Placing Latin America: Contemporary Themes in Geography

by Edward L. Jackiewicz (Editor), Fernando J. Bosco (Editor)

This comprehensive study offers a thematic approach to Latin America, focusing on the dynamic connections between people, places, and environments rather than on pre-defined notions about the region. The book’s well-rounded and accessible analysis includes discussions of borders and migration; transnationalism and globalization; urbanization and the material, environmental and social landscapes of cities; and the connections between economic development and political change. The authors also explore social and cultural themes such as the illegal drug trade, tourism, children, and cinema. Offering a nuanced and clear perspective, this book will be a valuable resource for all those interested in the politics, economy, and society of a rapidly globalizing continent.

Contributions Fernando J. Bosco, J. Christopher Brown, James Craine, Altha J. Cravey, Giorgio Hadi Curti, James Hayes, Edward L. Jackiewicz, Thomas Klak, Mirek Lipinski, Regan M. Maas, Araceli Masterson-Algar, Kent Mathewson, Sarah A. Moore, Linda Quiquivix, Zia Salim, Kate Swanson, and Benjamin Timms.

268 pages, Hardcover

First published March 28, 2008

Reviews

[Jordan Lopez · Rating 3 out of 5]

Had to read it for class. Each chapter has a different author which means that along with the topic the writing style changes with each chapter. I was interested in some of the topics more than others and I liked the more storied style over the academic style that some authors used. I would say it's an easy read for the most part with the concepts being easily explained with plenty of timely scenarios. However, I don't think I would read this if it wasn't a class requirement but if you find yourself having to read it for class for the most part it is an easy read.

[Tyne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This collection of essays offers a geographic perspective on Latin American society. Topics covered include urbanization (Latin America is the most urbanized region of the world), U.S./Mexico borderlands, tourism & ecotourism, drug geographies (specifically cocaine), and destruction of tropical rainforests. I recommend this book as an unbiased source of information on current issues in Latin America.