The Sound of Things Falling
The Sound of Things Falling
Book Brief
302
Novel • Fiction
Bogotá, Colombia • 1990s
2011
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Sound of Things Falling by Juan Gabriel Vásquez is a realist, political thriller set in 2009 Colombia, with flashbacks to the past. Law professor Antonio Yammara recounts his violent history under Pablo Escobar's corrupt regime. Triggered by a traumatic memory, Antonio must confront horrors from the 1980s and 1990s, including the mystery of drug-pilot Ricardo Laverde's murder and its ties to Colombia's drug trade. The story examines the enduring impact of Escobar's reign on the country and Antonio's life.
Melancholic
Mysterious
Contemplative
Dark
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
20,907 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Juan Gabriel Vásquez's The Sound of Things Falling grips readers with its intricate narrative and compelling prose. The novel is hailed for its deep character development and evocative depiction of Colombia’s troubled history. Some critics find its pacing slow, yet most agree it offers a profound meditation on trauma and memory, making it a poignant and thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read The Sound of Things Falling?
The Sound of Things Falling by Juan Gabriel Vásquez will captivate readers who appreciate intricate narratives woven with historical and personal introspection. Fans of Gabriel García Márquez's Love in the Time of Cholera or Roberto Bolaño's The Savage Detectives will revel in Vásquez's exploration of love, loss, and Colombia's turbulent past.
20,907 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Sound of Things Falling won the prestigious Alfaguara Prize in 2011, which is one of the most significant awards for Spanish-language literature.
The novel delves into the impact of the Colombian drug wars on personal lives, showcasing Vásquez's talent for weaving historical events with intimate storytelling.
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Juan Gabriel Vásquez has cited authors like Gabriel García Márquez and Mario Vargas Llosa as influences, which is reflected in his intricate narrative style in The Sound of Things Falling.
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302
Novel • Fiction
Bogotá, Colombia • 1990s
2011
Adult
18+ years
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