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Escobar: The Inside Story of Pablo Escobar, The World's Most Powerful Criminal
Murderer, philanthropist, drug dealer, politician, devil, saint: many words have been used to describe Pablo Escobar, but one is irrefutable - legend. For the poor of Colombia, he was their Robin Hood, a man whose greatness lay not in his crimes, but in his charity; for the Colombian rich he was just a bloodthirsty gangster, a Bogie Man used to scare children in their beds; for the rest of the world flush with his imported cocaine, he was Public Enemy Number 1.
During his reign as the world's most notorious outlaw, he ordered the murder of thousands - at one point even bombing a passenger jet - smuggled drugs into the US in mini-submarines inspired by Bond films, was elected to parliament, staged midnight escapes through the jungle from whole army battalions, built his own prison, consorted with presidents, controlled an estimated fortune of over $20 billion, and for over 3 years outwitted the secret American forces sent to kill him. His ambition was as boundless as his violence, and neither was ever satisfied.
This is the first major, and definitive, biography of this remarkable criminal life, told in jaw-dropping detail by the one man who, more than any other, can understand just how far he came and just how low he fell: his brother, Roberto Escobar.
During his reign as the world's most notorious outlaw, he ordered the murder of thousands - at one point even bombing a passenger jet - smuggled drugs into the US in mini-submarines inspired by Bond films, was elected to parliament, staged midnight escapes through the jungle from whole army battalions, built his own prison, consorted with presidents, controlled an estimated fortune of over $20 billion, and for over 3 years outwitted the secret American forces sent to kill him. His ambition was as boundless as his violence, and neither was ever satisfied.
This is the first major, and definitive, biography of this remarkable criminal life, told in jaw-dropping detail by the one man who, more than any other, can understand just how far he came and just how low he fell: his brother, Roberto Escobar.
289 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2009
81 people are currently reading
1013 people want to read
About the author
Roberto Escobar Gaviria
6 books3 followersRoberto de Jesús Escobar Gaviria (born January 13, 1947), nicknamed El Osito ("the little teddy bear"), is the brother of deceased drug kingpin, Pablo Escobar, and the former accountant and co-founder of the Medellín Cartel,[1] which was responsible for up to 80 percent of the cocaine smuggled into the United States.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
October 4, 2015
For a book about 'the World's Most Powerful Criminal' this is decidedly pedestrian. It was no doubt stupid of me to pick up a book (any book) that includes in the subtitle the words 'AS TOLD BY..' Roberto, the brother, spends half the time stressing his own innocence, the fact that he was kept in the dark when it comes to most of Pablo's murderous activities.. and yet he is telling his brother's story. It doesn't add up. There's also plenty of shoddy make-believe.. like when he insists a good colleague, being tortured by the police, didn't want to give out information, only doing so when his family was threatened. But then the man is killed anyway and you wonder- well, who knows he didn't want to give out the information at first..? He is dead and can't tell his own story.
There is no doubt Escobar, the Infamous One, was an interesting, complex character. But his brother Roberto comes across as the less-popular boy at school, the one walking in his brother's (overweight) shadow, the one without a story to tell of his own. He mentions reading up about cancer and AIDS in an effort to find cures and I find it as difficult to believe as his other attempts at vainglory.
Avoid and watch 'NARCOS' on Netflix instead, bearing in mind bias is everywhere.
There is no doubt Escobar, the Infamous One, was an interesting, complex character. But his brother Roberto comes across as the less-popular boy at school, the one walking in his brother's (overweight) shadow, the one without a story to tell of his own. He mentions reading up about cancer and AIDS in an effort to find cures and I find it as difficult to believe as his other attempts at vainglory.
Avoid and watch 'NARCOS' on Netflix instead, bearing in mind bias is everywhere.
December 31, 2024
Dnf at 50% or so because...... Idk i can't get into it. Its very repetitive and I feel like Roberto, and I can't even blame him, has a very biased view on his brother. Its always like "YE HE KILLED PEOPLE... AND DID SOME HUGE DAMAGE, but guys... He has a heart made of gold and just wanted to best for his family..."
........
Anyways i think the Narcos series on Netflix is so much better and more interesting to watch, so if u want to know more about Pablo Escobar, that is your best bet to get the info.
........
Anyways i think the Narcos series on Netflix is so much better and more interesting to watch, so if u want to know more about Pablo Escobar, that is your best bet to get the info.
October 16, 2020
An interesting read but stated to get quite repetitive in this retelling. DNF
March 5, 2025
really interesting read and eye-opening as long as you remember that the author, as his brother, is very biased. easy to read and cool to learn about how the cocaine business became so huge so quickly. Interesting to weigh up the good with the bad in Pablo’s nature, while remembering that of course his brother would paint him in a more positive light than what may have been the truth. Also very interesting to read from a criminologist lens
August 13, 2024
Well written , a lot of inside stories of Pablo and truths unknown to the general public . Amazing book.
September 30, 2025
Roberto Escobar’s *Escobar: The Inside Story of Pablo Escobar, the World’s Most Powerful Criminal* is a memoir that defies easy categorization, inhabiting a space that is part biography, part confession, part business and operational manual for one of the most notorious criminal empires in modern history.
Unlike third-party accounts of Pablo Escobar’s life, which rely on journalistic reconstruction, court documents, or anecdotal reports, this book comes from the vantage point of someone who lived inside the Medellín cartel, who witnessed the empire’s rise and fall, and who played a critical role in its financial machinery.
Reading it is a disorienting, intoxicating, and at times horrifying experience: one is simultaneously enthralled by the ingenuity and scale of the organization, repulsed by the brutality and human cost, and drawn into the intimate dynamics of family loyalty, power, and obsession. The memoir functions on multiple levels, providing both an operational understanding of the cartel’s logistics and an intimate portrait of the men at its center, particularly Pablo Escobar himself, as seen through the eyes of his brother.
From the outset, Roberto Escobar situates the narrative within a personal and familial framework. He is not a neutral observer or historian; he is both participant and witness. This perspective shapes the memoir’s tone: it is unapologetically intimate, occasionally defensive, and often morally ambivalent. Roberto frames himself as a loyal brother, a pragmatic operator, and at times a conscience, offering insight into Pablo’s personality, strategy, and vulnerabilities.
Yet he is also candid about his own complicity and errors, which lends the narrative an uneasy authenticity. The memoir thus becomes a study in dualities: loyalty and betrayal, genius and destructiveness, familial love and moral compromise. The reader is constantly reminded that Escobar’s rise and reign cannot be understood without considering the interplay of these personal dynamics with structural and societal forces, including corruption, law enforcement failures, and the broader socio-political landscape of Colombia in the 1980s and 1990s.
The early chapters of the book immerse readers in the mechanics of the Medellín cartel, emphasizing the scale, precision, and ingenuity of its operations. Roberto Escobar provides meticulous accounts of money laundering techniques, drug trafficking logistics, bribery networks, and organizational hierarchies.
The narrative reads at times like a business case study: there are discussions of cash flow management, supply chain challenges, operational oversight, and risk mitigation strategies, all executed in a context that is both legal and extralegal. Yet this operational clarity is interspersed with moments of human drama, reflecting the inherent tensions of life inside a criminal organization. The combination of technical detail and personal narrative is one of the memoir’s greatest strengths, as it allows the reader to understand not just what the cartel did, but how and why it did it, and what it cost those involved at both a professional and emotional level.
Central to the narrative is the portrayal of Pablo Escobar as both a criminal mastermind and a deeply flawed human being. Through Roberto’s eyes, Pablo emerges as a figure of extraordinary ambition, strategic brilliance, and charisma, capable of building infrastructure, manipulating political processes, and inspiring unwavering loyalty.
Simultaneously, he is depicted as volatile, ruthless, and driven by a desire for adoration and legacy that often superseded ethical or strategic considerations. The memoir does not shy away from detailing the consequences of these traits: the killings of rivals, the terror inflicted on law enforcement and civilians, the destabilization of entire communities, and the personal costs borne by family members. This duality is rendered with intimate immediacy, offering readers a rare glimpse into the psychology of a man whose vision and brutality were inseparable.
One of the most compelling aspects of the memoir is its treatment of risk, paranoia, and the psychological toll of operating at the apex of a criminal empire. Roberto Escobar emphasizes the constant threat from law enforcement, rival gangs, and internal dissent. Every decision carried life-or-death consequences, and the pressure to maintain operational security was relentless.
