SPACE RACE

Luis Reyes, author of “Hispanics in Hollywood: An Encyclopedia of Film and Television,” mistakenly states that “Star Trek” had no Latinos (Film Clips, Jan. 1). His claim, frequently voiced by comedian Paul Rodriguez, is not true.

The original pilot for the series, “Menagerie,” included a navigator named Jose Tyler. In the two-part TV remake of “Menagerie,” Spock’s court-martial was presided over by Commodore Jose Mendez. Other episodes also featured Latino roles or actors and actresses, including the incomparable Ricardo Montalban as Khan in “Space Seed.”

GARY EMBREY

Hawthorne

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Although it’s great to learn that Reyes’ encyclopedia has now been published, your article ignores the most ironic aspect of the situation: that there were more Latino stars during the ‘20s Silent Era than at any other time in motion picture history.

To name just a few: Ramon Novarro, Dolores Del Rio, Antonio Moreno, Duncan Renaldo, Lupe Velez, Don Alvarado, Leo Carrillo, Raquel Torres.

The only regrettable facet of Reyes’ encyclopedia is the cost: $95. Can’t the text be reprinted in paperback, enabling rank-and-file Latinos to buy copies? In the current economy, how many families can afford $95, even for a book designed to bolster their self-pride?

DAVID R. MOSS

Los Angeles

As the article pointed out, the encyclopedia was printed in a very limited edition in hardback, intended to be made available to libraries and research institutions only, not for sale to the general public. Paperback rights are still in discussion.