Signs Preceding the End of the World

by Yuri Herrera
Signs Preceding the End of the World cover
Good Books rating 3.83
Magical Realism
Technical:
  • ID: 659
  • Added: 2025-09-18
  • Updated: 2025-09-18
  • ISBN: 9781908276421
  • Publisher: And Other Stories (P408)
  • Published: 2015-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £8.99

In 'Signs Preceding the End of the World,' a streetwise young woman sets out on a daring quest to locate her brother, who has mysteriously disappeared. Her journey takes her through treacherous landscapes and into the heart of both mythical and criminal realms, revealing the resilience and determination of the human spirit. The novel blends elements of magical realism with a gripping narrative, exploring themes of identity, migration, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. /n/nThe protagonist's adventure is not just a physical journey but also an introspective one, as she confronts the complexities of her own identity and the boundaries that separate one world from another. The story is a powerful exploration of the human condition, set against the backdrop of the stark realities of migration and the search for belonging.

Reviews
Kara Reviews · Kara Babcock · 2023-06-02
profound 3.00

The novel is a profound exploration of borders, transgressions, and transformation. The protagonist's journey is both personal and universal.

Kara Babcock finds the novel to be a profound exploration of borders and the human experience. The journey of Makina is not just a physical crossing from Mexico to the United States but also a transformation that resonates deeply. The reviewer appreciates how the novel delves into themes of transgression and the blurred lines between different worlds. They also note the beautiful and evocative language used, which adds depth to the narrative.

Quick quotes

    This is a novel about borders, transgressions, and transformation.

    Makina's journey is both personal and universal.

    The language is beautiful and evocative, adding depth to the narrative.

Tony's Reading List · 2016-05-02
powerful 4.50

Despite its slim size, the book is packed with powerful themes and vivid imagery. The reviewer found it to be a deeply moving read.

The reviewer was struck by the power and depth of this slim novel. They found it to be a deeply moving read, with a lot going on beneath the surface. The vivid imagery and powerful themes make it a memorable experience. The reviewer appreciates how the book manages to convey so much in such a concise format, making it a standout read. They also note the emotional impact of the story, which stays with the reader long after finishing the book.

Quick quotes

    I read this when it first came out and found it a hugely powerful read.

    For such a slim book there's certainly a lot going on in it.

    The vivid imagery and powerful themes make it a memorable experience.

The Guardian · 2015-04-22
engrossing 4.00

The novel is rich and strange, taking on mythological proportions through the journey of a young woman. It offers a unique perspective on migration and borders.

This reviewer found the novel to be a captivating exploration of migration and borders. The journey of the protagonist is filled with rich, strange, and mythological elements that make the story compelling. The reviewer appreciates how the novel transcends the typical narrative of migration, offering a unique and thought-provoking perspective. They also highlight the vivid and imaginative language used throughout the book, which enhances the overall reading experience.

Quick quotes

    A young woman's journey to bring her brother back from the States takes on mythological proportions in this rich, strange novel.

    It is a story that transcends the typical narrative of migration.

    Herrera's vivid and imaginative language brings the journey to life.

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