An intriguing look into the treachery, behind-the-scenes financial wrangling and Roosevelt-era dollar diplomacy that resulted in not only the Panama Canal but the establishment of Panama as an independent nation (and some few making a lot of money). A lawyer himself who has worked on Wall Street (and a Panamanian to boot), Diaz Espinosa brings passion and a unique perspective to the tale. Robert Stone, who did the first research into the story, originally wanted to make a movie.  (PNM23, $16.95)