This Puerto Rican scholar provides some of the smoothest, most powerful insight into the complex relationship between the mainland and the fascinating island of Puerto Rico. Most people in the US have few or no ideas about the reality of life here, an island classified as a Free Associated State, a status unlike any other colonial possession. Carrion, who was educated largely in the US, displays a keen knowledge of Puerto Rican people and their eternal connection to the Spanish language. Wisely, he urges Puerto Ricans to learn English and Americans to learn Spanish. This language issue has hindered both nations for a century. Carrion dispels myths about what Puerto Ricans look like, for the national traits of the island come from myriad sources, such as Spain, France, Africa, and the Taino culture which once flourished on this island prior to Colombus' arrival. Indeed, the national character of this people is not an easy nut to crack, and anyone who wishes to do so must read this amazing text, which is comprised of lectures and papers from Carrion's personal library. The Interamerican University of Puerto Rico inherited his papers upon his death, and publishers would be wise to continue offering this amazing man's insights to the leagues of readers studying the relations between, and the cultures of the US and Puerto Rico.
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