In the first 15 percent of the book, I struggled to connect to the author's writing about his family despite the author's emphasis on the struggle and trauma of his family's history. The writing repetitively used family curses, wanderings, and inner demons to describe feelings and experiences.

From about 15 - 60 % of the book, there is more emphasis on the music history of corrido and conjunto music. Álvarez brings up songs and musicians that I have heard most of my life within my own family, and this book made me look at this music with a different view. I had never really thought about them from a social and political point of view. I wondered what these songs mean to my family and the community that listens to them. Do they also feel connected to the pain and struggle represented in these songs? 

As Álvarez goes on his journey to meet his elusive grandfather, he travels to different places (Louisiana, Ireland, Texas, Mexico) where accordion music has a history and learns from other accordionists. It was interesting to read about the different music styles of accordion music and how musicians are trying to keep the tradition alive in the modern day with younger generations. The last 60% had an impressive narrative as Álvarez finally reached Mexico to search for his grandfather. The experiences and writing in this section were highly engaging.

This memoir is beautifully and lyrically written, tugging at your heartstrings. It's a unique and impactful read that will stay with me for a long time.