A Gripping Memoir of Guatemala's Troubled Past and Resilient People
Author Christian Nill takes readers on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Guatemala in his new book, Walking With Evaristo: A Memoir of Celebration and Tragedy in the Land of the Achi Maya.
Set against the backdrop of the late 1970s and early 80s in Guatemala, Nill's memoir provides a deeply personal account of his time as a Peace Corps volunteer in Rabinal, a predominantly Mayan community ensnared in the throes of a brutal civil war.
The author immersed himself in the vibrant culture of Rabinal while working as an agroforestry extensionist, bearing witness to a community marked by celebration and tragedy. Walking With Evaristo is more than just a memoir; it's a poignant portrayal of the resilience of the Guatemalan people in the face of unspeakable suffering and oppression.
The book delves into three overarching themes: light, enigma, and confession. Nill celebrates the richness of Rabinal's culture, while also shedding light on the dark forces of oppression that sought to suppress its spirit. He grapples with the mystery behind enigmatic situations and events, while also reflecting on his own confessions as a man, as an actor, and as a witness.
Author Christian Nill, 2023