Juan Baires-Adair’s memoir, Citizen of the USA by Choice, offers a deeply personal account of his immigration journey from Mexico to the United States, detailing the challenges of rebuilding identity and career in a new country. The book has gained international exposure, having been featured at several major literary events, including The London Book Fair in March 2025, the Guadalajara International Book Fair in November-December 2025, and the LA Times Festival of Books and BookCon in April 2026.
The narrative begins in Mexico City, where Baires-Adair worked as a draftsman amid systemic corruption and political patronage. Frustrated by bureaucratic dysfunction and compromised governance, he made the difficult decision to leave his homeland. The memoir candidly portrays the ethical dilemmas and professional setbacks he faced, ultimately driving him to seek opportunity in the United States.
Upon arriving in the U.S., Baires-Adair encountered educational interruptions and professional barriers. Through perseverance and adaptability, he overcame these obstacles and eventually became a licensed architect. His story exemplifies the promise of merit-based success and underscores the resilience required to achieve it. The book also serves as a broader commentary on the immigrant experience, shedding light on the risks, sacrifices, and aspirations that shape the lives of those who choose to build new lives in pursuit of freedom and opportunity.
The memoir’s presence at prominent book fairs has helped expand its reach to diverse audiences. The London Book Fair, which attracted around 30,000 attendees, and the Guadalajara International Book Fair, which drew readers and literary enthusiasts from around the world, provided platforms for the book to connect with global readers. Additionally, its showcase at the LA Times Festival of Books and BookCon further strengthened its presence in the literary scene.
Published by Citi of Books, a literary boutique that began in New Mexico and now serves authors across the United States and Canada, the book is available through multiple retailers. Copies can be purchased from Citi of Books, AbeBooks, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Books-A-Million. More information is available on the book’s official website.
The memoir’s importance lies in its human-centered perspective on immigration, offering a voice for countless immigrants who face similar struggles. By documenting his personal triumph, Baires-Adair calls attention to the dignity, determination, and contributions of those who choose to become citizens by choice, not by birth. The book stands as a testament to the enduring pursuit of freedom and opportunity in the face of adversity.
