“Bless Me, Ultima” is a novel by Rudolfo Anaya published in 1972. A coming-of-age story, the novel follows the protagonist, Antonio Marez, as he grapples with his identity, faith, and the complexities of life in a rural New Mexico village in the 1940s.
The novel explores themes of spirituality, family, and the balance between tradition and modernity. It has been widely acclaimed for its lyrical prose, rich characterization, and insights into the Chicano experience. The novel has been adapted into a film and an opera, and has become a staple of many high school and college curricula.
