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Cover of Dogeaters
Literary Fiction· Philippines

Dogeaters

by Jessica Hagedorn
Aggregate Editorial Score31/100
★National Book Award
Published 1990English
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About This Book

Published in 1990, Dogeaters established Jessica Hagedorn as one of the defining voices in literary fiction. Jessica Hagedorn's Dogeaters is a vivid portrayal of the Philippines during the Marcos era, blending history, politics, and pop culture. The novel captures the chaotic and vibrant atmosphere of Manila through a diverse cast of characters, offering a critical view of the country's socio-political landscape. Hagedorn's work is celebrated for its unique narrative style and its ability to encapsulate the complexities of Filipino society. Themes of political corruption, cultural identity, power run through the work.

Book Details

AuthorJessica Hagedorn
Published1990
Country of Origin🇵🇭 Philippines
LanguageEnglish
Category📖 Literary Fiction
ISBN9780140149043
Editorial Score31/100
About the Category

📖 Literary Fiction

Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.

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Country of Origin

🇵🇭 Philippines

This book is part of Philippines's rich literary tradition.

Explore books from Philippines →

Editorial Assessment

Dogeaters by Jessica Hagedorn sits within the tradition of literary fiction that treats language as seriously as plot. Published in 1990 in Philippines, it engages with political corruption, cultural identity, power, media in ways that have earned it lasting critical attention. The book's place in the literary record rests on its presence across major prize lists and critical surveys. Its aggregate editorial score of 31/100 reflects recognition from 1 independent editorial sources, from international prizes to specialist critical journals. Readers coming to Dogeaters for the first time will find a work that rewards patience. The book's handling of political corruption, cultural identity, power, media is layered rather than didactic, and a second reading often reveals dimensions the first pass only hinted at. Jessica Hagedorn's role in the literature of Philippines is well established. Dogeaters can be read as both a standalone achievement and as part of a broader national literary conversation about identity, history, and the possibilities of narrative form.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.

Awards & Recognition

National Book Award
shortlist · national
19900
✍️
About the Author
Jessica Hagedorn
Philippines
View Author →

Jessica Hagedorn is a Philippines author whose work in literary fiction has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dogeaters about?

Jessica Hagedorn's Dogeaters is a vivid portrayal of the Philippines during the Marcos era, blending history, politics, and pop culture. The novel captures the chaotic and vibrant atmosphere of Manila through a diverse cast of characters, offering a critical view of the country's socio-political landscape. Hagedorn's work is celebrated for its unique narrative style and its ability to encapsulate the complexities of Filipino society.

Who wrote Dogeaters?

Dogeaters was written by Jessica Hagedorn, from Philippines. First published in 1990.

What awards has Dogeaters won?

Dogeaters has received the following recognition: notable critical recognition.

Is Dogeaters worth reading?

Dogeaters is a well-regarded book with an aggregate editorial score of 31/100 on 50 Best Books. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in political corruption, cultural identity, power.

Where can I buy Dogeaters?

You can buy Dogeaters on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is Dogeaters?

Dogeaters is classified as Literary Fiction. Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.

What country is Dogeaters from?

Dogeaters originates from Philippines's literary tradition. Explore more books from Philippines on our country page.

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