Roberto Payró drops us into a fictional Argentine town called Pago Chico at the turn of the 20th century. The story follows a journalist from the big city who arrives expecting provincial quiet. What he finds is a whole ecosystem of social climbing, political scheming, and petty rivalries. Through a series of connected sketches, we meet the local doctor who wants to be a senator, the newspaper editor stirring the pot, and a cast of characters all trying to outmaneuver each other for status and influence.

Why You Should Read It

This book is sharp, funny, and sadly timeless. Payró isn't just writing about Argentina in 1908; he's writing about how people behave in any small, closed community. The characters aren't evil—they're just flawed, vain, and wonderfully human. You'll recognize the know-it-all, the gossip, the social climber, and the idealist who gets worn down. The humor is dry and observational, making you laugh while you nod in recognition.

Final Verdict

Perfect for readers who enjoy character-driven stories and social satire. If you like books that explore the comedy and tragedy of everyday life, or if you've ever lived in a small town and watched local politics up close, you'll feel right at home in Pago Chico. It's a classic that doesn't feel dusty, and a reminder that some parts of human nature never change.