33 pages • 1 hour read
The Devil's Highway
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Book Brief
239
Book • Nonfiction
Arizona-Mexico border • 2000s
2004
Adult
18+ years
890L
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.
Dark
Gritty
Unnerving
Challenging
Informative
Reviews & Readership
19,697 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Luis Alberto Urrea's The Devil's Highway is lauded for its compelling narrative and in-depth journalistic research on a tragic border crossing. Critics praise its humanizing portrayal of migrants and gripping storytelling. However, some feel the detailed exposition impacts the narrative pace. Overall, it's a powerful exploration of immigration issues with emotional and factual depth.
Who Should Read The Devil's Highway?
Readers who would enjoy Luis Alberto Urrea's The Devil's Highway often appreciate powerful narratives centered on immigration, human rights, and border politics. They may also be drawn to works like John Steinbeck's The Grapes of Wrath and Sonia Nazario's Enrique's Journey, which explore similar themes of hardship, resilience, and socio-political issues.
19,697 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Walkers
The Walkers
A group of individuals whose personal stories are largely overshadowed by the circumstances they face, representing a composite of needs and dreams.
Daniel Cerca (Chespiro)
Daniel Cerca (Chespiro)
The intimidating boss of Don Moi, embodying traits of a loan shark and mob enforcer while overseeing the Coyotes.
Mendez
Mendez
A guide for the walkers on the Devil’s Highway, drawn into the coyote life by allurements of wealth and thrill, but ultimately makes dire mistakes.
Rodrigo Maradona
Rodrigo Maradona
A part-time Coyote with extensive knowledge of the Devil's Highway who plays a role in enticing Mendez into the coyote role but is absent on the crucial day of the walk.
Lauro
Lauro
An inexperienced Coyote believed to influence Mendez’s decision-making during the crisis but unable to provide substantial help.
Rita Vargas
Rita Vargas
A compassionate Mexican Consul who ensures that the walkers receive fair treatment at the hospital and stands up against unjust interrogations.
239
Book • Nonfiction
Arizona-Mexico border • 2000s
2004
Adult
18+ years
890L
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