A Story that Stays With You!

Mexican writer Alvaro Enrigue’s “Now I Surrender” is a significant historical narrative that explores the Apache Wars and the impacts of imperialism. The story starts in 1836 with the kidnapping of widow Camila Ezguerra in Janos, pursued by Lt. Col. José María Zuloaga, known for his actions against Apaches. The narrative shifts between Zuloaga’s mission and the 1886 surrender of Geronimo, incorporating perspectives from historical figures like President Grover Cleveland, who expresses frustration over Geronimo’s evasion, and Pancho Villa, who reflects on learning military tactics from Geronimo’s legacy. The author also interweaves his modern road trip across America, visiting significant sites like Geronimo’s tomb, in an effort to unearth the history of genocide in the Americas.

This was my first time reading this author, and it honestly felt like stepping into a world I didn’t fully understand before. I thought I knew a bit about the history between Mexico and the American borderlands, but this book showed me how little I actually knew. It brings out the lives of Apaches, Mexicans, and Americans with such clarity that it almost feels like watching history unfold in real time.

The story moves through three different threads, and at first, I wasn’t sure how they would come together. The part that pulled me in the most was the Apache raid in 1836, where a widow is taken by a powerful chief. The rescue mission that follows is wild, tense, and full of energy. I was completely hooked here and honestly could have read an entire novel just based on this one storyline.

The second thread follows the long chase and eventual surrender of Geronimo. This part was interesting in terms of history, but I struggled a bit with it. It felt slow at times, with long stretches of marching and repetition. Still, there were moments that stood out, especially when it showed the inner strength and presence of the Apache leaders.

The third thread is set in the present day, where a writer travels with his family through the same lands, trying to understand the past. I found this part quiet but meaningful. It added a personal touch and made the story feel more real, like the past was still echoing into the present.

What I truly loved about this book is the writing. It is rich without being heavy, and the characters feel alive and natural. There were also small surprises, like the gunslinging nun, who became one of my favourite characters. The mix of humor, violence, and beauty made the story feel full and real.

In the end, this was not an easy or fast read, but it was worth it. It feels like both a novel and a history lesson, showing the rise and fall of a people and their way of life. Even with a few slow parts, I came away impressed and a little overwhelmed. It’s a strong, powerful book that stays with you long after you finish it.

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