One of the great pleasures of going on holidays is having the time to indulge in some holiday reading. A good book helps pass the time on long journeys and is an enjoyable way to brush up on your knowledge of the history, geography and culture of the country to which you are travelling. With its deep historical and cultural roots, Latin American literature offers a wealth of knowledge to readers whilst immersing the reader in rich storylines that capture the beauty of the Latin American landscape. Here are 5 of our favourites:
Lost World by Patricia Melo
Former contract killer and fugitive, Máiquel, sets out on a journey to avenge his ex-girlfriend’s betrayal after she left him for another man ten years previously taking his only daughter. A dark tale of revenge, the pursuit of his family takes him through Brazil and Bolivia exposing the reality of the Brazilian underworld.
The Motorcycle Diaries by Ernesto ‘Che’ Guevara
Written eight years before the Cuban revolution, The Motorcycle Diaries is the story of two men, twenty-three-year-old Che Guevara and thirty-year-old Alberto Granado and their adventures as they set out to discover South America on a motorcycle. Although the whole world would soon know his name, Che’s diaries are full of drama, unexpected events and comedy typical of a road trip across South America.
The Fruit Palace by Charles Nicholl
Set in early 80’s Columbia, Nicholl sets out in search of ‘the great cocaine story’. This true story begins at the Fruit Palace, a gloomy café that doubles as a meeting point for dodgy dealings. Informative and well-written, Nicholl’s vivid descriptions of the landscape and people bring Columbia to life for the reader.
Death In the Andes by Mario Vargas Llosa
After the mysterious disappearance of three men from an isolated community in the Peruvian Andes, soldiers Lituma and Tomás are sent to the town to protect its people from the Shining Path guerrillas who are suspected to be responsible. The narrative is fragmented into two stories; their investigation of the disappearances in the town and the story of Thomasito’s love for a prostitute called Mercedes creating a powerful and captivating tale. Striking descriptions of contemporary Peru offer the reader a panoramic view of Peruvian society reflecting on its historical and political roots.
Tequila Oil by Hugh Thomson
Tequila Oil is an account of Thomson’s fascinating adventures getting lost in Mexico and his discovery of a side of Mexican life rarely seen by holiday makers. Both informative and enthralling, Thomson’s journey reveals a deeper insight into Mexican culture and history venturing into the jungles of Yucatan where he encounters the Maya. Upon his return some years later, Thomson has a greater understanding of the history of Mexico exploring recent archaeological revelations about the Maya and Aztecs.
Author: Clodagh O’ Brien