REVIEWS

Midwest Book Review  
 
http://www.midwestbookreview.com/sbw/jul_05.htm#christian

"Tears from the Crown of Thorns / Lagrimas de la Corona de Espinas is an English/Spanish bilingual and historical book about the Easter observance in the famous city of San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. Full-color photographs on every page capture the vibrancy of life, pious faith, the process of crafting religious statues of angels, saints, Mary, Jesus Christ, and other figures. Covering local traditions of faith from a solemn processional re-enacting the suffering of Christ bearing his own cross, to the more fanciful displays of papier-mache figures of Judas exploding with inner fireworks and much more, Tears from the Crown of Thorns is a respectful survey filled with poignant Christian images that instantly command one's attention.

Richard Rodriguez
Commentator from Lehrer News Report PBS

The images are really quite wonderful, and truly Mexican. I do congratulate you on this beautiful artifact. "Tears from the Crown of Thorns", moves us very close, indeed, to the Mexican soul. Truly yours is a beautiful book and a real testament to love of Mexico.

Tradición Revista  
http://nmsantos.com/Feature.html  Fall 2005

"Tears from the Crown of Thorns by Charlotte Bell. Published in 2005 by Charlotte Bell, 128 pages, softback, 232 photos in full color, $30.00 ISBN 0-9764955-0-3.
This may be a one-of-a-kind book – the pictures of the Easter celebration at San Miguel de Allende in Mexico. The text is in Spanish and English. Although the pictures are beautiful to look at the book has the feeling you are in the middle of the celebration and the pictures don’t have the polished or edited feel. Instead they feel almost surreal with an in your face appeal. There are pictures of processions, art, people, buildings, and daily life during Easter week. For those who vacation in San Miguel this book will bring back memories. It also documents an important part of the traditions. It is a nice gift. You may have a little difficulty finding the book so email char@charwolf.com.

QUOTES FROM READERS:

  “I was moved by the concept. This book revived my appreciation for graphic publications of the cultural life and values of San Miguel. I thank you for publishing something that pays tribute to both the native and the new inhabitants who play a part in preserving our traditions” 
Manuel Zavala, former mayor of San Miguel.

“The angels are in my hands to help me create my statues. They are in the heart of Senora Bell as she writes and takes her photographs.” 
Don Genaro Almanza (Santero) San Miguel de Allende MX

“The book is magnificent! It captures the beauty, legend, and characteristics of San Miguel and it's Easter customs.” 
Lynn Weatherly, Pittsburgh, PA

“I never realized that processions and statues actually tell history.” 
Susan Sutter, Portland, OR

“I was touched by the clear, honest and heart felt style of the author. Can't wait to see the next book.” 
Kathy Jacobs, New York, NY

 








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