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272
Novel • Fiction
Manila, Philippines • 1950s
1990
Adult
18+ years
860L
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
3,089 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
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.
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.
3,089 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Freddie Gonzaga
Rio’s father, a successful businessman who works for the influential Alacran family, representing the postcolonial Filipino elite and the patriarchal society.
Delores Logan Gonzaga
Rio's mother, a former beauty queen obsessed with her appearance and navigating her identity, influenced by both her Filipina and Western heritage.
Raul Gonzaga
Rio's older brother who later becomes a fundamentalist Christian minister, navigating changes in his life that reflect broader societal shifts.
Belen Garcia Gonzaga
Raul's first wife, who is part of his life story as he transitions into a fundamentalist Christian minister.
Erlinda Gonzaga
Raul's second wife, introduced as part of his evolving narrative and personal journey.
Lola Narcisa Divino
Rio’s maternal grandmother, a figure embodying traditional Filipino culture and values, providing a contrast to the more Westernized members of the family.
Whitman Logan
Rio's American maternal grandfather, indicating the blend of American influence within the family dynamic.
Socorro Pertierra Gonzaga
Rio’s paternal grandmother, representing the Spanish colonial influence and her detachment from traditional Filipino culture.
Cristobal Gonzaga
Freddie’s wealthy brother who lives in Spain, highlighting the family's connection to Spanish heritage.
Esteban Gonzaga
One of Freddie’s brothers, a part of the extended family network in the narrative.
Tita Menchu Gonzaga
Esteban’s wife, contributing to the portrayal of the extended Gonzaga family.
Eddie Gonzaga
One of Rio’s Spanish cousins, who adds depth to the family's narrative through connections to Spain.
Ricky Gonzaga
Another of Rio’s Spanish cousins, part of the familial ties adding international dimensions to the story.
Claudio Gonzaga
One of Rio’s Spanish cousins, depicted within the international web of the Gonzaga family.
Pucha Gonzaga
Rio’s cousin, who contrasts with Rio by embracing her upper-class status and Westernized identity.
Severo Alacran
The patriarch of the Alacran family, an influential tycoon representing the power and wealth of the elite Filipino families established through colonialism.
Isabel Alacran
Severo’s wife, a former beauty queen who fits the expected societal roles of women within high society.
Rosario “Baby” Alacran
The daughter of Severo and Isabel, her character explores themes of family expectations and individuality.
Pacifico Alacran
Severo’s blind brother and father of Girlie and Boomboom, adding depth to the complex family dynamics.
Blanca Alacran
Pacifico’s deceased wife and mother to Girlie and Boomboom, a past figure within the Alacran family lineage.
Boomboom Alacran
The indulged nephew of Severo, exemplifying the privileged life led by the Alacran family.
Girlie Alacran
Severo’s niece and a beauty contest runner-up, reflecting the family's societal participation and aspirations.
Senator Domingo Avila
A prominent figure in the leftist opposition, whose presence in the story highlights the political tensions of the era.
Maria Luisa Batungbakal Avila
Senator Avila’s wife, an outspoken history professor, emphasizing intellectual resistance in the narrative.
Daisy Avila
The daughter of Senator Avila, whose journey reflects a shift from traditional roles to active resistance.
Aurora Avila
Sister to Daisy, part of the broader storyline of the Avila family and their opposition to the regime.
Clarita Avila
Daisy’s cousin, involved in the revolutionary movement, adds to the portrayal of resistance within the narrative.
General Nicasio Ledesma
The chief of the Philippine military, symbolizing the authoritarian and oppressive regime.
Leonor Ledesma
General Ledesma’s wife, a deeply religious woman, embodying the societal expectations placed on women.
Lolita Luna
An actress whose life behind the scenes reflects the exploitation and challenges within the media industry.
Joey Sands
An Afro-Filipino teenager working as a DJ and sex worker, representing the marginalized segments of society.
Orlando “Romeo” Rosales
An aspiring actor whose failed dreams highlight societal disillusionment during the Marcos era.
Trinidad Gamboa
Romeo’s girlfriend, illustrating the pressures and gender expectations faced by young Filipino women.
272
Novel • Fiction
Manila, Philippines • 1950s
1990
Adult
18+ years
860L
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