cover image El Coronel Fue Echado al Mar = The Colonel Was Thrown Into the Sea

El Coronel Fue Echado al Mar = The Colonel Was Thrown Into the Sea

Luis Spota. Grupo Oceano, $14.95 (143pp) ISBN 978-970-651-334-2

Toward the end of World War II, the Anne Louise departs from a port in England. Shrouded in secrecy, the ship is headed for an unknown destination under the command of the infamously unlucky Stanton C. Davies. The cargo includes a shipload of men injured in battle, many close to death, who are being held in a part of the ship that is off-limits. Within hours, the crew, an odd mix of battle-scarred patriots from Europe, the United States, and Mexico, becomes uneasy when some of the patients start dying but no plans are made for burial at sea. Meanwhile, the ship's menu is filled with overflowing platters of rich, juicy, and delicious red meat cooked in a variety of appetizing ways. What is happening to the bodies? Why does the quantity of meat served each day seem to fluctuate? The tale of 11 mysterious and unforgettable days aboard the Anne Louise is narrated by a nameless and na ve young Mexican sailor whose disbelief and fear add fervor to the narration. With vivid characters, tight dialog, and an easy pace, Spota (La Plaza/The Square) brings the suspense and mystery to a surprising conclusion. This was Spota's first novel, written in 1947 when the author was barely 20 years old, and it was a resounding success, establishing him as one of Mexico's premier writers. This new edition will bring new fans to the oldest of Spota's works. Highly recommended for public and academic libraries. Yolanda Cuesta, Sacramento, CA