Set in late 1800’s Mexico amid the political turmoil of General Porfirio Díaz’s regime “The Hummingbird’s Daughter” recounts the real-life story of Urrea’s great-aunt Teresita. The illegitimate daughter of the patrón and one of the indios working his ranch, Teresita eventually became known as Santa Teresa, the Saint of Cabora. Apprenticed to the colorful curandera (healer) Huila at an early age she eventually became known for her midwifery skills, healing powers and supposed return from the dead. Eventually her popularity among the laypeople inspired massive pilgrimages to her home and attracted the attention of General Díaz himself, who saw her as a threat to his authority when she began encouraging the Yaqui Indians to fight for their land. After spending twenty years researching Teresita’s life and even the healing techniques of the indios, Urrea has created an enthralling story filled with lively characters who all but jump off the page. I especially appreciated his colorful use of colloquial Spanish, which not only reminded me of some of my relatives but made his characters seem all the more human.