<DIV>In late 2003, Texas State Senator Leticia Van de Putte led ten other Texas Senate Democrats to New Mexico as part of a protest against a Republican redistricting plan. The walkout of the ?Texas Eleven” made national headlines; it also deprived the state senate of a quorum and temporarily froze all legislative action.<br><br> As Sharon A. Navarro shows in Latina Legislator, the dramatic boycott is a fitting image for Van de Putte's life and career. Though she initially ran for office on a shoestring budget, Senator Van de Putte has successfully authored and sponsored legislation that has reformed the state welfare system, revamped the Juvenile Code, and provided a healthcare safety net for children in Texas. Multiple civic and community groups have recognized her as one of the most effective and influential lawmakers in Texas.<br><br> With Van de Putte as her central case study, Navarro assesses the possibilities for other Latina and all female legislators. Further, her analysis of Van de Putte's record provides a context for judging legislative effectiveness and productivity. This book is invaluable for those interested in Texas and regional politics as well as women's and ethnic studies.</DIV>