Del amor y otros demonios (Vintage Espanol) (Spanish Edition)

This is a new paperback edition of the last novel Nobel laureate García Márquez published before his memoir. Set in Colombia during the colonial period, when the Inquisition was in full swing and anything unfamiliar was thought to be demonic, the story revolves around 12-year-old Sierva María and the consequences she suffers because of a tiny scratch of a dog bite. Sierva is an odd child, having been neglected by decadent parents and brought up by black slaves; to those of the dominant class, she is a terrifying mix of voodoo culture and preadolescent rebellion and rage. This potent mix lands her in a convent, where she is subject to exorcism proceedings until the priest falls madly in love with her. This is the main story, but García Márquez adds many layers, creating a vivid and sensual depiction that immerses readers in the sights, smells, and sounds of that time and place. He gives each character his or her own eccentric personality, making this a satisfying read. Recommended for libraries and bookstores where literature is popular.—Sara Martinez, Hispanic Resource Ctr., Tulsa City-Cty. Lib. Syst. OK