Authorpreneur Dashboard – Robert Alfaro
Baloney, Baloney, Baloney!: A Memoir
Biographies & Memoirs
In "Baloney, Baloney, Baloney: Laughter, Tears and the Pursuit of Identity," Robert takes us on an unforgettable journey through the "Mexican Barrio" of an old West Texas town, vividly recounting the trials and tribulations of growing up in a poor household with limited English during the 1950s and 60s. Born to a Mexican father and an American mother Robert's narrative is a poignant exploration of life, death, solemnity and the aspirations that fueled his determination to assimilate into American culture.
In the shadow of poverty, discrimination, and an education system unsuitable for non-English speakers, Robert unravels the conflicting emotions that define his journey, crafting a narrative that resonates with readers from all walks of life.
Drawing from his personal experiences, Robert emerges as a compelling voice, shedding light on the challenges faced by those navigating the complexities of cultural assimilation and education in mid-20th century America.
Embark on a journey of self-discovery and shared humanity. Join Robert in "Baloney, Baloney, Baloney," A tale that transcends cultural boundries, reminding us of the universal pursuit of hope and identity. Laugh, cry, and reflect as you turn the pages of this compelling memoir.
Book Bubbles from Baloney, Baloney, Baloney!: A Memoir
Learning new things at 7 years old
At 7 years of age I'm learning things I really can't understand so there are more questions in my mind than answers. I see the inside of a jail house when my dad is sent there because of a DUI. I see dogs having sex and can't explain what is happening. The family moves from one poor dwelling to an even poorer one. All these experiences challenges my thinking about the world I live in.
Attending an integrated school
In this chapter, I find myself stepping into an integrated school for the first time, leaving behind the Mexican school I had grown to love and respect. In our small West Texas town—isolated in the middle of nowhere—elementary schools remained segregated until the fourth grade, despite the clear unconstitutionality of such a practice. For the first time, I would share a classroom with white children, an experience that immediately revealed the stark contrasts between my former school and this newer, better-equipped institution. The disparities were undeniable, forcing me to question why it had taken so long to integrate us and how, even after desegregation, institutional barriers continued to keep Hispanic children separate from their white peers.
Summer of '59
The year I turned 8 life in the barrio hadn't changed much. I'm going into the 3rd grade in what was known as the Mexican school in my little ole town of Fort Stockton, Texas. This chapter deals with my struggle learning the English language and how living in the armpit of this town seemed so far removed from the rest of the world.
St. Joseph Church
Growing up Catholic was at times a scary experience, especially for a young boy who didn't understand the religious rules that governed the lives of our small Hispanic community. While we were expected to become good Catholics, my life was full of sins because the rules were hard to follow. However, the consolation was if one prayed hard enough for forgiveness today, tomorrow you could go back to being a rambunctious kid again.
