Yuri Herrera’s Signs Preceding the End of the World is lauded for its poetic prose and evocative narrative, vividly capturing themes of migration and identity. Critics appreciate its brevity and depth, though some find the symbolism heavy-handed and the plot too abstract. Overall, it's a thought-provoking, richly imagined work that resonates with contemporary issues.

Readers who enjoy Signs Preceding the End of the World by Yuri Herrera typically appreciate thought-provoking, lyrical narratives that delve into themes of migration, identity, and transformation. Fans of Roberto Bolaño's The Savage Detectives or Junot Díaz's The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao will find this novella captivating.

Signs Preceding the End of the World by Yuri Herrera follows Makina, who navigates perilous terrain to find her brother, crossing from South to North. Along the way, she faces threats, helps others, and ultimately finds her brother, who has assumed a new identity. She then embarks on her own transformation, leaving behind her past life to embrace a new identity in an unfamiliar land. The book contains strong language, violence, sexual harassment, and racism.

Mysterious / Dark / Contemplative / Melancholic / Fantastical

- Signs Preceding the End of the World was originally written in Spanish and is titled "Señales que precederán al fin del mundo," and it was translated into English by Lisa Dillman, earning her the Best Translated Book Award in 2016.
- Yuri Herrera has mentioned in interviews that the novel was inspired by both Aztec mythology and the structure of the Mexican corrido, a traditional form of narrative song.
- The book's protagonist's journey was inspired by the experiences of Mexican migrants, and Herrera has emphasized the importance of keeping Mexican literary and migrant narratives authentic and dignified.

**Makina**  
An intelligent and resourceful switchboard operator in Little Town who plays a crucial role as a messenger between community members and heads on a transformative journey to the North.

**Makina’s Brother**  
A character who ventures North seeking inheritance, finding himself in a complicated situation that reflects his struggle with identity and belonging.

**Chucho**  
A wiry and strong man who assists Makina on her journey, embodying loyalty and resilience, with metaphorical links to Aztec mythology.

**Cora**  
A comforting and protective figure in Makina's life, influential within Little Town's community, and supportive of her children's well-being.

**Mr. Aitch**  
A top-dog in Little Town who runs a pulque bar and becomes involved in Makina's journey with complex ties to political corruption and personal motives.

**Mr. Double-U**  
A top-dog with a positive relationship with Makina due to past assistance from her mother, operating from a Turkish bath in Little Town.

**Mr. Q**  
A precise and cryptic speaker among Little Town's top-dogs, involved in local political affairs and known for reading newspapers at his restaurant.

**Mr. P**  
A former Little Town top-dog now operating in a stadium, who interacts with Makina during her mission to the North.

Yuri Herrera

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Overview

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Signs Preceding the End of the World Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-3

Signs Preceding the End of the World Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 4-6

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Chapters 7-9

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Character Analysis

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Themes

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Symbols & Motifs

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Introduction

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