Review - The Guardian of Amsterdam Street by Sergio Schmucler
I received a free NetGalley of this book, but my opinions are all my own.
The Guardian of Amsterdam Street tells the story of Galo, a boy who grows into a man without leaving his home on Amsterdam Street in Mexico City. It is written from Galo’s point of view, so the reader sees the world as he sees it, first as a boy, as a teen, and then as a man. Galo is a rather unusual character, the cause of which is presumed to be a violent act he witnessed in his youth. As he grows, his thoughts and assumptions become more and more unusual. But Galo is a uniquely observant character. He encounters a microcosm of the world within his mother’s rented rooms. The people he meets with teach him about the world outside Amsterdam Street. But Amsterdam Street is Galo’s entire world. He spends his life working to protect what he loves. Ultimately, he comes to realize that he is his most important thing.
This is a story of the things that keep us stuck in our lives. It’s also a story of growing up, changing the world, and discovering self. The writing is poetic and sometimes shocking. Overall, this was an interesting look at a time and place I was unfamiliar with.
Sensitive readers should know that this book contains some violence, attempted suicide, sexual content, and adult language.
The Guardian of Amsterdam Street is available now.
