The Great Divide

Great story! Loved every character. I will place this in my “read again” pile.

What I was expecting from this historical novel: an indictment of toxic American colonialism as demonstrated by the building of the Panama Canal, regardless of its toll it on the country's natural beauty and its people.

What I got: Yes, that. But also a multi-character, warm-hearted and somehow hopeful story of early 20th century Caribbean life. A significant portion of the book takes place in Barbados, source of many Canal workers. Some of the Panamanian scenes are set in cities and villages that are far from the building site, highlighting native customs and traditions that are in jeopardy. There are the expected examples of American racism, carelessness and cruelty, but there are also chapters devoted to complex family relationships and futile but empowering resistance. The whole thing is sprinkled with a touch of magical realism and garnished with a positive outcome for most of the characters, despite the dubious impact of one country buying a poorer one to satiate its greed.

YMMV if you don't like novels with almost a dozen POV characters.