Tender is the Flesh

Bookseller recommendation

“Originally written in Spanish by Argentine author Agustina Bazterrica, this book is not for the squeamish. This dystopian novel looks at what happens to human society after a virus eradicates all animals and there is no meat. Cannibalism is the solution and it is depicted in all its violent stomach turning glory. It is brutal. Heads (humans) are bred and processed as 'special meat' for human consumption. Marcos is right in the middle of this process and one day is given a gift. He knows that touching this gift is forbidden and he could find himself processed as meat if he breaks the rule, however the 'gift' is carrying his child and he will stop at nothing to protect it.”

— Suzanne • Underground Books

Bookseller recommendation

“ This was one of the most difficult books I've ever read, right alongside the likes of José Saramago's BLINDNESS. TENDER IS THE FLESH takes the current reality of animal factory-farming, and reimagines a future where we've resorted to and normalized the same practices - but by farming humans. A stark look at what types of violence we find acceptable, and our ever-human ability of justifying atrocities in order to remain "comfortable". Warning: this book is not for the squeamish, there are graphic descriptions of slaughterhouse practices, and horrific violence against both humans and animals. None of the practices described though, are something we are not already putting farmed animals through today.”

— Amy • Changing Hands

Bookseller recommendation

“Having read Bradbury and Orwell it is easy to imagine the dystopia that Tender Is the Flesh seeks to convey. This book gave me goosebumps and it gave me a visceral reaction - it felt so real. Truly disturbingly well written. There is a theme of body autonomy in this book and mass consumption of animals. The ending will make you feel intense sadness.”

— Otillia • Page 1 Books

Bookseller recommendation

“This book is very descriptive of the processing process, not unlike in Upton Sinclair's THE JUNGLE, except with humans instead of animals. It's enough to make one uncomfortable, and raises a lot of moral questions about how living beings, be they animals or humans, are treated in general; and how something that should be unthinkable is made acceptable by the "softening" of verbiage used to describe it.

This is a book I can picture Hannibal Lector comfortably enjoying with a glass of Chianti and a plate of fava beans. As disturbing as it was, I couldn't not finish listening to it (though I wonder if I'd have a different reaction if I read it instead) I would definitely recommend this book to the die hard horror reader. I would also recommend it to those who like to challenge their views with uncomfortable topics.”

— Chris • A Freethinker's Corner