One aspect of this is clearly visible in the cultural mixing that is part of the Chicano culture but not usually part of the norm. Throughout the novel Anaya will have a character say something in Spanish. Anaya will then translate either through actual conversation or a mental translation in Antonio's mind.
The setting, characters, and context of the novel are also each unique to itself. A visitor, no matter how much in love with the area could never describe this area so clearly that the old maxim is reversed. With some of these descriptions a few words are worth a thousand pictures. Without knowledge of the area as a child it would also be nearly impossible to display so vividly what a child's role in life is out in the llano and dry farmland. The time period viewed in the frame of reference of the contemporary culture is also a visible sign of how this culture developed such a wonderful and unique writer.
The simple, unstudied manner in which Anaya unfolds the story brings it to life. The story is one that you can almost hear coming from an older gentleman as families are gathered around a campfire. Every now and then he will add a bit of detail into the young boys fooling around or a lively description of a school play to keep the story interesting but without losing its value as a serious story. This oral tradition, campfire style gives the book a feel all its own and complements the story. The exact same story told by Dickens, Steinbeck, or Grisham would not have the same affect. The style breathes life into the story.
In an answer to the original question: without a doubt, absolutely, positively, beyond an argument yes! Anyone who disagrees obviously has not read this book or any other book of a distinctly different culture.