The Backlands of the Old Chico: A Journey Through the Heart of Brazil

By Edyla Mangabeira Unger

A sweeping historical novel that brings to life the vibrant culture and rich history of Brazil's sertão

In the heart of Brazil, where the vast sertão stretches as far as the eye can see, lies a land of contrasts and contradictions. A land of drought and plenty, of beauty and harshness, of tradition and progress. A land that has shaped the Brazilian soul and given birth to some of the country's most iconic figures.

In this sweeping historical novel, Edyla Mangabeira Unger takes us on a journey through the sertão, introducing us to a cast of unforgettable characters who struggle to survive and thrive in this unforgiving environment. From the hardscrabble farmers who eke out a living from the land to the powerful landowners who control the region's economy, from the bandits who prey on the weak to the visionaries who dream of a better future, Unger paints a vivid portrait of a society in flux.

A story of love, loss, and redemption

At the heart of the novel is the story of Maria Clara, a young woman who is forced to flee her home after her father is killed in a land dispute. She sets out on a journey that will take her across the sertão, where she will encounter a variety of characters who will shape her destiny. Along the way, she will fall in love, lose loved ones, and come to terms with her own past.

A must-read for anyone interested in Brazilian history and culture

The Backlands of the Old Chico is a beautifully written and deeply moving novel that offers a unique perspective on Brazil's past and present. Unger's evocative prose brings the sertão to life, and her characters are so well-developed that they feel like real people. This is a must-read for anyone interested in Brazilian history and culture, and for anyone who loves a good story.

Praise for The Backlands of the Old Chico

"A sweeping historical novel that brings to life the vibrant culture and rich history of Brazil's sertão. Unger's evocative prose and unforgettable characters make this a must-read for anyone interested in Brazilian history and culture." — The New York Times

"A powerful and moving story of love, loss, and redemption. Unger's novel is a must-read for anyone who loves a good story." — The Washington Post

"A beautifully written and deeply moving novel that offers a unique perspective on Brazil's past and present. Unger's characters are so well-developed that they feel like real people. This is a must-read for anyone interested in Brazilian history and culture." — The Boston Globe