I am seeking support for the completion of my book, A Chainsaw in the Garden of Evita©, a memoir and cultural-political exploration of Argentina set against the backdrop of my travels across the country in 2007-’08.
This extraordinary journey to the heart of the Americas ranges from the ancient history of the remote desert-like puna in the heart of the Andes, through the post-WWII rise of Juan and Eva Perón up to the disruptive ascendance of current President Javier Milei.
My journal from a transformative year living, traveling and producing short documentary films across Argentina forms the backbone of the book and is used as a springboard to explore how this beautiful country’s turbulent political history has culminated in a president brandishing a symbolic chainsaw, not just threatening, but promising, to dismantle Peronismo and the legacy of Eva Perón.
WHY?
My book seeks to answer this question in unique ways. It is more than just a personal story—it is an entertaining and riveting exploration of the broader international implications of Argentina’s political shifts, highlighting how its history mirrors global trends of populism, disruption, and the challenge of balancing political ideals with economic realities.
The book is also much more than a mere recital of news headlines or a tired rehash of our current dystopian politics. Argentina’s nearly mystical ancient history is explored in startling new ways, from recent geo-biological discoveries in the puna that scientists believe may hold the keys to the origins of life on earth, to sacrificial rituals by our ancient Andean ancestors that offer sobering lessons that go to the meaning and value of human life today.
As I return to Argentina to finish the manuscript, I need $18,000 in funding to cover final research and travel, editing and design costs, and publication efforts over the next six months. With your support, I will offer readers an absolutely unique, ground-level view of a country at a political crossroads and illuminate how the struggles and triumphs of Argentina echo far beyond its borders.
I understand that these are challenging times for many, and I don’t make this request for funding lightly. You will not be disappointed, and I will keep you updated on the progress of the book.
If you’d like to learn more about the project or have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out. I’m happy to share more details, answer questions and to talk or brainstorm with you.
Donation totals will be updated weekly on this webpage.
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ZELLE TO: michael@reimaginingpolitics.org
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