de Francisco Mata

Tepito, a notoriously dangerous neighborhood in Mexico City, is celebrated here with portraits of its local residents. The title of the book is a play on the neighborhood's slogan, ""el barrio bravo de Tepito"" (""the rough neighborhood of Tepito,""), in which the word bravo becomes a positive declaration. Photographer Matas, who has a genuine respect and fondness for Tepito and its inhabitants, presents a colorful cast of characters from all walks of life. The portraits appear in vivid, saturated color that really pop off the page, each labeled with the subject's name and occupation. Because Tepito happens to be the birthplace of several famous Mexican boxers and luchadores (wrestlers), quite a few aspiring fighters appear her as well. Included are many interviews and personal stories of Tepito residents. This is a lovely portrait of a neighborhood which, despite its ill-repute, still retains pockets of humanity and warmth. Recommended for academic art and public libraries. Laura Torres, Arlington, MA