News of a Kidnapping

It is a testament to the author's artistry that the scenes that follow are never merely sensational. Brilliantly paced, strewn with memorable characters and situations, the narrative leaves us laughing, sometimes weeping, but never quite sure of where it will take us next. It brings together a few other books do such disparate elements as kidnappings, drug trafficking, political intrigue, terrorism, old-fashioned swashbuckling adventure, and even a bit of social satire. The precision and power of Garcí­a Márquez's storytelling are irresistible. This novel is a masterpiece.