The narrative conveys the suffocating tension of this existence, illustrating the psychological contortions necessary to survive within such an environment. Family and loyalty were both protective and perilous; trust was fragile, and betrayal could be fatal. The memoir captures the adrenaline, fear, and hyper-vigilance that defined life within the Medellín cartel, offering a level of psychological insight that few third-party accounts can match.
The book also provides a detailed examination of the socio-political and institutional context that enabled Escobar’s empire to flourish. Roberto does not ignore the corruption, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and complicity of Colombian political and law enforcement structures, which allowed the cartel to operate with remarkable impunity. Interactions with politicians, police officials, and international actors are recounted with specificity, illustrating how systemic weaknesses and opportunistic alliances facilitated the accumulation of wealth and power.
The narrative underscores that Escobar’s rise was not purely a function of individual brilliance; it was also contingent upon structural conditions that made the extraordinary concentration of power possible. By contextualizing the Medellín cartel within its broader environment, the memoir provides a nuanced understanding of how criminal empires intersect with state institutions, economies, and societies.
Roberto Escobar also offers a vivid portrayal of the operational logistics of the cartel, which reads as both awe-inspiring and terrifying. He details the methods of drug production, transportation networks spanning continents, and financial management techniques that allowed billions of dollars in illicit profits to be moved, hidden, and reinvested.
The meticulousness of these operations reflects an organization that functioned with corporate-like efficiency, despite its extralegal nature. The reader gains insight into the cartel’s internal hierarchy, discipline, and management systems, which allowed it to withstand external pressures for years. These sections of the memoir highlight the blend of organizational acumen and moral transgression that defines the Escobar phenomenon, making the narrative simultaneously educational, thrilling, and chilling.
Throughout the book, the human dimension of the Escobar story is never lost. Roberto interweaves anecdotes about family, loyalty, and the emotional weight of living alongside a man whose public persona inspired fear and awe. The memoir conveys the moral and emotional ambiguities faced by those closest to Pablo: the exhilaration of wealth and influence, the dread of violent reprisal, and the tension between complicity and conscience.
Moments of grief, moral reflection, and familial concern punctuate the operational detail, reminding readers that the story of Escobar is as much about human experience as it is about criminal enterprise. This interplay between human emotion and structural power elevates the memoir from a straightforward criminal account to a psychologically and socially resonant narrative.
Stylistically, the memoir is direct and unadorned, with a focus on clarity and immediacy. Roberto Escobar does not seek literary flourish; his prose is blunt, precise, and often stark, reflecting the urgency and danger inherent in the subject matter. Episodes of violence, negotiation, and strategic decision-making are recounted with cinematic vividness, giving the narrative a sense of momentum and immersion.
The absence of embellishment enhances the authenticity of the account, as the reader is drawn into the world of the Medellín cartel without filter or distraction. This stylistic approach complements the memoir’s content, aligning the narrative form with the intensity, danger, and moral complexity of the events described.
The memoir is also notable for its ethical complexity. Roberto Escobar does not present himself or Pablo as unequivocal villains; nor does he glorify crime. Instead, he explores the contradictions, compromises, and rationalizations that defined their lives. The book interrogates themes of loyalty, power, ambition, and morality, challenging readers to grapple with uncomfortable questions about the human capacity for both ingenuity and cruelty.
By refusing to provide simple moral closure, the memoir reflects the ambiguity of lived experience, particularly within contexts of extreme power and violence. The collapse of the Medellín cartel and the death of Pablo Escobar do not resolve these questions; they leave a lingering sense of reflection on consequences, complicity, and systemic failure.
Roberto Escobar’s memoir also situates the Medellín cartel within global frameworks, showing how international drug markets, political dynamics, and transnational networks contributed to both the growth and eventual downfall of the organization. He recounts interactions with foreign governments, rival cartels, and global law enforcement agencies, illustrating the interconnectedness of illicit networks and the challenges of policing them.
This perspective positions the memoir not only as a Colombian story but as a case study in global criminal enterprise, offering insights relevant to scholars of criminology, international relations, and organizational behavior.
Emotionally, the memoir is charged and at times harrowing. Moments of familial concern, regret, and moral reflection punctuate the narrative, providing texture and depth. Readers witness the bonds that both sustained and imperiled those within the cartel, the moral ambiguities of loyalty, and the personal costs of living in an environment defined by constant danger. These human elements prevent the memoir from becoming a sterile operational manual, anchoring it in lived experience and ethical inquiry. The tension between operational brilliance and moral compromise forms the emotional backbone of the book, sustaining reader engagement across its detailed exposition.
In the final chapters, Roberto reflects on the aftermath of Pablo’s death, the dismantling of the cartel, and the enduring consequences of the empire they built. There is a sense of reckoning, both personal and societal, as the memoir considers the human toll of ambition, greed, and systemic failure. The narrative leaves readers with questions rather than answers, emphasizing the complexity of historical events and human choices. This reflective dimension elevates the book beyond sensational crime memoir into a meditation on power, consequence, and morality.
Ultimately, *Escobar: The Inside Story of Pablo Escobar* is a rich, dense, and immersive account that offers unprecedented access to one of history’s most notorious criminal empires. Roberto Escobar’s perspective as brother, participant, and witness provides a depth of insight unavailable to outside observers. The memoir captures the interplay of ambition, strategy, violence, and human frailty with immediacy and clarity, making it a compelling read for those interested in criminal history, organizational dynamics, or psychological portraiture. It is both a cautionary tale and a testament to the complexity of human behavior in extreme contexts.
Reading the memoir is to confront the uncomfortable truth that extraordinary power—whether in commerce, politics, or crime—can magnify both genius and destructiveness. Escobar’s Medellín cartel, as portrayed by Roberto, is a microcosm of human potential for organization, strategy, and ingenuity, applied in ways that challenge conventional moral frameworks. The book is unflinching in its depiction of consequences, yet it also allows for an understanding of the structural, personal, and societal factors that enabled such an empire to rise. It is a study of contradictions, of brilliance intertwined with horror, and of the enduring fascination of human ambition taken to its most extreme forms.
In conclusion, *Escobar: The Inside Story of Pablo Escobar, the World’s Most Powerful Criminal* is a meticulously detailed, emotionally resonant, and ethically complex memoir that occupies a unique place in criminal literature. It is part confession, part operational chronicle, part reflection on power, loyalty, and consequence.
Roberto Escobar’s insider perspective allows readers to understand not just what Pablo Escobar achieved, but how and why, and at what cost. It is a story of ambition and terror, genius and destructiveness, intimacy and moral ambiguity—a narrative that is both gripping and unsettling, informative and reflective.
The memoir offers insights into human psychology, organizational strategy, and socio-political dynamics, all while maintaining the immediacy and intensity of lived experience. For anyone seeking to understand the phenomenon of Pablo Escobar and the dynamics of criminal power, this book is an indispensable, immersive, and unforgettable read.
Unlike third-party accounts of Pablo Escobar’s life, which rely on journalistic reconstruction, court documents, or anecdotal reports, this book comes from the vantage point of someone who lived inside the Medellín cartel, who witnessed the empire’s rise and fall, and who played a critical role in its financial machinery.
Reading it is a disorienting, intoxicating, and at times horrifying experience: one is simultaneously enthralled by the ingenuity and scale of the organization, repulsed by the brutality and human cost, and drawn into the intimate dynamics of family loyalty, power, and obsession. The memoir functions on multiple levels, providing both an operational understanding of the cartel’s logistics and an intimate portrait of the men at its center, particularly Pablo Escobar himself, as seen through the eyes of his brother.
From the outset, Roberto Escobar situates the narrative within a personal and familial framework. He is not a neutral observer or historian; he is both participant and witness. This perspective shapes the memoir’s tone: it is unapologetically intimate, occasionally defensive, and often morally ambivalent. Roberto frames himself as a loyal brother, a pragmatic operator, and at times a conscience, offering insight into Pablo’s personality, strategy, and vulnerabilities.
Yet he is also candid about his own complicity and errors, which lends the narrative an uneasy authenticity. The memoir thus becomes a study in dualities: loyalty and betrayal, genius and destructiveness, familial love and moral compromise. The reader is constantly reminded that Escobar’s rise and reign cannot be understood without considering the interplay of these personal dynamics with structural and societal forces, including corruption, law enforcement failures, and the broader socio-political landscape of Colombia in the 1980s and 1990s.
