06/10/2024
Born in the small Argentinian village of Mina Clavero, Camila has always lived her life on the fringes of society. Identifying as a "transvesti," a transgender woman, she grew up in a bitterly poor, abusive home with an alcoholic father. Seeking escape, Camila attends university while supporting herself through sex work in Córdoba, where she discovers a magical community of fellow transvesti. Villada's first novel to be translated into English is a gritty yet beautiful look at the reality of living as a transvesti in a society that both desires and abhors trans people. Sena Bryer's narration is wistful and piercing, effectively portraying this world, which is full of sharp edges, violence, and hope. Though many of the passages are terribly sad and difficult to hear, a strand of magical realism runs throughout, leaving listeners with a glimmer of hope. The author's biography at the end provides listeners with an idea of the history and events that inspired the novel. VERDICT A tough, but tender tale that gives listeners an unsparing and necessary look into the world of trans sex workers in Argentina. An important addition to any public library collection.—Elyssa Everling
