Edited by Stavans (Latin American and Latino culture, Amherst C.) this volume is made up of seven academic studies that previously appeared in scholarly journals. Examining the intersection of Latino culture and the medical system, the contributors examine issues ranging from psychiatric disorders to sexual socialization. One chapter explores why Latinos living in the United States report poor health and question the role of "Americanization." Another chapter provides a comprehensive report on field work in New York City on the use of botanical medicine by Latinos. Overall, though, the book makes the point throughout that one cannot reach general conclusions about Hispanics in the United States. They vary, for instance, through class, origin (such as whether they come from Mexico or Puerto Rico), or even whether they live in the Northeast or Southwest. Annotation ©2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)