The book 'Midnight in Mexico' by Alfredo Corchado is a gripping account of a journalist's deep dive into Mexico's drug trafficking and corruption. The reviewer, Marcela Turati, praises Corchado's bravery and extensive knowledge, highlighting his unique perspective as a Mexican-American reporter. The book offers a critical look at the complex relationship between Mexico and the United States, as well as the personal risks Corchado takes to uncover the truth.
Marcela Turati's review of 'Midnight in Mexico' by Alfredo Corchado is a compelling exploration of a journalist's journey through Mexico's descent into darkness. Corchado's deep-rooted connection to Mexico, stemming from his umbilical cord being buried there, drives his relentless pursuit of the truth. The book is not just another account of drug trafficking but a personal story of a journalist obsessed with understanding and reporting on the complexities of his birthplace. Turati appreciates Corchado's bravery and the risks he takes, including facing threats and dangers, to uncover the truth about Mexico's corruption and violence. The book also provides a fascinating lesson in journalism, showcasing the process of finding, verifying, and documenting information in a high-risk environment. Corchado's U.S. citizenship offers some protection, but it does not eliminate the dangers he faces. The reviewer is struck by the contrast between the immunity granted to foreign journalists and the lack of protection for Mexican journalists. The book is a moving and uncomfortable critique of Mexico's struggles, offering a unique perspective on the country's complex relationship with the United States.
Quick quotes
They liked the book, but think some of the plot is thin
Corchado begins Midnight in Mexico by describing this threat. This is not simply one more book of the many that have been written about drug trafficking; it is the story of the spell cast over this persistent journalist who is obsessed with investigating, understanding and publishing stories about what is going on in his birthplace, always hoping that the country will get on the right track.
As a Mexican journalist, I’m struck by the immunity that a U.S. passport grants foreign journalists. It’s almost totally opposite to the situation of Mexican journalists, where no one cares if we receive threats and no one is about to dash to the rescue either.