Guillermoprieto is renowned for her incisive reporting from Latin America, uncovering complex political and cultural realities. Her work is characterized by a deep empathy for the lived experiences of those she covers, often undertaken at great personal risk. Through detailed chronicles, she explores social transformations, civil conflicts, and cultural dynamics, offering readers an immediate encounter with history. Her literary style is both evocative and analytical, making her a significant voice in literary journalism.
Set against the backdrop of 1970s Cuba, a young dancer embarks on a transformative journey as she teaches at the National School of Dance. In mirrorless studios, her passionate yet untrained students aspire for greatness amidst a climate of chronic shortages and revolutionary change. Through her experiences, she discovers a profound sense of purpose and resilience within the Cuban people that leaves a lasting impact on her life.
The book offers a penetrating exploration of Latin America's recent history through a collection of essays and reportage. It delves into Colombia's cocaine wars and the intricate political dynamics surrounding Fidel Castro’s long rule, showcasing the author's ability to analyze complex issues with both insight and empathy. The narratives encompass a diverse range of figures, from influential statesmen like Evita Peron to contemporary leaders such as Vicente Fox, highlighting the interplay between revolutionary movements and political factions across the region.
An extraordinarily vivid, unflinching series of portraits of South America today, written from the inside out, by the award-winning New Yorker journalist and widely admired author of Samba.