Author and journalist Daniel Hernandez spoke to students in Loyola Marymount’s English and Chicano Studies departments on Wednesday, reading from his new book “Down and Delirious in Mexico City.”
Hernandez spoke of his own experiences with his identity, having been told by others that, as the American-born son of Mexican parents, he is “not really Mexican.” Yet during his time in Mexico City, others told him he was just like them.
(Turn volume up; the audio is very low.)
Hernandez was invited to speak at LMU by Professor Rubén Martínez, the Fletcher Jones Chair of Literature and Writing. Hernandez said he was strongly influenced by Martínez’s 1993 book “The Other Side,” which also chronicles the interplay between cultures on both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border, and beyond.
Hernandez also signed copies of his book, which has been described by reviewers as perceptive and gritty. His book release party will be Thursday, Feb. 17, at The Echo on Sunset Boulevard in Echo Park.