Santander

What if you should have died before you were even born? What if, since you knew you were living on borrowed time, you'd lived, taught, traveled and wondered outrageously? Why, sixty years later you'd have one hell of a good story!

A unique memoir/travelogue/reflection-on-life, Santander features poignant short stories that, like pieces of a puzzle, create a captivating whole exploring themes of personal growth, adventure, justice, wonder, disillusionment, and ultimately gratitude. Although Santander recounts a teacher's wild exploits and perceptive musings, it appeals to anyone who has raised or taught children, who's traveled the world of countries and ideas (or who'd like to live vicariously through someone who has); anyone who's struggled to find compassion for oneself and others; who, in the words of Robert Frost, "had a lover's quarrel with the world" and tried to make a difference. Santander pays homage to living an authentic life.

From Santander:
"Terrified, I finally realized the federal agents answered to no one and could do with me whatever they pleased. I thought of the death squads who had "disappeared" so many others into the Central American jungle."

"I was filled with awe and gratitude, but with sadness, too...the constant companions, it seems to me, of anyone who dares to travel with an open mind and heart through the world, through history, and through life."

"Children all have that same amazing power over me-not only to make me laugh, but to make me believe in myself, in them, and in life."