The early chapters of the book immerse readers in the mechanics of the Medellín cartel, emphasizing the scale, precision, and ingenuity of its operations. Roberto Escobar provides meticulous accounts of money laundering techniques, drug trafficking logistics, bribery networks, and organizational hierarchies.
The narrative reads at times like a business case study: there are discussions of cash flow management, supply chain challenges, operational oversight, and risk mitigation strategies, all executed in a context that is both legal and extralegal. Yet this operational clarity is interspersed with moments of human drama, reflecting the inherent tensions of life inside a criminal organization. The combination of technical detail and personal narrative is one of the memoir’s greatest strengths, as it allows the reader to understand not just what the cartel did, but how and why it did it, and what it cost those involved at both a professional and emotional level.
Central to the narrative is the portrayal of Pablo Escobar as both a criminal mastermind and a deeply flawed human being. Through Roberto’s eyes, Pablo emerges as a figure of extraordinary ambition, strategic brilliance, and charisma, capable of building infrastructure, manipulating political processes, and inspiring unwavering loyalty.
Simultaneously, he is depicted as volatile, ruthless, and driven by a desire for adoration and legacy that often superseded ethical or strategic considerations. The memoir does not shy away from detailing the consequences of these traits: the killings of rivals, the terror inflicted on law enforcement and civilians, the destabilization of entire communities, and the personal costs borne by family members. This duality is rendered with intimate immediacy, offering readers a rare glimpse into the psychology of a man whose vision and brutality were inseparable.
One of the most compelling aspects of the memoir is its treatment of risk, paranoia, and the psychological toll of operating at the apex of a criminal empire. Roberto Escobar emphasizes the constant threat from law enforcement, rival gangs, and internal dissent. Every decision carried life-or-death consequences, and the pressure to maintain operational security was relentless.
The narrative conveys the suffocating tension of this existence, illustrating the psychological contortions necessary to survive within such an environment. Family and loyalty were both protective and perilous; trust was fragile, and betrayal could be fatal. The memoir captures the adrenaline, fear, and hyper-vigilance that defined life within the Medellín cartel, offering a level of psychological insight that few third-party accounts can match.
The book also provides a detailed examination of the socio-political and institutional context that enabled Escobar’s empire to flourish. Roberto does not ignore the corruption, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and complicity of Colombian political and law enforcement structures, which allowed the cartel to operate with remarkable impunity. Interactions with politicians, police officials, and international actors are recounted with specificity, illustrating how systemic weaknesses and opportunistic alliances facilitated the accumulation of wealth and power.
The narrative underscores that Escobar’s rise was not purely a function of individual brilliance; it was also contingent upon structural conditions that made the extraordinary concentration of power possible. By contextualizing the Medellín cartel within its broader environment, the memoir provides a nuanced understanding of how criminal empires intersect with state institutions, economies, and societies.
Roberto Escobar also offers a vivid portrayal of the operational logistics of the cartel, which reads as both awe-inspiring and terrifying. He details the methods of drug production, transportation networks spanning continents, and financial management techniques that allowed billions of dollars in illicit profits to be moved, hidden, and reinvested.
The meticulousness of these operations reflects an organization that functioned with corporate-like efficiency, despite its extralegal nature. The reader gains insight into the cartel’s internal hierarchy, discipline, and management systems, which allowed it to withstand external pressures for years. These sections of the memoir highlight the blend of organizational acumen and moral transgression that defines the Escobar phenomenon, making the narrative simultaneously educational, thrilling, and chilling.
Throughout the book, the human dimension of the Escobar story is never lost. Roberto interweaves anecdotes about family, loyalty, and the emotional weight of living alongside a man whose public persona inspired fear and awe. The memoir conveys the moral and emotional ambiguities faced by those closest to Pablo: the exhilaration of wealth and influence, the dread of violent reprisal, and the tension between complicity and conscience.
Moments of grief, moral reflection, and familial concern punctuate the operational detail, reminding readers that the story of Escobar is as much about human experience as it is about criminal enterprise. This interplay between human emotion and structural power elevates the memoir from a straightforward criminal account to a psychologically and socially resonant narrative.
Stylistically, the memoir is direct and unadorned, with a focus on clarity and immediacy. Roberto Escobar does not seek literary flourish; his prose is blunt, precise, and often stark, reflecting the urgency and danger inherent in the subject matter. Episodes of violence, negotiation, and strategic decision-making are recounted with cinematic vividness, giving the narrative a sense of momentum and immersion.
The absence of embellishment enhances the authenticity of the account, as the reader is drawn into the world of the Medellín cartel without filter or distraction. This stylistic approach complements the memoir’s content, aligning the narrative form with the intensity, danger, and moral complexity of the events described.
The memoir is also notable for its ethical complexity. Roberto Escobar does not present himself or Pablo as unequivocal villains; nor does he glorify crime. Instead, he explores the contradictions, compromises, and rationalizations that defined their lives. The book interrogates themes of loyalty, power, ambition, and morality, challenging readers to grapple with uncomfortable questions about the human capacity for both ingenuity and cruelty.
By refusing to provide simple moral closure, the memoir reflects the ambiguity of lived experience, particularly within contexts of extreme power and violence. The collapse of the Medellín cartel and the death of Pablo Escobar do not resolve these questions; they leave a lingering sense of reflection on consequences, complicity, and systemic failure.
Roberto Escobar’s memoir also situates the Medellín cartel within global frameworks, showing how international drug markets, political dynamics, and transnational networks contributed to both the growth and eventual downfall of the organization. He recounts interactions with foreign governments, rival cartels, and global law enforcement agencies, illustrating the interconnectedness of illicit networks and the challenges of policing them.
This perspective positions the memoir not only as a Colombian story but as a case study in global criminal enterprise, offering insights relevant to scholars of criminology, international relations, and organizational behavior.
Emotionally, the memoir is charged and at times harrowing. Moments of familial concern, regret, and moral reflection punctuate the narrative, providing texture and depth. Readers witness the bonds that both sustained and imperiled those within the cartel, the moral ambiguities of loyalty, and the personal costs of living in an environment defined by constant danger. These human elements prevent the memoir from becoming a sterile operational manual, anchoring it in lived experience and ethical inquiry. The tension between operational brilliance and moral compromise forms the emotional backbone of the book, sustaining reader engagement across its detailed exposition.
In the final chapters, Roberto reflects on the aftermath of Pablo’s death, the dismantling of the cartel, and the enduring consequences of the empire they built. There is a sense of reckoning, both personal and societal, as the memoir considers the human toll of ambition, greed, and systemic failure. The narrative leaves readers with questions rather than answers, emphasizing the complexity of historical events and human choices. This reflective dimension elevates the book beyond sensational crime memoir into a meditation on power, consequence, and morality.
Ultimately, *Escobar: The Inside Story of Pablo Escobar* is a rich, dense, and immersive account that offers unprecedented access to one of history’s most notorious criminal empires. Roberto Escobar’s perspective as brother, participant, and witness provides a depth of insight unavailable to outside observers. The memoir captures the interplay of ambition, strategy, violence, and human frailty with immediacy and clarity, making it a compelling read for those interested in criminal history, organizational dynamics, or psychological portraiture. It is both a cautionary tale and a testament to the complexity of human behavior in extreme contexts.
Reading the memoir is to confront the uncomfortable truth that extraordinary power—whether in commerce, politics, or crime—can magnify both genius and destructiveness. Escobar’s Medellín cartel, as portrayed by Roberto, is a microcosm of human potential for organization, strategy, and ingenuity, applied in ways that challenge conventional moral frameworks. The book is unflinching in its depiction of consequences, yet it also allows for an understanding of the structural, personal, and societal factors that enabled such an empire to rise. It is a study of contradictions, of brilliance intertwined with horror, and of the enduring fascination of human ambition taken to its most extreme forms.
In conclusion, *Escobar: The Inside Story of Pablo Escobar, the World’s Most Powerful Criminal* is a meticulously detailed, emotionally resonant, and ethically complex memoir that occupies a unique place in criminal literature. It is part confession, part operational chronicle, part reflection on power, loyalty, and consequence.
Roberto Escobar’s insider perspective allows readers to understand not just what Pablo Escobar achieved, but how and why, and at what cost. It is a story of ambition and terror, genius and destructiveness, intimacy and moral ambiguity—a narrative that is both gripping and unsettling, informative and reflective.
