4 out of 4 stars
Share This Review
“…but to succeed as a fugitive, you have to live many lives simultaneously…” – My Life on The Edge as an International Fugitive does not only narrate Dan Davis's many lives but makes the readers live them, too.
In 1994, Dan ‘Tito’ Davis is framed by a former friend who accuses him of possessing meth. The cops are all too eager to charge him, given his history of drug-trafficking. Rather than doing prison sentence for a crime he did not commit, he decides to flee. A detailed account of his life on the run is described in this memoir, thanks to an ‘almost photographic memory’ of Tito and a thorough research on co-author Peter Conti’s part. In terms of the vast geography Tito covered, the myriad of characters he met and the most impossible situations he faced, this book is unique even among memoirs.
Imagine spending your entire life running, always looking over your shoulder in the fear of your past catching up with you. This description pretty much fits the life of any fugitive, so what is unique about Tito’s story? Now throw into it a couple of prison sentences, guerrilla attacks, kidnappings, deals with drug lords and their cartels, a few gorgeous women, a couple of marriages, an intense love triangle, daring sports, some accounts of one-of-a-kind cultural practices in different parts of Latin America, and you will understand why describing his story as ‘interesting’ will be an understatement. Tito indeed led a colorful life unimaginable to many, even if the colors were mostly in various shades of gray. This memoir masterfully captures his fascinating life within its pages.
In spite of Tito often describing himself as ‘gringo stupido’, his ingenious mind, quick thinking, attention to details, and most of all, his survival instinct helped him in many instances. He is passionate about his love, is honest in his own way, and obviously cares for his fellows. These attributes make the reader feel strongly for him. The glimpses of Latin American people belonging to various social circles and the account of their diverse lifestyle and unique culture are mesmerizing.
In my opinion, there are a few weak points about the book. First of all, the myriad of characters Tito encounters is interesting, but overwhelming as well. I often lost track and had to go back in order to check previous references. Also, the background stories of many characters often consume a good part of the narration, making the chapters unnecessarily lengthy as well as disrupting its flow.
Autobiographies invariably provide glimpses into the socio-political, economic and cultural background and often such background is necessary to understand the protagonist’s life. But in this case, I felt there was an overload of historical facts and incidents. While I sometimes felt lost due to this, more avid readers might enjoy them.
All in all, I would rate the book 4 out of 4 stars. The few negative points I mentioned did not seem important enough to deduct points. From the technical standpoint also, I encountered only a few minor errors. I would suggest this book to the readers who enjoy autobiographies and travelogues.
Lastly, I want to share my personal feelings about a particular chapter. As an Indian woman, I was looking forward to reading about Tito’s time in India, where he went for his honeymoon at his wife’s insistence. The ordeals they had to face there include corrupt cab-drivers, leering glances, catcalls and comments from lecherous and pervert co-passengers and pedestrians, and finally, bodily assault. Now I am no stranger to this, yet reading about those terrible experiences from their point of view left me ashamed and horrified. In fact, it took me quite a while to compose myself enough to resume reading. While their way of dealing with those obscenities was inspiring, I whole-heartedly wish that no one else has to face these situations in my country.
******
Gringo
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Like Shrabastee's review? Post a comment saying so!
