A unique memoir/travelogue/reflection-on-life…Santander features
poignant short stories that, like pieces of a puzzle, create a captivating
whole exploring themes of personal growth, adventure, justice, wonder,
disillusionment, and ultimately gratitude. Although Santander recounts
a teacher’s wild exploits and perceptive musings, it appeals to anyone who has
raised or taught children, who’s traveled the world of countries and ideas (or
who’d like to live vicariously though someone who has); anyone who’s struggled
to find compassion for oneself and others; who, in the words of Robert Frost,
“had a lover’s quarrel with the world” and tried to make a difference. Santander pays
homage to living an authentic life.
“Terrified, I finally realized the federal
agents answered to no one and could do with me whatever they pleased. I thought
of the death squads who had “disappeared” so many others into the Central
American jungle.”