The memoir offers insights into human psychology, organizational strategy, and socio-political dynamics, all while maintaining the immediacy and intensity of lived experience. For anyone seeking to understand the phenomenon of Pablo Escobar and the dynamics of criminal power, this book is an indispensable, immersive, and unforgettable read.
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February 23, 2021Ik vond dit een zeer tof boek met het drugskartel van medellin, ik heb hier ook een korte samenvatting over gemaakt te lezen hieronder.Ik geef dit boek 4/5 sterren de meeste stukken waren zeer interessant,maar niet geschikt als je niet tegen (horror verhalen kan&moorden).
Samenvatting:
De Jeugd Van Pablo Escobar.
Pablo Escobar is geboren in Medellin, Colombia.
Zijn vader was een boer met een kleine, slechtlopende boerderij met weinig koeien, waarvan het aantal ook na zijn geboorte snel bleef dalen waardoor ze het niet breed hadden.
Na zijn geboorte duurde het niet lang voordat hij het wist te presteren in het criminele circuit te komen.
De oorzaak daarvan is hoogstwaarschijnlijk omdat hij erg arm was en zijn familie hem nauwelijks kon onderhouden.
Toen hij eenmaal op school kwam in Medellin werd hij al snel in de criminele groepen betrokken.
Hij begon zijn wonderschone carrière met het stelen van grafstenen die hij vervolgens weer verkocht aan Panamese smokkelaars.
Later, toen hij al wat bekender was in de groepen in Colombia is hij auto’s gaan stelen.
Hij vroeg mensen om geld, met de belofte hun auto niet te zullen stelen; wilden die mensen hiervoor niet betalen, dan stal hij die auto’s persoonlijk. Vervolgens mishandelde hij die mensen op een gruwelijke manier. Door zijn wreedheid werd hij al snel bekend in zijn geboortestad Medellin.
Voor zijn tijd werd er uitsluitend marihuana naar de Verenigde Staten gesmokkeld, maar Pablo zag dat de cocaïne prijs in de VS heel hoog was, en in Colombia heel laag, dus zo is het idee geboren.
Hij had van te voren al in 10 jaar lang een aardig netwerk van tuig opgezet en kon dus makkelijk bij de smokkelpraktijken inburgeren.
Hij trouwde de 15 jarige Maria Victoria en zei heeft een zoon en een dochter gebaard, Juan Pablo en Manuela.
Hoe Pablo Escobar in het drugscircuit kwam.
Zijn eerste contactpersoon die in de smokkelbranche
van marihuana zat was Fabio Restrepo.
Via hem heeft Pablo het smokkelen van cocaïne in werking gezet.
Hij had via contacten gehoord over de goedlopende branche in de marihuana en heeft zich nog een tijdje bezig gehouden met de teling, totdat hij opving dat er een netwerk was dat handelde in de harddrug cocaïne en heeft zich verdiept in de prijzen ervan buiten Colombia. Omdat Pablo zag dat de cocaïnehandel lucratief was, wilde hij meteen de baas zijn en heeft na een kleine deal Fabio Restrepo vermoord, omdat die nog te veel te zeggen had. Na zijn dood was Pablo in één klap de leider van de kleine organisatie die Fabio voor hem leidde. Met deze organisatie ging hij nu in plaats van marihuana in cocaïne handelen.
Als er andere groeperingen ook in cocaïne handelden, werkte hij zich daarbij in en eiste procenten van de opbrengst. Wilden zij niet meewerken dan werden zijn vermoord door de mannen van Pablo. Zo had hij al snel een zeer groot deel van de cocaïne handel in zijn bezit. Niemand durfde hem te weigeren vanwege zijn wrede daden.
Wat maakte Pablo Escobar zo bekend?
De wreedheid van Pablo typeerde hem heel erg.
In Medellin was hij hierdoor al vrij snel bekend, al vanaf de tijd dat hij auto’s stal. Toen hij begon met het handelen in marihuana en cocaïne werd hij al snel bekend in heel Colombia.
De VS en de rest van de wereld echter, zijn pas bekend geworden met hem op het hoogtepunt van zijn carrière: zijn grootscheepse cocaïnehandel. In die tijd werd hij ook bekend omdat hij extreem wreed was voor iedereen die hem in de weg stond; zij werden ogenblikkelijk op gruwelijke wijze vermoord.
Niemand durfde tegen hem op te staan; iedereen vreesde hem als de dood. Zelfs de top van het leger durfde niet tegen hem in te gaan uit angst voor de gruweldaden waar Pablo bekend om stond. Hij was duidelijk de baas van Colombia!
Maar behalve dat is hij ook bekend geworden in de rest van de wereld doordat hij zichzelf had aangegeven op voorwaarde dat hij zijn straf mocht uitzitten in een door hemzelf gebouwde gevangenis, die boordevol luxe zat. De naam van deze gevangenis is ‘La Catedral’ en ligt op een heuvel boven Medellin. Hij heeft hier niet lang gezeten omdat men hem toch weer ging vervolgen.
Daarna is hij erg lang ondergedoken gebleven in zijn eigen stad Medellin en wist het te presteren met een geheel continent achter hem aan nog lange tijd zich verborgen te houden, dat meteen groot nieuws werd en zijn bekendheid liet stijgen. Keer op keer zette hij de Amerikaanse elitetroepen en het Colombiaanse leger voor schut omdat hij telkens op de hoogte was wanneer zij langs zouden komen om hem op te pakken.
Waarom was Pablo Escobar zo populair in Colombia?
Pablo Escobar had ondanks zijn gewelddadige imago toch een heel goede naam in zijn thuisland.
Zijn ondergeschikten in Colombia, al het tuig, vreesden Pablo erg en zo dwong hij veel respect af. Toch hadden alle inwoners van Colombia ook veel respect voor deze grote crimineel.
Pablo had een sterke band met zijn land en liet dat op veel fronten blijken.
Pablo heeft zich lang verborgen gehouden in Medellin en werd daar niet verraden door de burgers.
Pablo bouwde woonwijken zodat de armere mensen in Colombia niet in krotten hoefde te wonen.
Ook voor alle jongeren liet hij voetbalvelden aanleggen en andere dure voorzieningen.
Hij was als een soort Robin-Hood, hij was een voorbeeld voor alle kansarme jongeren in Colombia, omdat hij het helemaal had gemaakt.
Hij hielp alle mensen in Colombia in het streven naar een beter leven.
Hij probeerde Colombia met al zijn vermogen op te bouwen tot een goed en welvarend land.
De hulp van Amerika.
Pablo’s populariteit in Colombia was vooral onder de armere mensen; de rijkere mensen keken minder tegen hem op en waren erg bang voor zijn terreur.
De Colombiaanse regering kon hem niet aan door zijn grote populariteit, zijn enorme kapitaal en zijn invloed en de regering heeft daarom Amerika om hulp gevraagd omdat Don Pablo erg bang was overgeleverd te worden aan Amerika, want daar had hij geen enkele invloed.
Amerika wilde Colombia helpen en heeft maanden lang speciale operaties in Medellin laten uitvoeren door speciaal getrainde elite troepen die zelfs speciaal werden getraind om Pablo te pakken.
Maar door Pablo’s connecties in Amerika via de drugshandel kreeg hij de informatie over de operaties van te voren te horen en wist zo constant te ontsnappen.
De burgers van Colombia die tegen zijn daden waren, durfden hem bij een ontmoeting niet te verraden, omdat Pablo te veel angst had ingeboezemd bij de bevolking.
Zijn opsporing en dood.
Ondanks Pablo’s maandenlange ontvluchtingen is het toch gelukt Pablo op te sporen. De Amerikanen en de Colombiaanse regering waren bepaald niet blij met alle ontvluchtingen van Pablo. Ze ervoeren de achtereenvolgende ontsnappingen alsof Pablo ze in hun gezicht uitlachte.
Pablo was in de ontsnappingstijd van luxe villa naar luxe villa verhuisd, die achter elkaar werden gesloopt door de troepen die hem nu constant op de hielen zaten.
In het laatste huis waar hij verbleef had hij met zijn mobiele telefoon zijn vrouw gebeld.
De Colombianen en Amerikanen vlogen constant boven Medellin in speciale vliegtuigen om zijn gesprekken af te luisteren en zijn zo achter zijn laatste verblijf gekomen.
