Fausto Avendaño stands among the most learned of contemporary Chicano writers, one who demonstrates exceptional skill in the short story and drama. Having published many short stories in the United States and Mexico, he is fluent in both Spanish and English, though most of his publications are in Spanish. His historical play, El corrido de California (The Ballad of California, 1979), is a good example of his dramatic talents. In it he gives life and shape to historical facts, creating an interesting and compelling plot.

Born in Culiacán, in the Mexican state of Sinaloa, Avendaño came to California with his parents at the age of four. He grew up in Southern California, primarily in the San Diego area, where he attended school and four years of college. As a student his first love was art. He had wanted to study painting, hoping eventually...