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Dogeaters

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1990

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Book Brief

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Jessica Hagedorn

Dogeaters

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1990
Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Manila, Philippines • 1950s

Publication Year

1990

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

860L

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Super Short Summary

Dogeaters by Jessica Hagedorn intricately depicts Manila in the 1950s, presenting an ensemble of diverse characters like Rio Gonzaga, Joey Sands, and Daisy Avila whose lives intersect amidst a backdrop of political turmoil, social disparity, and cultural identity struggles. The novel explores themes of colonization, oppression, class conflicts, and personal aspirations against the historical and societal complexities of the Philippines. The book features depictions of graphic sexual violence, suicidal ideation, and other sensitive topics.

Mysterious

Gritty

Contemplative

Melancholic

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

3.8

3,089 ratings

57%

Loved it

30%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Jessica Hagedorn's Dogeaters has been praised for its vivid depiction of Philippine society, blending melodrama, political commentary, and multifaceted characters. Critics admire its innovative narrative structure and rich, vibrant prose. Some, however, find the fragmentation and dense cultural references challenging. Overall, it is celebrated for its bold storytelling and cultural depth.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Dogeaters?

Readers who enjoy Dogeaters by Jessica Hagedorn likely appreciate multilayered narratives exploring post-colonial society, such as in Gabriel García Márquez's One Hundred Years of Solitude or Junot Díaz's The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao. They are drawn to rich, complex portrayals of cultural identity, politics, and history.

3.8

3,089 ratings

57%

Loved it

30%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

Character List

Rio Gonzaga

The main narrator of the story, she offers a reflective and analytical perspective on her upper-middle-class Filipino family, grappling with her multicultural identity and the influence of colonial history.

Rio’s father, a successful businessman who works for the influential Alacran family, representing the postcolonial Filipino elite and the patriarchal society.

Rio's mother, a former beauty queen obsessed with her appearance and navigating her identity, influenced by both her Filipina and Western heritage.

Rio's older brother who later becomes a fundamentalist Christian minister, navigating changes in his life that reflect broader societal shifts.

Raul's first wife, who is part of his life story as he transitions into a fundamentalist Christian minister.

Raul's second wife, introduced as part of his evolving narrative and personal journey.

Rio’s maternal grandmother, a figure embodying traditional Filipino culture and values, providing a contrast to the more Westernized members of the family.

Rio's American maternal grandfather, indicating the blend of American influence within the family dynamic.

Rio’s paternal grandmother, representing the Spanish colonial influence and her detachment from traditional Filipino culture.

Freddie’s wealthy brother who lives in Spain, highlighting the family's connection to Spanish heritage.

One of Freddie’s brothers, a part of the extended family network in the narrative.

Esteban’s wife, contributing to the portrayal of the extended Gonzaga family.

One of Rio’s Spanish cousins, who adds depth to the family's narrative through connections to Spain.

Another of Rio’s Spanish cousins, part of the familial ties adding international dimensions to the story.

One of Rio’s Spanish cousins, depicted within the international web of the Gonzaga family.

Rio’s cousin, who contrasts with Rio by embracing her upper-class status and Westernized identity.

The patriarch of the Alacran family, an influential tycoon representing the power and wealth of the elite Filipino families established through colonialism.

Severo’s wife, a former beauty queen who fits the expected societal roles of women within high society.

The daughter of Severo and Isabel, her character explores themes of family expectations and individuality.

Severo’s blind brother and father of Girlie and Boomboom, adding depth to the complex family dynamics.

Pacifico’s deceased wife and mother to Girlie and Boomboom, a past figure within the Alacran family lineage.

The indulged nephew of Severo, exemplifying the privileged life led by the Alacran family.

Severo’s niece and a beauty contest runner-up, reflecting the family's societal participation and aspirations.

A prominent figure in the leftist opposition, whose presence in the story highlights the political tensions of the era.

Senator Avila’s wife, an outspoken history professor, emphasizing intellectual resistance in the narrative.

The daughter of Senator Avila, whose journey reflects a shift from traditional roles to active resistance.

Sister to Daisy, part of the broader storyline of the Avila family and their opposition to the regime.

Daisy’s cousin, involved in the revolutionary movement, adds to the portrayal of resistance within the narrative.

The chief of the Philippine military, symbolizing the authoritarian and oppressive regime.

General Ledesma’s wife, a deeply religious woman, embodying the societal expectations placed on women.

An actress whose life behind the scenes reflects the exploitation and challenges within the media industry.

An Afro-Filipino teenager working as a DJ and sex worker, representing the marginalized segments of society.

An aspiring actor whose failed dreams highlight societal disillusionment during the Marcos era.

Romeo’s girlfriend, illustrating the pressures and gender expectations faced by young Filipino women.

Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Manila, Philippines • 1950s

Publication Year

1990

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

860L

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