Like a modern day Alexis de Tocqueville, Frank A. Arencibia reaches into the most profound facets of Spanish culture and reveals little known truths behind the myth of Spain. His insightful book shows Spain and its people in a new light; boldly and honestly unmasking the realities of its society.You will learn why the Spanish electric company refuses to discontinue service upon request and why customer service in Spain does not exist. You will understand the roots of Spanish behavior and why Spain has become the most anti-American nation of Western Europe.Unlike tourists books, Arencibia's work shows what it is like to live in Spain and how it may be difficult for foreigners to adjust to Spanish ways.If you think Spain is about happy, carefree, gentle people who dance Flamenco and drink Sangria-think again. Spain: Paradox of Values/Contrasts of Confusion will awaken you to the real España.
This book is an exposé of the country. It is not meant for tourists but rather for those who live, or want to live in Spain. Those foreigners who have lived in Spain, and moved out, may also find the book valuable as it may share some of their experiences.
Meant for Americans, Canadians, Australians, British, Germans, northern Europeans and Japanese, this book highlights the real day to day life of Spain. It may also be of special interest to minorities contemplating settling down in Spain. They, above all, will have a difficult time adjusting to Spanish society. However, anyone in search of the real Spain will find this book interesting. What I write about is based on my own experiences, not a fairy tale romance novel of life in Spain, nor hearsay.
As for research, most of the data contained was gathered from Spanish newspapers, radio, television news and reports.
Admittedly, Spain: Paradox of Values is controversial and many will not accept or believe my findings. Speaking negatively about Spain is equivalent to bad-mouthing Disneyland. But my experiences are not unique, and I do say in the beginning that one’s experience in Spain depends a great deal on who you are and why you are there. The treatment received in Spain depends on race, nationality and gender.
This book has no political agenda. It only seeks justice as it strongly criticizes Spanish hypocrisy, leftists and right-wingers. The book may not merit a five star rating and my writing style is not very eloquent. But it is a "must read" for anyone contemplating life in Spain. --Frank Arencibia
