The Revolt of the Cockroach People
Description
The Revolt of the Cockroach People by Oscar Zeta Acosta is a propulsive, darkly funny novel of the Chicano movement in late‑1960s Los Angeles. Following a hard‑charging attorney modeled on Acosta himself—famously nicknamed “Dr. Gonzo”—the book blends courtroom battles, street protests, and mordant satire into a vivid portrait of power and resistance.
This Vintage trade paperback edition includes an introduction by Hunter S. Thompson and remains a landmark of American counterculture and Latinx literature.
Key Features
- Movement classic: A ground‑level view of East L.A. activism, told with grit and gallows humor.
- Notable edition: Features an introduction by Hunter S. Thompson; sequel to The Autobiography of a Brown Buffalo.
- Publisher facts: Paperback; 272 pages; Vintage; publication date August 28, 1989; ISBN‑13 9780679722120.
- Recognition: Named among The Atlantic's "Great American Novels of the Past 100 Years."
Why Choose This Book
- Voice & verve: Satirical, fearless storytelling that still feels urgent.
- Book‑club ready: Big questions about justice, media, and identity—without spoilers.
- Cultural significance: A touchstone for readers of Latinx literature and American protest history.
Who It’s For Click or tap to expand
- General readers of literary fiction and counterculture classics.
- Fans of Hunter S. Thompson and New Journalism‑era narratives.
- Libraries and book clubs exploring Chicanx/Latinx literature.
Key Themes Click or tap to expand
- Justice and power; the courtroom as a battleground
- Media spectacle; satire and self‑mythmaking
- Identity, solidarity, and the Chicano movement
For Educators Click or tap to expand
- Course fit: Ethnic/Chicanx Studies, American Studies, Sociology, Legal Studies, Contemporary Lit.
- Discussion prompts: Law vs. justice in movement spaces; satire’s role in political storytelling.
- Activities: Primary‑source pairing with 1968 East L.A. walkouts coverage; mock hearing on protest rights.
The Revolt of the Cockroach People
Sale price$24.00 CAD
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The Revolt of the Cockroach People
Sale price$24.00 CAD