Droll stories of Isthmian life

"Droll Stories of Isthmian Life" by Evelyn Saxton is a compilation of engaging short stories set in the Panama region during the construction of the Panama Canal, offering a glimpse into the lives of people who found themselves there in the early 20th century. Through the eyes of a narrator who travels from New York and the interactions between expatriates, workers, and locals, the book paints a picture of daily life filled with cultural clashes, personal challenges, and unexpected moments of humor. From the diverse passengers on the ship to Panama, where tourists, nurses, engineers, and soldiers converge, to the stories of the narrator who learns of her husband’s illness against the backdrop of this place, Saxton creates a tapestry of anecdotes and observations that capture the essence of a society grappling with adaptation and new experiences in a fascinating time and place.