Pablo had dat niet van te voren kunnen weten, omdat die aanval compleet verborgen was gehouden, en die informatie niet naar Amerika was gestuurd.
Een politie groep uit Colombia was het huis binnengevallen en Pablo heeft geprobeerd te ontsnappen via het dak, waar hij op is neergeschoten.
De politiegroep verklaarde dat Pablo zelf eerst had geschoten, maar er is nooit een pistool bij hem gevonden,
Waar uit te concluderen valt dat ze hem onterecht hebben neergeschoten, in plaats van gevangen te nemen.
Samenvatting:
De Jeugd Van Pablo Escobar.
Pablo Escobar is geboren in Medellin, Colombia.
Zijn vader was een boer met een kleine, slechtlopende boerderij met weinig koeien, waarvan het aantal ook na zijn geboorte snel bleef dalen waardoor ze het niet breed hadden.
Na zijn geboorte duurde het niet lang voordat hij het wist te presteren in het criminele circuit te komen.
De oorzaak daarvan is hoogstwaarschijnlijk omdat hij erg arm was en zijn familie hem nauwelijks kon onderhouden.
Toen hij eenmaal op school kwam in Medellin werd hij al snel in de criminele groepen betrokken.
Hij begon zijn wonderschone carrière met het stelen van grafstenen die hij vervolgens weer verkocht aan Panamese smokkelaars.
Later, toen hij al wat bekender was in de groepen in Colombia is hij auto’s gaan stelen.
Hij vroeg mensen om geld, met de belofte hun auto niet te zullen stelen; wilden die mensen hiervoor niet betalen, dan stal hij die auto’s persoonlijk. Vervolgens mishandelde hij die mensen op een gruwelijke manier. Door zijn wreedheid werd hij al snel bekend in zijn geboortestad Medellin.
Voor zijn tijd werd er uitsluitend marihuana naar de Verenigde Staten gesmokkeld, maar Pablo zag dat de cocaïne prijs in de VS heel hoog was, en in Colombia heel laag, dus zo is het idee geboren.
Hij had van te voren al in 10 jaar lang een aardig netwerk van tuig opgezet en kon dus makkelijk bij de smokkelpraktijken inburgeren.
Hij trouwde de 15 jarige Maria Victoria en zei heeft een zoon en een dochter gebaard, Juan Pablo en Manuela.
Hoe Pablo Escobar in het drugscircuit kwam.
Zijn eerste contactpersoon die in de smokkelbranche
van marihuana zat was Fabio Restrepo.
Via hem heeft Pablo het smokkelen van cocaïne in werking gezet.
Hij had via contacten gehoord over de goedlopende branche in de marihuana en heeft zich nog een tijdje bezig gehouden met de teling, totdat hij opving dat er een netwerk was dat handelde in de harddrug cocaïne en heeft zich verdiept in de prijzen ervan buiten Colombia. Omdat Pablo zag dat de cocaïnehandel lucratief was, wilde hij meteen de baas zijn en heeft na een kleine deal Fabio Restrepo vermoord, omdat die nog te veel te zeggen had. Na zijn dood was Pablo in één klap de leider van de kleine organisatie die Fabio voor hem leidde. Met deze organisatie ging hij nu in plaats van marihuana in cocaïne handelen.
Als er andere groeperingen ook in cocaïne handelden, werkte hij zich daarbij in en eiste procenten van de opbrengst. Wilden zij niet meewerken dan werden zijn vermoord door de mannen van Pablo. Zo had hij al snel een zeer groot deel van de cocaïne handel in zijn bezit. Niemand durfde hem te weigeren vanwege zijn wrede daden.
Wat maakte Pablo Escobar zo bekend?
De wreedheid van Pablo typeerde hem heel erg.
In Medellin was hij hierdoor al vrij snel bekend, al vanaf de tijd dat hij auto’s stal. Toen hij begon met het handelen in marihuana en cocaïne werd hij al snel bekend in heel Colombia.
De VS en de rest van de wereld echter, zijn pas bekend geworden met hem op het hoogtepunt van zijn carrière: zijn grootscheepse cocaïnehandel. In die tijd werd hij ook bekend omdat hij extreem wreed was voor iedereen die hem in de weg stond; zij werden ogenblikkelijk op gruwelijke wijze vermoord.
Niemand durfde tegen hem op te staan; iedereen vreesde hem als de dood. Zelfs de top van het leger durfde niet tegen hem in te gaan uit angst voor de gruweldaden waar Pablo bekend om stond. Hij was duidelijk de baas van Colombia!
Maar behalve dat is hij ook bekend geworden in de rest van de wereld doordat hij zichzelf had aangegeven op voorwaarde dat hij zijn straf mocht uitzitten in een door hemzelf gebouwde gevangenis, die boordevol luxe zat. De naam van deze gevangenis is ‘La Catedral’ en ligt op een heuvel boven Medellin. Hij heeft hier niet lang gezeten omdat men hem toch weer ging vervolgen.
Daarna is hij erg lang ondergedoken gebleven in zijn eigen stad Medellin en wist het te presteren met een geheel continent achter hem aan nog lange tijd zich verborgen te houden, dat meteen groot nieuws werd en zijn bekendheid liet stijgen. Keer op keer zette hij de Amerikaanse elitetroepen en het Colombiaanse leger voor schut omdat hij telkens op de hoogte was wanneer zij langs zouden komen om hem op te pakken.
Waarom was Pablo Escobar zo populair in Colombia?
Pablo Escobar had ondanks zijn gewelddadige imago toch een heel goede naam in zijn thuisland.
Zijn ondergeschikten in Colombia, al het tuig, vreesden Pablo erg en zo dwong hij veel respect af. Toch hadden alle inwoners van Colombia ook veel respect voor deze grote crimineel.
Pablo had een sterke band met zijn land en liet dat op veel fronten blijken.
Pablo heeft zich lang verborgen gehouden in Medellin en werd daar niet verraden door de burgers.
Pablo bouwde woonwijken zodat de armere mensen in Colombia niet in krotten hoefde te wonen.
Ook voor alle jongeren liet hij voetbalvelden aanleggen en andere dure voorzieningen.
Hij was als een soort Robin-Hood, hij was een voorbeeld voor alle kansarme jongeren in Colombia, omdat hij het helemaal had gemaakt.
Hij hielp alle mensen in Colombia in het streven naar een beter leven.
Hij probeerde Colombia met al zijn vermogen op te bouwen tot een goed en welvarend land.
De hulp van Amerika.
Pablo’s populariteit in Colombia was vooral onder de armere mensen; de rijkere mensen keken minder tegen hem op en waren erg bang voor zijn terreur.
De Colombiaanse regering kon hem niet aan door zijn grote populariteit, zijn enorme kapitaal en zijn invloed en de regering heeft daarom Amerika om hulp gevraagd omdat Don Pablo erg bang was overgeleverd te worden aan Amerika, want daar had hij geen enkele invloed.
Amerika wilde Colombia helpen en heeft maanden lang speciale operaties in Medellin laten uitvoeren door speciaal getrainde elite troepen die zelfs speciaal werden getraind om Pablo te pakken.
Maar door Pablo’s connecties in Amerika via de drugshandel kreeg hij de informatie over de operaties van te voren te horen en wist zo constant te ontsnappen.
De burgers van Colombia die tegen zijn daden waren, durfden hem bij een ontmoeting niet te verraden, omdat Pablo te veel angst had ingeboezemd bij de bevolking.
Zijn opsporing en dood.
Ondanks Pablo’s maandenlange ontvluchtingen is het toch gelukt Pablo op te sporen. De Amerikanen en de Colombiaanse regering waren bepaald niet blij met alle ontvluchtingen van Pablo. Ze ervoeren de achtereenvolgende ontsnappingen alsof Pablo ze in hun gezicht uitlachte.
Pablo was in de ontsnappingstijd van luxe villa naar luxe villa verhuisd, die achter elkaar werden gesloopt door de troepen die hem nu constant op de hielen zaten.
In het laatste huis waar hij verbleef had hij met zijn mobiele telefoon zijn vrouw gebeld.
De Colombianen en Amerikanen vlogen constant boven Medellin in speciale vliegtuigen om zijn gesprekken af te luisteren en zijn zo achter zijn laatste verblijf gekomen.
