Super Short Summary

The Devil’s Highway by Luis Alberto Urrea tells the harrowing story of a group of men, known as the Wellton 26, who attempt to cross the brutal desert stretch called the Devil’s Highway from Mexico into the United States. They fall victim to false promises made by Coyotes, criminal guides who profit from their desperation. Their journey, marred by deadly mistakes, ends in tragedy for most, highlighting the plight of undocumented immigrants and the complex, often harsh realities of border politics. This book explores themes of immigration, mortality, and the intersection of human desires with unforgiving environments. The narrative involves sensitive topics, including death and extreme suffering.