Bestselling travel writer Mark D. Walker has announced that his latest e-book, 'The Guatemala Reader: Extraordinary Lives and Amazing Stories,' has achieved bestseller status in both the Guatemala History and Guatemala Travel Guides categories. The book's success underscores the growing interest in understanding the complexities of Guatemala, especially during times of political crisis and border turmoil.
Walker, a graduate of the Institute of Latin American Studies at the University of Texas in Austin, has dedicated over fifty years to studying and writing about Guatemala. His extensive experience and personal encounters with ordinary Guatemalans offer readers a nuanced understanding of the country's vibrant culture and turbulent history. At a time when Guatemala faces significant challenges to its democracy and ongoing border conflicts, Walker's insights are more relevant than ever.
Guatemala attracts millions of tourists each year, who typically begin their visits in Central America's largest city before exploring ancient Mayan ruins and contemporary Maya villages. Walker's journeys to remote areas of the country, often unseen even by locals, provide a unique and intimate perspective. His profiles of local Mayan leaders, advocates, writers, and poets enrich the reader's appreciation of this diverse nation.
Supported by maps, graphs, fact sheets, and photos, 'The Guatemala Reader' is composed of 18 stories that delve into the inner workings of Guatemalan society. The book covers a wide range of topics, from the influence of the Peace Corps over the last 60 years to the dynamics behind the current immigration crisis. It concludes with an insightful overview of Guatemala's political, cultural, and economic life, along with a new section on how individuals can make a difference through their actions and philanthropy.
The book has received glowing reviews. One 5-star reviewer described it as 'A treasure trove of things Guatemalan,' while another recommended it for anyone seeking a humanistic view of the country. Bob Graham, author of '50-50 at 50' and founder of the Katalysis Partnership and Namaste Direct, called it a 'modern-day classic.' Joe Lurie, Emeritus Executive Director of UC Berkeley's International House, praised it for offering 'inspiring escape hatches from misleading, oversimplified stereotypes' and enhancing personal and humane engagement.
Stephen Benz, Professor of English Literature at the University of New Mexico, lauded the book for its wisdom, insight, and compassion, noting that Walker is the ideal guide for those seeking a deeper understanding of Guatemala.
Walker’s previous works include 'My Saddest of Pleasures: 50 Years on the Road,' which chronicles his experiences as a young Peace Corps Volunteer and later as a professional fundraiser, and 'Different Latitudes: My Life in the Peace Corps and Beyond,' a memoir recognized by the Arizona Literary Association for Non-Fiction. His extensive portfolio includes over 20 published articles in various journals and a column in the Arizona Authors Association newsletter.
Walker's achievements and contributions to travel literature and humanitarian work make 'The Guatemala Reader' a significant addition to the understanding of Guatemala’s rich cultural tapestry and complex socio-political issues. More information about his works can be found on his website: https://millionmilewalker.com.
