Books Like...

Yuri Herrera's 'Trabajos del reino' is a novella that delves into the life of a Mexican drug lord and his court, drawing parallels to medieval times where power, authority, and illicit desires reign supreme. The story follows a singer who becomes known as the Artist in the drug lord's entourage, navigating a world of luxury, manipulation, and moral dilemmas. Through the use of titles instead of names for characters, Herrera weaves a tale of suspense and intrigue, shedding light on the societal ties to the drug lords in Mexico.

'Martin Fierro' by Jose Hernandez is an epic poem that depicts the life of a Gaucho in Argentina who faces mistreatment, exploitation, and betrayal by society. The protagonist, Martin Fierro, loses his home, family, and freedom when he is conscripted, leading him to rebel against the unfair treatment he receives. The book is divided into two parts, with the first part focusing on Martin Fierro's struggles and confrontations with authority figures, while the second part delves into the lives of his sons and other gaucho characters. The writing style of the book is in verse, reflecting the language and speech of the Gauchos, and is narrated by a guitar player, adding a musical element to the storytelling.

'Dona Barbara' by Romulo Gallegos is a novel that delves into the gaucho culture of Venezuela, set in a time and place that vividly brings the South American plains to life. The book portrays a love triangle that is described as both ludicrous and intriguing, involving complex characters with three-dimensional personalities. The story unfolds like a slow-motion telenovela, offering a glimpse into the lives of average Latin American people, their struggles, and their relationships.

The novel is praised for its beautiful and descriptive writing style that captures the essence of the South American landscape and its inhabitants. Despite some criticisms of the translation being stilted, the book is commended for providing a fascinating picture of a specific historical period and cultural setting. The plot is filled with intrigue, mystery, and elements of magical realism, making it a compelling read for those interested in exploring the complexities of human nature and societal dynamics.

On Argentina by Alfred MacAdam, Jorge Luis Borges, and Suzanne Jill Levine seems to be a collection of essays and writings focused on Argentina, its culture, landscape, and renowned literary figures such as Borges and Julio Cortazar. The book appears to delve into the rich literary tradition of Argentina, exploring the works of influential authors and their impact on the global literary scene. The writing style is described as baroque and inaccessible at times, with a focus on idea-based, weird short stories and exploring philosophical concepts through short stories.

'La Fiesta del Chivo' by Mario Vargas Llosa is a historical fiction work that delves into the final days of the brutal Trujillo regime in the Dominican Republic. Through multiple perspectives, including that of Trujillo himself, the conspirators plotting his assassination, and characters like Urania returning to confront her past, the novel paints a vivid picture of the tyrannical dictator's reign and its aftermath. The narrative is structured with alternating timelines, providing a deep exploration of the inner workings of a ruthless dictatorship and the impact it had on individuals' lives.

The author, Mario Vargas Llosa, weaves together a compelling storyline that showcases the intricate web of power, fear, and corruption under Trujillo's rule. offers a raw and disturbing portrayal of the atrocities committed during the regime, while also delving into the psychological effects of living under a dictatorship. With a mix of historical accuracy and fictionalized elements, 'La Fiesta del Chivo' immerses readers in a gripping narrative that illuminates the complexities of political power and personal struggles in the face of tyranny.

Set in Malaysia during WWII, 'The Gift of Rain' follows the story of Philip Hutton, a young man of mixed heritage who finds himself caught in the complexities of divided loyalties. As he navigates his relationships with his family, his community, and his Japanese sensei, the novel delves into themes of wartime lies, loyalties, and the impacts of choices made during trying times. Tan Twan Eng's evocative writing style brings to life the lush descriptions of the island setting and the intricate relationships portrayed in the book.

Young Philip's journey through the war, his struggles with identity and loyalty, and the heartbreaking consequences of his decisions are at the heart of 'The Gift of Rain'. The novel explores the bonds between characters, the complexities of wartime relationships, and the internal conflicts faced by the protagonist as he grapples with his sense of belonging and duty. Tan Twan Eng weaves a poignant tale of love, tragedy, and the enduring impacts of personal and political relationships set against the backdrop of wartime Malaysia.

Zorro by Isabel Allende is an origin story that delves deep into the characters, particularly focusing on Diego and his friend Bernardo. The book is set in a historical context, portraying Spain vividly and incorporating Native American culture brilliantly. The plot follows Diego's journey from his childhood in Alta California to his adventures in Spain, highlighting themes of love, honor, justice, and the fight against injustices of the rich.

Collected Fictions by Jorge Luis Borges is a collection of short stories that delve into fantastical worlds, odd realities, and philosophical musings. Borges weaves intricate narratives filled with paradoxes, gaucho knife fights, labyrinths, and infinite libraries. His writing style is described as mind-bending, deeply memorable, and engaging, touching on themes of history, the life of the mind, and the blurred lines between fantasy and reality. The stories are often dense, thought-provoking, and sometimes eerie, resonating with readers on a profound level.

Ficciones by Jorge Luis Borges is a collection of short stories that delve into imaginative and thought-provoking realms, exploring concepts such as missing encyclopedia entries, expansive imaginary worlds, and the blurring of reality and fiction. Borges' writing style is described as powerful, dense, and philosophical, with stories that challenge readers to think deeply about literature, language, and the nature of knowledge. The book is a labyrinth of intricate narratives, surreal settings, and metafictional elements that push the boundaries of traditional storytelling.