Pablo had dat niet van te voren kunnen weten, omdat die aanval compleet verborgen was gehouden, en die informatie niet naar Amerika was gestuurd.
Een politie groep uit Colombia was het huis binnengevallen en Pablo heeft geprobeerd te ontsnappen via het dak, waar hij op is neergeschoten.
De politiegroep verklaarde dat Pablo zelf eerst had geschoten, maar er is nooit een pistool bij hem gevonden,
Waar uit te concluderen valt dat ze hem onterecht hebben neergeschoten, in plaats van gevangen te nemen.
May 1, 2013
“I’m defending him because it is the right thing to do.” Roberto Escobar on his brothers Godfather like perception and underworld heavy weight judgement by the public by in large. Roberto bills Pablo as more a Robin Hood, someone who gave back to his people as opposed to the ruthless drug magnate the media inflated him to be. ESCOBAR stresses this differential yet still leaves room for interpretation.
ESOCBAR is an informative, one sided, and interesting look at one of the world’s most famous criminal figures in drug trafficker kingpin, Pablo Escobar. While ESCOBAR doest add much by virtue of exposing deep and dark secrets, it does provide a glimpse at life while Pablo and his family were on the run from authorities, his vast methods for smuggling drug around the globe, the sums of cash he had hidden, and his networks of lawful and unlawful people alike.
Despite the core topic being about Pablo, its Roberto who often takes centre stage and tells his story and brushing over Pablo as almost in passing. I wouldn’t have minded so much if the book jacket specified a story about the Escobar brothers but it didn’t – as a result I left wanting more of Pablo and his trials and tribulations. More along the lines of the quote below would’ve really added a truer reflection of the books intended purpose:
“On December 3 the New York Times announced the death of Pablo Escobar on the front page. “Pablo Escobar, who rose from the slums of Colombia to become one of the world’s most murderous and successful cocaine traffickers, was killed in a hail of gunfire...
“The death is not expected to seriously affect cocaine traffic.”
When Roberto focused on his sole existence whist incarcerated, the writing improved along with the recollection and intensity. I found the last portion of the book very satisfying”
“The bomb exploded in my face. My eyes were gone. The explosion had lifted me off my feet to the ceiling, breaking the ceiling tiles with my head. The world was black. I smelled the blood. God, I thought, don’t let me die here.” – Roberto Escobar on a failed attempt on his life whilst incarcerated.
Overall, ESCOBAR is informative and insightful and has me interested to read more about Pablo and his exploits.
ESOCBAR is an informative, one sided, and interesting look at one of the world’s most famous criminal figures in drug trafficker kingpin, Pablo Escobar. While ESCOBAR doest add much by virtue of exposing deep and dark secrets, it does provide a glimpse at life while Pablo and his family were on the run from authorities, his vast methods for smuggling drug around the globe, the sums of cash he had hidden, and his networks of lawful and unlawful people alike.
Despite the core topic being about Pablo, its Roberto who often takes centre stage and tells his story and brushing over Pablo as almost in passing. I wouldn’t have minded so much if the book jacket specified a story about the Escobar brothers but it didn’t – as a result I left wanting more of Pablo and his trials and tribulations. More along the lines of the quote below would’ve really added a truer reflection of the books intended purpose:
“On December 3 the New York Times announced the death of Pablo Escobar on the front page. “Pablo Escobar, who rose from the slums of Colombia to become one of the world’s most murderous and successful cocaine traffickers, was killed in a hail of gunfire...
“The death is not expected to seriously affect cocaine traffic.”
When Roberto focused on his sole existence whist incarcerated, the writing improved along with the recollection and intensity. I found the last portion of the book very satisfying”
“The bomb exploded in my face. My eyes were gone. The explosion had lifted me off my feet to the ceiling, breaking the ceiling tiles with my head. The world was black. I smelled the blood. God, I thought, don’t let me die here.” – Roberto Escobar on a failed attempt on his life whilst incarcerated.
Overall, ESCOBAR is informative and insightful and has me interested to read more about Pablo and his exploits.
April 23, 2022
You read a lot of stories about how biased media can be towards people and how winner often influence the stories told to the public, well this book just happens to be a well written account of a good example. Everyone knows who Pablo Escobar is and everyone had some form of an opinion of the man, although it is widely known that he did a lot of good for the poor communities around him he is often misrepresented in many ways. For example, I must after reading stories about him could never understand how he could possibly cause the death of so many people and be such a killer when he was so loved by so many. Well this book clarified that for me, you see I never knew how prosecuted he was and how much he suffered in order to be able to help those around him.
I like that the story is aware of it's own biased stance towards Pablo, since it is written by his brother, and in many parts of the book there are disclaimers to show that the story he's about to expand on may be influenced or written from a non-direct source (for example, he mentioned that he was told of this story but wasn't around to witness it either way) but what I like about this book is that there aren't many of them. Most of the stories contained within are ones that are told from a first person perspective and don't shy away from the hard and dirty truths at time which can be seen as unflattering for both the author and his brother.
I also enjoyed the fact that it was written for people who knew about the stories of Pablo as well as those who are new to him and don't know anything about him. Equally, it was clearly written for someone who was not from Columbia and would not understand the turmoil of the region so a few facts are added to set the setting without it being overbearing or making the reader feel stupid. I would say it did get me curious to read stories from other family members, especially those who were not involved completely or the children of the author and Pablo as well.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in Pablo story and isn't afraid to have their mind change and see both sides of what was reported. It is quite a long book, but it does go all the way from childhood to adulthood and beyond which I liked as well.
I like that the story is aware of it's own biased stance towards Pablo, since it is written by his brother, and in many parts of the book there are disclaimers to show that the story he's about to expand on may be influenced or written from a non-direct source (for example, he mentioned that he was told of this story but wasn't around to witness it either way) but what I like about this book is that there aren't many of them. Most of the stories contained within are ones that are told from a first person perspective and don't shy away from the hard and dirty truths at time which can be seen as unflattering for both the author and his brother.
I also enjoyed the fact that it was written for people who knew about the stories of Pablo as well as those who are new to him and don't know anything about him. Equally, it was clearly written for someone who was not from Columbia and would not understand the turmoil of the region so a few facts are added to set the setting without it being overbearing or making the reader feel stupid. I would say it did get me curious to read stories from other family members, especially those who were not involved completely or the children of the author and Pablo as well.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in Pablo story and isn't afraid to have their mind change and see both sides of what was reported. It is quite a long book, but it does go all the way from childhood to adulthood and beyond which I liked as well.
November 10, 2018
An insightful and interesting book that personally documents the personal side, upbringing and the meteoric rise of Pablo Escobar ("Pablo") until his eventual death.
Unsurprisingly as it's written by Roberto Escobar ("Roberto"), the book does feel rather apologetic and tends to portray Pablo in a rather patronising light instead of the murderous and violent drug trafficker that we often associate Pablo with.
The book may also seem superficial at times and tends to breeze through the events instead of articulating the factors or reasons for why the events unfolded. Although Roberto acts as the accountant to the infamous Medellin Cartel and claims to have been with Pablo most of the times, he had never truly sheds the light into some of the eventful incidents revolving around Pablo's murderous activities such as the ill-fated Avianca flight, the executions of Moncada and Galeano and the reason for Los Pepes' campaign against the Medellin Cartel.
Another drawback in the book is the simplistic notions on how Pablo is regarded as the "good guy" always out there defending the poor, protecting the defenceless, donating his monies for the well-being of others and the Medellin Cartel are regarded as the "victims" who are been hunted, assasinated, executed etc whereas the Columbian government are regarded as the "bad guys" who are always kidnapping and gunning down anyone associated with the Medellin Cartel.
All in all, it's understandable that this is a book based on the memoirs of Roberto and events as seen through his perspective and not genuinely a book on Pablo per se. An interesting read in which I was unable to leave the book alone, nonetheless.
Unsurprisingly as it's written by Roberto Escobar ("Roberto"), the book does feel rather apologetic and tends to portray Pablo in a rather patronising light instead of the murderous and violent drug trafficker that we often associate Pablo with.
The book may also seem superficial at times and tends to breeze through the events instead of articulating the factors or reasons for why the events unfolded. Although Roberto acts as the accountant to the infamous Medellin Cartel and claims to have been with Pablo most of the times, he had never truly sheds the light into some of the eventful incidents revolving around Pablo's murderous activities such as the ill-fated Avianca flight, the executions of Moncada and Galeano and the reason for Los Pepes' campaign against the Medellin Cartel.
