The Beast.

"The Beast: Riding the Rails and Dodging Narcos on the Migrant Trail" by Óscar Martínez offers an unflinching and harrowing journey through the perilous path many Central American migrants take to reach the United States, with a particular focus on those fleeing violence and poverty in El Salvador. Martínez delivers a gripping, on-the-ground narrative that sheds light on the dangers these migrants face, from deadly train rides atop "La Bestia" to encounters with ruthless narcos and corrupt officials. This powerful account not only highlights the extreme risks but also underscores the desperation fueling the exodus from El Salvador, providing critical insights into the broader human impact of the migration crisis.