Dog Park

Dog Park is a 2016 novel by Oksanen that follows Olenka, a woman who ruined her life, and a stranger who may do the same. It is set in Helsinki and Ukraine in the early days of post-Soviet independence and is centered on the exploitation and commodification of the female body. Olenka is unable to escape the memory of her lost child and the ruthless powers that still hunt her, but the lies that could save her may end up doing so.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 02 June 2022
Publisher: Atlantic Books

Dog Park is a haunting and enigmatic horror story that delves into the murky world of egg donation and the black market. It skillfully maintains a delicate balance between frustration and fascination, keeping the reader engaged and intrigued throughout.

Published in the Daily Mail, this intricate, textured slow-burner paints a vivid picture of a post-Soviet state where gangsters reign supreme and the exploitation of the female body is a lucrative enterprise. Set in Helsinki in 2016, the novel follows Olenka, a woman who sits on a bench, observing a family playing in a dog park. Suddenly, a stranger sits down beside her, and Olenka is startled, recognizing the woman as the one who had ruined her life. However, for a fleeting moment, they are united, sharing the sight of their children being raised by others.

Dog Park seamlessly transitions between modern-day Finland and Ukraine in the early days of its post-Soviet independence. The novel is meticulously observed, with a dark and propulsive tone that captivates the reader. At its core, Dog Park explores the intersection of East and West, focusing on a web of exploitation and the commodification of the female body. Author Oksanen brings a fearless psychological acuity to this captivating story, delving into the depths of a woman's memory, the relentless powers that hunt her, and the lies that could potentially save her.

Through its intricate plot and well-developed characters, Dog Park offers a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition, challenging societal norms and raising questions about the moral boundaries of exploitation. It is a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of literature to delve into the darkest corners of the human psyche. Whether you are a fan of horror or simply seeking a compelling and thought-provoking read, Dog Park is a must-read that will leave you pondering its haunting implications long after you turn the last page.

Weight: 252g
Dimension: 130 x 197 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781838951443
Edition number: Main