Another drawback in the book is the simplistic notions on how Pablo is regarded as the "good guy" always out there defending the poor, protecting the defenceless, donating his monies for the well-being of others and the Medellin Cartel are regarded as the "victims" who are been hunted, assasinated, executed etc whereas the Columbian government are regarded as the "bad guys" who are always kidnapping and gunning down anyone associated with the Medellin Cartel.
All in all, it's understandable that this is a book based on the memoirs of Roberto and events as seen through his perspective and not genuinely a book on Pablo per se. An interesting read in which I was unable to leave the book alone, nonetheless.
February 18, 2018
Roberto, Roberto
I liked this book because it was a fast paced read that pulled me in and wouldn't let go of me until the very end. I however disliked that its shallowness and lack of particulars. There were so many times when I wished that the author could expound more on certain things but I guess it would have been difficult for him to give a detailed expose since he was also implicated in the crimes and he also wanted to get as much out of the whole affair as he possibly could.
I also disliked the fact that the book, which was supposed to be about Pablo Escobar, kept shifting focus from Roberto to Pablo through the eyes of his big brother, the author. It is interesting that I learnt much more about the brother's marriage more than the main characters. Further, Roberto could only see Pablo in the best of lights, the ambitious self-starter, the giver, the organiser, the charter of new frontiers, the family man, the patriot and so on. I am not doubting that he wasn't all this and more, I just feel robbed of personal insights into the more, the violence, the greed, the adultery, the corruption, the deal making, the doubts, the fear.... all that went into the making of the criminal legend.
All in all, I was not very convinced as to the innocence of the author or his lack of involvement in the violence and the drug trade or his denunciation of the government as corrupt since such an elaborate criminal enterprise could not have existed in the absence of corruption . Why denounce the very state of affairs that facilitated the billionaire status they enjoyed so much ?
Unfortunately, I couldn't also bring myself to pity those who profited from such heinous crimes. People lost lives, others were reduced to shells of their former selves and I'm expected to be saddened that the families of the people responsible were denied asylum? I am truly unable to extend such grace.
As I have said, the author glossed over the untidy bits (which I was most interested in to be honest) and tried to sanitise the drug enterprise as a charity movement but he still delivered an enjoyable read. I just wish it was as illuminating as it was exciting. (less)
I liked this book because it was a fast paced read that pulled me in and wouldn't let go of me until the very end. I however disliked that its shallowness and lack of particulars. There were so many times when I wished that the author could expound more on certain things but I guess it would have been difficult for him to give a detailed expose since he was also implicated in the crimes and he also wanted to get as much out of the whole affair as he possibly could.
I also disliked the fact that the book, which was supposed to be about Pablo Escobar, kept shifting focus from Roberto to Pablo through the eyes of his big brother, the author. It is interesting that I learnt much more about the brother's marriage more than the main characters. Further, Roberto could only see Pablo in the best of lights, the ambitious self-starter, the giver, the organiser, the charter of new frontiers, the family man, the patriot and so on. I am not doubting that he wasn't all this and more, I just feel robbed of personal insights into the more, the violence, the greed, the adultery, the corruption, the deal making, the doubts, the fear.... all that went into the making of the criminal legend.
All in all, I was not very convinced as to the innocence of the author or his lack of involvement in the violence and the drug trade or his denunciation of the government as corrupt since such an elaborate criminal enterprise could not have existed in the absence of corruption . Why denounce the very state of affairs that facilitated the billionaire status they enjoyed so much ?
Unfortunately, I couldn't also bring myself to pity those who profited from such heinous crimes. People lost lives, others were reduced to shells of their former selves and I'm expected to be saddened that the families of the people responsible were denied asylum? I am truly unable to extend such grace.
As I have said, the author glossed over the untidy bits (which I was most interested in to be honest) and tried to sanitise the drug enterprise as a charity movement but he still delivered an enjoyable read. I just wish it was as illuminating as it was exciting. (less)
November 20, 2018
Much has been said about Pablo Escobar, who was the richest criminal in history and the head of the Medellin cartel in Colombia. This book is written from the heart and is an intimate portrait of the great man as remembered by one of his closest associates and a member of his family - his brother Roberto Escobar. Often Roberto will refute some of the more macabre details of Pablo legend as he aims to place the truth into history. We hear the inside story of Pablo's early years, his breaking into the cocaine trade through contraband trafficking. It is clear how ruthless Pablo could be and even in the early years his business acumen can be unquestioned. There are enlightening tales from Hacienda Napoles. Always there is an emphasis on Pablo Escobar's Robin Hood qualities with his care of the poor and needy in the slums of Medellin. We see how war was brought to the Colombian government through the Extraditables and also against the Cali cartel. The struggle against the Pepes in latter years is brutal and Roberto has to face a crippling injury after a letter bomb explodes in prison. The whole saga of La Catedral - the prison where they negotiated surrender is revealing. The tale of Pablo Escobar is one of extremes. The amounts of profit and money changing hands are astronomical. Roberto, as a chief accountant of the organisation, is in a position to give some clarity on the range of investments and the inside details of the massive narcotics shipments that were taking place. At the end of the day, this was a business like any other and the violence associated with the hunting down of Pablo and in maintaining his massive empire is out of this world. I think that through this biography we see more of Pablo the Saint and family man than the terrorist and criminal. A great five star read.
February 11, 2023
As told by his older brother,Roberto Escobar who was an Electronics Engineer by profession and had also done Accounting.
He previously used to run his own business of selling bicycles.Not forgetting that In his youth bicycle riding was a sport he was so passionate about that he once represented his beloved country.
Pablo's cocaine trafficking into the US had grown exponentially that he asked for the services of his older brother as an accountant.They smuggled so much coke that at some point they would spend $2,500 on rubber bands to hold the cash together and lost about 10% damages,misplacement or it was eaten by rats.
I must admit,I admired Pablo's many ingenious ways of how the merchandise was smuggled,at some point they used transformers.lol they were 10 steps ahead of Uncle Sam's DEA.
Unfortunately for Pablo,when the US government declared war on cocaine and started working with the Colombian government He was the number one target even though he was not the only one dealing.
However,once again Pablo proved to them, that He was in the league of his own.He went into hiding outsmarting the corrupt police,Army,US Delta Force and other mercenaries who were ready to get their hands on the $10 Million Dollars bounty.
He eventually gave himself up but on his terms 1)Not to be extradited to The US
2)Provided his own prison at the cathedral (one of the many properties he owned).
However the terms changed after it was discovered by authority of how lavishly Escobar and Co. were living and so the army was sent to get him but Pablo being Pablo,he escaped.
Pablo Escobar Gaviria was a man and half.
He previously used to run his own business of selling bicycles.Not forgetting that In his youth bicycle riding was a sport he was so passionate about that he once represented his beloved country.
Pablo's cocaine trafficking into the US had grown exponentially that he asked for the services of his older brother as an accountant.They smuggled so much coke that at some point they would spend $2,500 on rubber bands to hold the cash together and lost about 10% damages,misplacement or it was eaten by rats.
I must admit,I admired Pablo's many ingenious ways of how the merchandise was smuggled,at some point they used transformers.lol they were 10 steps ahead of Uncle Sam's DEA.
Unfortunately for Pablo,when the US government declared war on cocaine and started working with the Colombian government He was the number one target even though he was not the only one dealing.
However,once again Pablo proved to them, that He was in the league of his own.He went into hiding outsmarting the corrupt police,Army,US Delta Force and other mercenaries who were ready to get their hands on the $10 Million Dollars bounty.
He eventually gave himself up but on his terms 1)Not to be extradited to The US
2)Provided his own prison at the cathedral (one of the many properties he owned).
However the terms changed after it was discovered by authority of how lavishly Escobar and Co. were living and so the army was sent to get him but Pablo being Pablo,he escaped.
Pablo Escobar Gaviria was a man and half.
