Karen Winters Schwartz

NOTE: I won a free eBook copy of this book in MOBI format from LibraryThing's Early Reviewers (August 2020).

A charming novel about two journeys through Central America, one north-bound on a donkey and the other heading south on a tractor, separated by a span of 70 years. What starts out as an adventure with a whiff of romance for the two young protagonists evolves into a frame narrative for a coming-of-age story of the uncle of the female protagonist. The novel's strength lies in Schwartz's depiction of south Texas, Mexico, Guatemala, and Belize, which challenge each of the three main characters to adapt to new settings and make new sense out of the world. "The Legend of the Lost Ass" offers a quirky perspective on the old adage of "It's about the journey, not the destination."… (mehr)

In short, this is about a young man walking to America for love, and a young woman traveling (by tractor) to Belize for family, but, of course, it is much more. I thought it started a little slow but then I got caught up in the stories. I came to really care about the characters and the changes they went through. The author adeptly and gently wrote about our dreams for ourselves and for others, and how they impact our lives, even if we never attain them or if they change along the way. Though there are tense moments, it is generally hopeful and positive.… (mehr)

This review is an unbiased review of a book I received free of charge from LibraryThing Early Reviewers.
This is a beautifully written book about journeys made 70 years apart, each affecting the characters in profound ways. It is a story about Central America in both time periods and gives the reader a wonderful view of life in both eras. Smartly funny, this book tugs on your heart as well as entertains and educates. The characters are so well-formed that it is difficult to leave them at the end of the book. The settings are beautifully described without dullness or cliché, so that you feel as if you have taken the journeys with the characters. A story of life, loss, family, friendship, making amends and the beauty of taking a leap of faith. Wonderful writer.… (mehr)