El viajero del siglo. (The Traveler of the Century)

At only 32, Spain-based Argentine writer Neuman has become a leading voice in Latin American literature. His fourth and most ambitious novel is this year's winner of the prestigious Premio Alfaguara. Hans, a traveler and translator, arrives in the fictional Central European town of Wandenburgo, where some mysterious force prevents him from leaving. There, he befriends a street musician and courts Sophie Gottlieb, daughter of a local patrician, even though she is engaged. The main accomplishment of this literary tour de force is its blending of styles and genres, from essay to history, poetry, fantasy, and eroticism. ... [T]he highly accomplished Neuman manages a lot of brilliant writing. Recommended for general fiction collections. [Spanish-language reviews, 8/15/09; originally published in trade paperback, this book is now appearing in a less expensive mass market format-Ed.]—Carlos Rodríguez Martorell, East Elmhurst, NY