October book selection: My Tender Matador by Pedro Lembel
About the event
Our October book takes us to Santiago de Chile, during one of the country's darkest periods. We will discover a story where love, politics, humor, and courage intertwine in unexpected ways. Tender, provocative, and beautifully written, *My Tender Matador* reminds us that even in times of oppression, love and hope can flourish. With unforgettable characters and a voice that is at once playful and poignant, this novel invites us to reflect on identity, resilience, and the power of human connection.
About the book
Set in Chile during the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet in the 1980s, *My Tender Matador* follows the life of an aging, openly gay drag performer known simply as the Queen of the Corner. Lonely but resilient, she lives a modest life until she meets Carlos, a young and charismatic revolutionary who asks to use her house for mysterious meetings. As affection gradually blossoms between them, she finds herself drawn into a dangerous political conspiracy without fully realizing its scope. Torn between her growing love for Carlos and the risks surrounding him, she must navigate a world of fear, repression, and impossible choices. Blending romance, tragedy, satire, and political history, the novel is ultimately a moving celebration of dignity, tenderness, and the courage to love in the face of violence and prejudice.
About the author
Pedro Lemebel (1952–2015) was a Chilean writer, artist, and one of Latin America's most influential LGBTQ+ voices. Known for his fearless criticism of dictatorship, social inequality, and discrimination, he combined activism with art throughout his career. Before becoming a novelist, Lemebel gained recognition for his provocative performances and powerful chronicles, giving voice to those who had long been marginalized by Chilean society. His writing is celebrated for its lyrical language, biting humor, and deep compassion, capturing both the brutality of political repression and the resilience of those who resist it. *My Tender Matador*, his only novel, has become a modern classic of Latin American literature. Through its unforgettable protagonist, Lemebel created a story that is both deeply personal and profoundly political, reminding us that love itself can be an act of resistance.
About the event: Commitment fee To help ensure accurate attendance and make event planning sustainable, a commitment fee of €2 is required to confirm your participation. As organizing these meetings requires time, preparation, and resources, this small fee helps encourage reliable RSVPs and attendance. The fee is non-refundable if you choose not to attend or do not show up. However, if the event is cancelled by the organizer or rescheduled to a date that prevents you from attending, your fee will be refunded promptly after the change is announced. For special circumstances, like waking up sick and having to cancel last minute, you can write me a private message and we'll transfer the fee to a next event you indicate. You can send the fee here: [https://revolut.me/angelicacorsi](https://revolut.me/angelicacorsi) Or you can Paypal me: [paypal.me/Yogatuttiinsieme](http://paypal.me/Yogatuttiinsieme) Please include your MeetUp name in the payment note so I can identify your registration. If you can no longer attend, or if you prefer not to pay the commitment fee, please update your RSVP as soon as possible so your spot can be made available to others. Thank you for your understanding and support.
About the Location We will meet in Merienda Haus, a wonderful cosy coffee shop offering Argentinean and Uruguayan specialities. I invite you to order something and enjoy their drinks and food menu:=)
