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Under the Skin

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'Under the Skin' by Michel Faber is a dark and disturbing novel that follows the story of Isserley, a female driver who cruises the Scottish Highlands looking for muscular male hitchhikers. The plot takes unexpected twists and turns, delving into themes of humanity, dehumanization, and the exploitation of the other. The writing style is described as beautifully imagined, thought-provoking, and suspenseful, keeping readers on edge as they uncover the mysteries within the narrative.

The book explores the concept of what it means to be human, the moral boundaries of slaughter, and the complexities of identity and mercy. It presents a unique perspective on modern life, turning societal norms upside down and challenging readers to contemplate deeper questions about equality, sacrifice, and the essence of humanity. Faber's narrative weaves together elements of science fiction, horror, and social commentary, creating a compelling and unsettling story that lingers in the minds of readers long after they have finished the book.

Characters:

The characters are layered and troubled, with Isserley embodying a struggle for identity amid her dark actions.

Writing/Prose:

The prose is detailed and immersive, building suspense as it gradually reveals key details about the plot and characters.

Plot/Storyline:

The story features Isserley, who picks up hitchhikers for sinister reasons, revealing a slow unraveling of her character and society's ethics.

Setting:

The Scottish Highlands serve as a stark, atmospheric setting that enhances the novel's eerie tone.

Pacing:

The pacing starts slowly, gradually building suspense and urgency as the plot thickens.
ISSERLEY ALWAYS DROVE straight past a hitch-hiker when she first saw him, to give herself time to size him up. She was looking for big muscles: a hunk on legs. Puny, scrawny specimens were no use to h...

Notes:

Under the Skin is a science fiction novel by Michel Faber published in 2000.
The story is set in the Scottish Highlands and follows a character named Isserley who picks up male hitchhikers.
Isserley only picks up well-built, muscular men for her own dark purposes.
The book explores themes of corporate greed, classism, and the morality of food production.
Isserley is actually an alien who has undergone surgery to resemble a human female.
The term 'vodsels' is used to describe humans in the book, reflecting a perception of superiority and dehumanization.
The narrative slowly reveals Isserley's true nature and the fate of the hitchhikers she picks up.
Critics have compared the novel to George Orwell's Animal Farm and H.G. Wells' The Island of Dr. Moreau in terms of themes and social commentary.
The novel blends horror, science fiction, and dystopian elements, creating a unique reading experience.
Many readers find the book disturbing yet thought-provoking, challenging their views on humanity and animal rights.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Triggers for this book include graphic violence, animal cruelty, and themes surrounding body horror.

From The Publisher:

In this haunting, entrancing novel, Michel Faber introduces us to Isserley, a female driver who cruises the Scottish Highlands picking up hitchhikers. Scarred and awkward, yet strangely erotic and threatening, she listens to her hitchhikers as they open up to her, revealing clues about who might miss them if they should disappear. Under the Skin takes us on a heart-thumping ride through dangerous territory-our own moral instincts and the boundaries of compassion.

Ratings (15)

Incredible (4)
Loved It (7)
Liked It (2)
It Was OK (1)
Did Not Like (1)

Reader Stats (40):

Read It (16)
Want To Read (18)
Not Interested (6)

1 comment(s)

Loved It
6 months

agree with all the perfect descriptions already listed - stays with you long after you have read it

 

About the Author:

Michel Faber's work has been published in twenty countries and received several literary awards. He lives in Scotland.

 
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