A review by savvy999
Monstrilio by Gerardo Sámano Córdova

challenging dark emotional fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

A whirlwind of emotions. Subtly dazzling and rich. The distinct and provocative voices of the characters emphasize this complicated portrait of just how human a monster can be. We see M from all perspectives, in all of the viscera and gore and introspection that he entails. Grief transforms and makes new the bodies of those involved. Loss of the son, grief at not being the son that was lost, grief from up close and afar. “The monster stands at the borders of the possible”(quote from cohens monster theory, which definitely  enhances a reading of this book) Monstrilio engages with the possibility of constructing a life and living it borrowed, that born of tradition/folklore and aided by science this being could be walking alongside others. but also stands with the pain of living amongst without feeling full,  of being an outsider in their space and body. The possibility of embracing one’s own monstrosity is daunting and dangerous, but to M is ultimately a triumph of spirit. 
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