This is a curious little work which at times seems more like an exercise in prose craft more than a polished novella. 
The first Bolaño I read I loved, and I will probably read more by him in the future. This was not as good as “Nazi Literature in the Americas,” but it does contain great moments. It is written to reflect what a broken old man would sound like as they babble away, attempting to explain their life, and for the most part it works. The voice is consistent and strong, and it for all the world reads like how that old man’s monologue would sound 
However, this doesn’t always result in a compelling read. The voice turns in on itself, especially early on, and this has an effect which can pull the reader out of the narrative.
The first third is pretty weak, but the rest is a worthwhile read. At under 100 pages, it’s easy enough to recommend.