Magdalena
River of Dreams
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Vintage Publishing
Published:19th Aug '21
Should be back in stock very soon
Wade Davis's Magdalena explores Colombia's Río Magdalena, revealing the country's rich history and the resilience of its people amidst conflict.
In Magdalena, Wade Davis invites readers on a remarkable journey along the Río Magdalena, a river that has shaped the very essence of Colombia. Through his vivid storytelling, he explores the rich tapestry of Colombia's history, culture, and the indomitable spirit of its people. Davis's deep connection to the country is evident as he reflects on how Colombia was the first place that allowed him to embrace his sense of freedom.
As he navigates the mighty Magdalena, Davis encounters communities that have triumphed over decades of conflict, showcasing their resilience and unwavering love for their homeland. The narrative weaves together personal memoir, historical insight, and journalistic exploration, creating a multifaceted portrait of a nation poised for a new chapter of peace. The stunning landscapes and vibrant cultures along the river serve as a backdrop for tales of passion, violence, and ambition.
Magdalena is not just an adventure; it is a celebration of Colombia's complex identity and the enduring connections between its people and the land. Davis's eloquent prose and profound observations make this book a compelling read for anyone interested in understanding the heart and soul of Colombia, as well as the universal themes of resilience and hope that resonate throughout the narrative.
Anyone who wishes to understand this mysterious corner of the world deserves Magdalena. It is a capacious, generous and illuminating book -- —Juan Gabriel Vásquez
After all our agonies, Wade Davis, through the evocative power of his writing and the clarity of his understanding, gives us all reason to once again love Colombia. That is the wonder of his book, which in many ways reads as a love letter to a nation -- Héctor Abad, author of Oblivion
Davis stocks his lively narrative with piquant characters, dramatic historical set pieces, and lyrical nature writing. The result is a rich, fascinating study of how nature and a people shape each other * Publishers Weekly *
Shimmering... Never wincing from dark histories, yet never abandoning hope, Wade Davis shows us why Colombia stole his heart as a young traveller and holds it still -- Kate Harris, author of Lands of Lost Borders
A magnificent, hugely important book, breathtaking in its scope and vision … a masterpiece … an epic journey across the nation and into its beating heart …essential reading for anyone wanting to understand Colombia -- Anna Lewington
[Magdalena] is a rallying cry to save the Magdalena from the destructive effects of industrialisation, but it also aims to reset our impressions of the country as a whole... [Davis's] passion for Colombia is better expressed in the depth of information he delivers - and the poetic way in which he captures its extraordinary landscape. Those pondering a trip will be inspired to veer off the tourist path -- Jenny Coad * The Times *
Davis is a powerful, penetrating and immensely knowledgeable writer -- Charles Nicholl * Guardian, *Book of the Week* *
Davis suffuses his reportage with a visionary tinge. But his subject more than warrants it -- Boyd Tonkin * Financial Times *
Magdalena is a revelatory and often enchanting book * Economist *
This book is the culmination of a lifetime's work in the country and is suffused with a love and knowledge that only such long acquaintance can bring -- Hugh Thomson * Spectator *
ISBN: 9781529112214
Dimensions: 199mm x 128mm x 27mm
Weight: 326g
432 pages