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Literary Fiction· Ecuador

The Potbellied Virgin

by Alicia Yánez Cossío
Aggregate Editorial Score30/100
Published 1985Spanish
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About This Book

Published in 1985, The Potbellied Virgin established Alicia Yánez Cossío as one of the defining voices in literary fiction. Alicia Yánez Cossío's novel is a satirical take on Ecuadorian society, using humor and irony to critique the political and religious structures. The story revolves around a miraculous statue of the Virgin Mary, exploring themes of faith, power, and corruption. The book is praised for its sharp wit and insightful commentary on the complexities of societal norms. Themes of faith, corruption, satire run through the work.

Book Details

AuthorAlicia Yánez Cossío
Published1985
Country of Origin🇪🇨 Ecuador
LanguageSpanish
Category📖 Literary Fiction
Editorial Score30/100
About the Category

📖 Literary Fiction

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

Explore all Literary Fiction books →
Country of Origin

🇪🇨 Ecuador

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

Explore books from Ecuador →

Editorial Assessment

The Potbellied Virgin by Alicia Yánez Cossío sits within the tradition of literary fiction that treats language as seriously as plot. Published in 1985 in Ecuador, it engages with faith, corruption, satire, power dynamics 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 30/100 reflects recognition from 0 independent editorial sources, from international prizes to specialist critical journals. Readers coming to The Potbellied Virgin for the first time will find a work that rewards patience. The book's handling of faith, corruption, satire, power dynamics is layered rather than didactic, and a second reading often reveals dimensions the first pass only hinted at. The Potbellied Virgin reflects Alicia Yánez Cossío's place in a wider literary tradition. The book's concerns resonate with Ecuador's broader cultural preoccupations, even as they reach beyond any single national context.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from multiple 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.
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About the Author
Alicia Yánez Cossío
Ecuador
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Alicia Yánez Cossío is a Ecuador author whose work in literary fiction has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Potbellied Virgin about?

Alicia Yánez Cossío's novel is a satirical take on Ecuadorian society, using humor and irony to critique the political and religious structures. The story revolves around a miraculous statue of the Virgin Mary, exploring themes of faith, power, and corruption. The book is praised for its sharp wit and insightful commentary on the complexities of societal norms.

Who wrote The Potbellied Virgin?

The Potbellied Virgin was written by Alicia Yánez Cossío, from Ecuador. First published in 1985.

What awards has The Potbellied Virgin won?

The Potbellied Virgin has received the following recognition: notable critical recognition.

Is The Potbellied Virgin worth reading?

The Potbellied Virgin is a well-regarded book with an aggregate editorial score of 30/100 on 50 Best Books. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in faith, corruption, satire.

Where can I buy The Potbellied Virgin?

You can buy The Potbellied Virgin on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is The Potbellied Virgin?

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

What country is The Potbellied Virgin from?

The Potbellied Virgin originates from Ecuador's literary tradition. Explore more books from Ecuador on our country page.

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