Infinite Country: A Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick

In Infinite Country, a novel by Patricia Engel, a mixed-status family navigates the complexities of life in two countries, Colombia and the United States, following the deportation of one of the parents. The story explores themes of family, war, and migration and is described as a knockout of a novel that will be viewed as one of the best of 2021.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 14 April 2022
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Ltd

A novel that is truly remarkable, we anticipate that [ Infinite Country ] will be regarded as one of the finest works of 2021. -- O,The Oprah Magazine

An exquisitely crafted tale that explores themes of family, war, and migration, this novel is a must-read for our increasingly divided country. --R.O. Kwon, Electric Literature

I often find myself contemplating whether we are living the wrong life in the wrong country.

Talia is currently being held at a correctional facility for adolescent girls located in the forested mountains of Colombia, following an impulsive act of violence that may or may not have been justified. She is in urgent need of escaping and returning home to Bogotá, where her father and a plane ticket to the United States are eagerly waiting for her. Failure to catch her flight could potentially result in her missing the opportunity to reunite with her family in the northern part of the country.

The intricate narrative unfolds, revealing how this family has traversed two distinct countries, two vastly different worlds. We witness the romantic encounter between Mauro and Elena, two teenagers, amidst the backdrop of civil war and social unrest. They embark on a journey, leaving Bogotá with their firstborn, Karina, in search of safety and better opportunities in the United States on a temporary visa. Subsequently, two more children, Nando and Talia, are born on American soil. Through the course of events, Mauro's deportation occurs, leading to the family's fragmentation, a burden they have carried ever since.

Award-winning and internationally acclaimed author Patricia Engel, herself a dual citizen and the daughter of Colombian immigrants, skillfully portrays the voices of all five family members as they navigate the unique circumstances of their lives. Meanwhile, a constant metronome ticks in the background, adding an element of suspense to the narrative.

The central question remains: Will Talia successfully make it to Bogotá in time? And if she does, can she find the strength to abandon her solitary existence and reunite with her family?

In conclusion, [ Infinite Country ] is a remarkable novel that offers a profound exploration of family, war, and migration. It is a testament to the resilience and strength of human beings in the face of adversity. This book is a must-read for anyone who seeks to understand the complexities of contemporary global issues and the profound impact they have on individuals and families.

Weight: 192g
Dimension: 131 x 197 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781398506657