Dystopian fantasy, political parable, morality tale—however one reads it, this novel is first and foremost pure Ana María Shua, a work of fiction like no other and a dark pleasure to read. Shua, an Argentinian writer widely celebrated throughout Latin America, frames her complex drama in deceptively simple, straightforward prose. The story takes place at a fat farm called The Reeds, a nightmare world that might not exist but certainly could. The last resort of the overweight wealthy (or sponsored), The Reeds subjects its “campers” to extreme measures—particularly the regimented system of public humiliation imposed by its director, a glib and sharp-minded sadist called the Professor. Into the midst of this methodical madness comes Marina Rubin, who experiences all the excesses of The Reeds. The pervasive cruelty of this refined novel distances it from facile conclusions. Amid the mordant social satire, The Reeds’ obese campers are far more than merely victims of the system, subjected to impossible social demands for physical perfection. Out of control, fierce, rebellious, or subjugated, they are recognizable human beings, contending with an unjust but efficient authority in their unique and solitary ways.

"The Purple Road" follows the gripping tale of a man whose life, once bathed in public adoration, crumbles under the weight of his own addictions, tearing apart the fabric of his family. The story takes a cosmic turn when a night of intense prayer catapults our protagonist into a visionary experience, transporting him into outer space within a New Orleans house enveloped by a tornado of wildflowers and butterflies—his destination: Planet Social, his wife's realm. As he lands, a challenging path unfolds—a purple road fraught with obstacles that demand introspection and growth. This poignant journey becomes a quest for self-discovery, redemption, and a chance to rebuild the fractured bonds with his family. Amidst the cosmic backdrop, the protagonist grapples with the lessons he must learn to regain trust and love. "The Purple Road" is a captivating narrative that delves into the depths of one man's soul, showcasing the transformative power of self-reflection and the unwavering pursuit of personal redemption.