October 21, 2021
The book is a half-decent attempt to justify the violence and the drug trafficking world started by Pablo. What's really disturbing to read is the constant struggle to justify and downplay the carnage caused by Pablo by highlighting his generosity and care for the poor and his family, while contrarily adopting unscrupulous ways to make money and satisfy his ambitions for a luxurious life. It is a desparate attempt to glorify the grand life of Pablo by portraying him as a shrewd leader that commanded loyalty and cries astonishingly scapegoat to the consequences that he engendered. Although the flaws in the approach are apparent, the writer does a good job in coherently describing all the moments and the role different characters. The story-telling takes you on a journey with circumstantial depiction of all the events and most impressively, the personal perspective. The story also highlights the need of an infamous name to put all blame on, even for the actions that were not committed or inspired and the prevalence of hyprocritical, deceptive and corrupt government. In terms of story telling, the book is without a doubt 4.5 stars, but what pulls it back is it's own flawed narrative.
June 7, 2019
It’s important to take this book with a grain of salt. It certainly is the truth according to Pablo Escobar’s brother. I have no doubt he is recounting things with what he believes to be truthfulness from his perspective. But it also seems clear that he has no remorse or sense that being a part of an organization that transported millions of dollars of cocaine is wrong. He claims that the violence and the corruption was simply a part of things and not what they were setting out to do—but he seems to miss the crucial fact that because of their willingness and ability to traffic cocaine countless lives were negatively impacted (and yes, those people made the decisión to buy the drug, but the aid the cartel gave them in selling it still implicates them in wrongdoing). A good counterpoint to Narcos, but be aware this is a story with and from a very specific perspective.
April 8, 2022
A pretty mediocre read. Roberto spends most of the time trying and failing to convince his audience he is a victim, as though being the main accountant for a cartel and laundering money is a circumstance he was born in to as opposed to a choice. His insistence that his greatest crime is being Pablo’s brother is tiresome, and discredits his story because it makes him out to be delusional - it doesn’t garner sympathy, only eye-rolls.
I think he also goes a long way in damaging his credibility elsewhere with obvious tall tales - his story about Gilberto calling Pablo after his failed attempt to murder his family via bombing at Monaco and begging him to not start a war, even calling him ‘Partrón’, feels laughable.
If you have any standing knowledge of Escobar I’d say give this a pass - you won’t walk away any more enlightened.
I think he also goes a long way in damaging his credibility elsewhere with obvious tall tales - his story about Gilberto calling Pablo after his failed attempt to murder his family via bombing at Monaco and begging him to not start a war, even calling him ‘Partrón’, feels laughable.
If you have any standing knowledge of Escobar I’d say give this a pass - you won’t walk away any more enlightened.
January 1, 2019
The rise and fall of Pablo Escobar, the world's notorious cocaine kingpin as told by his brother Roberto. The events Roberto recounts seems truthful enough. If that is so then blame lies with the Colombian government for Pablo's eventual descent into crime was due to the Colombian authorities penchant for bribes and their reluctance to help the poor. Cocaine, with its promise of high profits, seemed the easiest way out of poverty and Pablo Escobar took it...and helped elevate the living standards of the poor with the proceeds. Which is why they love him till today. It was written by his brother and co-conspirator so take it all with a pinch of salt.
July 16, 2017
A fascinating insight into the Medellin Cartel that ran from the 80s until Pablo Escobar's death in 1993. As it's from the point of view of Pablo's brother and accountant a lot of it needs to be taken with a pinch of salt as it's not always to tell who's telling the truth - Roberto Escobar or all the American documentaries that have been made about El Patron. I couldn't put this book down - some fascinating stories from over the years about how they smuggling drugs, bribing the police and government officials, running from the police, army and US forces.
July 25, 2017
This book incorporates the vast majority of Escobar's life and the political events surrounding his rise. While this is both gripping and shocking, I found the book could have been written in a more engaging manner. Moreover, in my opinion, having visited Colombia, I found the book to be heavily biased towards his good actions.
Overall, the book does a great job of documenting Escobar's life, in many places in great detail. However, in more than one respect, the book could have been written better.
Overall, the book does a great job of documenting Escobar's life, in many places in great detail. However, in more than one respect, the book could have been written better.
November 14, 2020
An intriguing and heartfelt account by the brother of one of the world’s most notorious criminals. A worthwhile read as it allows an insight into the many sides of Pablo as the back matter says: Murderer, philanthropist, drug dealer, politician, devil, saint. The book also adds detail to how the business was run and the logistical elements of the operation.
There are times in the read that more detail would be nice but it is evident that Roberto is still protecting those that were loyal to the family.
Worth reading if you’re interested in the Escobar story.
There are times in the read that more detail would be nice but it is evident that Roberto is still protecting those that were loyal to the family.
Worth reading if you’re interested in the Escobar story.
June 6, 2022
Got this book only for the facts and to get another perspective of escobar...and that is exactly what u will find in this book... there were quite alot of repetition in the book...well i cant blame the writter since he gone through some shit and had hus face blown off...and he has spent an awful lot of time justifying for crimes that you can begin to justify...the justifying is just funny...i mean u cant really justify yourself for those kind of crimes... all in all fact lovers will deffintly like the book!
October 16, 2017
For what should be one of the most interesting real life stories in modern history it is surprisingly dull and pedestrian. The constant attempts at revisionist history by his brother to portray Pablo and the other Cartels as Robbin Hood type characters whilst massively underplaying the brutal and bloody part they played in Columbias drugs industry becomes tedious after awhile... disappointing read.
March 18, 2018
Overall a good read! The book offers a fairly good insight into the functioning of the cartel. There are bits of it that get slightly annoying as the brother tries to prove his innocence far too many times. Fascinating at first but a few chapters in between make it a bit wearisome. Also, would have liked more emphasis on the personal traits of Pablo Escobar which was expected as the title suggests it to be an account of the man. Nonetheless, its a book you wouldn't put down till the very end.
August 30, 2020
Purchase Escobar here for just $10!
Murderer, philanthropist, drug dealer, politician, saint: many words have been used to describe Pablo Escobar. This is the first major, definitive biography of his remarkable life, told through the all-knowing eyes of his brother, Roberto Escobar.
Paul - The Book Grocer
Murderer, philanthropist, drug dealer, politician, saint: many words have been used to describe Pablo Escobar. This is the first major, definitive biography of his remarkable life, told through the all-knowing eyes of his brother, Roberto Escobar.
Paul - The Book Grocer
May 5, 2022
"...And also with the knowledge that whatever is thought about my brother, from the people who loved him to those filled with hate, he will live forever in history." - Roberto Escobar.
I have enjoyed this read; although some parts of the story are all over the place, its a very interesting look at Pablo Escobar's life.
Highlight for me was the different types of transportation he used to ship the drugs and towards the end when they (both brothers) meet their fate.
I have enjoyed this read; although some parts of the story are all over the place, its a very interesting look at Pablo Escobar's life.
Highlight for me was the different types of transportation he used to ship the drugs and towards the end when they (both brothers) meet their fate.
December 2, 2022
I enjoyed it from the perspective of Pablo’s brother, learning about there childhood and how the events differ from the Netflix Narcos which is mainly from a DEA perspectives. It doesn’t hide the wrongs in which Pablo committed, however after reading i felt for him more towards the hero in some aspects. Obviously there will be some bias, but no more than the media perspective. Certainly worth a read!
September 20, 2018
Fascinating story, weird POV
Probably inevitable that getting Pablo Escobar's brother to write a biography of him would be a bit strange. over th course of the book, the narrator's proximity and complicity in all the horror gets harder to gloss over. Think it could have done with making him one voice among others
Probably inevitable that getting Pablo Escobar's brother to write a biography of him would be a bit strange. over th course of the book, the narrator's proximity and complicity in all the horror gets harder to gloss over. Think it could have done with making him one voice among others
August 15, 2020
Love reading anything about Pablo Escobar and this didn’t disappoint. Though I knew a lot of the main timeline/ chronology, there were plenty of sibling/ family oriented tales in this book which really kept it alive for me. It was great to hear about Pablo’s life from the perspective of someone who was clearly very fond of him, his brother.
February 24, 2021
I sort of enjoyed reading this book with such a simple text but I was honestly expecting more details. The whole time I felt as if Roberto was trying to portray hard of himself as an innocent/nice person. Apart from that, the book was good with a good amount of pages and a catchy storyline. Overall, I enjoyed it and I'm moving on to more books about Escobar to know more details.
May 24, 2018
A great narrative detailing the side of Pablo Escobar not often seen in the media. A less dramatised version of the story, more likely closer to the truth. Roberto tells just how it was being that close to one of the world's most notorious criminals. Definitely worth a read.
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