This is a very readable journey through South America, with each chapter looking at a different country in relation to a specific theme. For example, Chile is examined through the eyes of women and Bolivia from the perspective of the poor. The author's commentary on Colombia is particularly hard-hittting, concentrating as it does on the human rights record over recent history. The whole book refers back constantly to Simon Bolivar's activities and thoughts as he too travelled throughout the continent, shaping its future along the way.
Highly recommended for intelligent insight into the character and at times surprising underbelly of South America.