Book Review #16: The Motorcycle Diaries by Ernesto "Che" Guevara

The Motorcycle Diaries is a travel memoir by Ernesto "Che" Guevara, written while he was a medical student at the University of Buenos Aires. The book chronicles his 1952 journey through South America with his friend Alberto Granado on a dilapidated 1939 Norton 500 motorcycle, nicknamed "La Poderosa" ("The Powerful One").

The book is divided into two parts. The first part is a series of letters Guevara wrote to his family and friends while on the road. The second part is a more reflective account of his journey, written after he returned to Argentina.

In his letters, Guevara describes the beauty and poverty of South America. He is particularly struck by the plight of the indigenous peoples, who are often exploited and marginalized. He also writes about his own personal growth, as he learns to appreciate the simple things in life and to challenge his own prejudices.

The second part of the book is more philosophical, as Guevara reflects on the meaning of life and the importance of social justice. He is critical of the United States and its influence on Latin America. He also discusses his own political beliefs, which are becoming increasingly radical.

The Motorcycle Diaries is a classic of travel literature. It is a well-written and insightful account of a young man's journey of discovery. Guevara's writing is both humorous and thought-provoking, and he provides a unique perspective on South America in the 1950s.

The book has been praised for its honesty and its depiction of Guevara's transformation from a carefree student into a revolutionary leader. It has also been criticized for its portrayal of Guevara's elitism and his lack of compassion for the poor.

Despite its critics, The Motorcycle Diaries remains a popular and influential book. It has been translated into over 20 languages and has been adapted into a feature film. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in travel literature, Latin American history, or the life of Ernesto "Che" Guevara.

Here are some of the things that make The Motorcycle Diaries a great book:

• Guevara's writing is engaging and insightful. He is a keen observer of the world around him, and he has a knack for capturing the essence of a place or a people in just a few words.
• The book is full of adventure and excitement. Guevara and Granado's journey is a thrilling one, and they encounter many challenges and setbacks along the way.
• The book is a valuable historical document. It provides a firsthand account of South America in the early 1950s, a time of great social and political upheaval.

Overall, The Motorcycle Diaries is a highly recommended book. It is a must-read for anyone interested in travel, history, or politics.

Here are some quotes from the book:

• "The roads are my home. The roads are my country."
• "The only thing more dangerous than traveling is not traveling at all."
• "To travel is to live."