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Lorenzo’s Revolutionary Quest is suitable for students in grades sixth to ninth. The novel features Lorenzo, a young fictional adventurer who struggles to fulfill his commitment to the American Revolution and General George Washington. Not only does the general commission him as captain of the Continental Army, but he also assigns the sixteen year old the task of purchasing a herd of cattle from Spanish settlers in San Antonio, in order to feed his revolutionary army. During Lorenzo’s mission, he strives to overcome adversities, such as Indian raids, rustlers, and crude weather conditions. The actions of the story’s characters realistic portray the conflicts and resolutions of the time period. For instance, “Finding enough food for an army of ten thousand was difficult, but five hundred head of cattle would definitely help” (2). Lorenzo and Colonel De Galvez’s quest to drive the cattle out of San Antonio becomes suddenly complicated by Lieutenant Jose Menchaca’s unexpected command of the Governor’s Palace near the Mission San Antonio de Valero. Additionally, Lorenzo’s Revolutionary Quest’s strength lies in the novel’s ability to depict the American Revolution’s culturally diverse participants (such as the Comanche, Choctaw, the French, the Spanish, and the Irish).
Lila and Rick Guzman successfully fictionalize Lorenzo’s character, while also accurately depicting George Washington’s historical figure. For instance, the novel states that General Washington was unsuccessful in winning political victory (over a period of several months) and some members of Congress wanted their commander and chief replaced with Benedict Arnold. The authors use historical documents and folklore to create the characters and describe their actions.
Lorenzo’s Revolutionary Quest is well constructed and easy to understand. The historical details are integrated into the story, while not detracting from the story or becoming overwhelming for the readers. The story’s themes are worthwhile, as they contain suspense and emphasize the importance of duty and friendship. Lila and Rick Guzman’s writing style enhance the mood and the cultural beliefs of the characters. For example, the novel shows Dona Maria Robaina, a Canary Islander, in prayer at San Fernando cathedral. Moreover, Dona Maria Robaina and Lorenzo give Red (one of Lorenzo’s cattlemen) tips on how to court a Spanish girl name Soledad. This novel is useful in the study of Texas literature, the hero’s journey, and San Antonio’s historical connection to the missions. There are two informative maps as well as a resource for teachers at the end of the book.
Guzman, Lila, and Rick Guzman. Lorenzo’s Revolutionary Quest. Houston:
Arte Publico, 2003.
http://biography.jrank.org/pages/2130/Guzm-n-Rick-1957.html
http://biography.jrank.org/pages/2129/Guzm-n-Lila-1952.html
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