A review by elwirax
Tender Is the Flesh by Agustina Bazterrica

dark medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.5

I can't say that this will have a lasting impact on me but it was fine.

I was left with many questions like what makes a human "food grade" as opposed to the consumer, I don't think someone without a first and last name is satisfying enough. How were people convinced into cannibalism, people are not that susceptible to propaganda and they are not passive agents. Why were there limited protests to this? Why weren't alternative meat products made? Perhaps this would deflect from the message, however, I did not find it fully compelling. This could've had such a powerful message concerning race and gender issues, but I'm not sure the animal cruelty theme shone through as much as it should've. There was a spark of a conversation on government power and conspiracies which could've been impactful commentary had it been explored past a conversation between teenagers. 

I personally don't believe Marcos' reasoning for doing the work he did was justified and the ending was extremely rushed and made no sense. Unfortunately, a disappointing read.

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