The Story of My Teeth

Highway is an auctioneer in Mexico City who claims to possess the world's most prestigious collection of teeth. His narrative chronicles his rise in the auction world through a series of unconventional sales where he employs elaborate storytelling techniques. The novel follows Highway's career evolution and his obsession with teeth, particularly those he believes belonged to famous historical figures. His auctions become increasingly theatrical events where the stories he tells about objects become more valuable than the objects themselves. The book's structure mirrors an auction catalog, with sections organized around different types of sales and collecting methodologies. A supplementary section includes photographs and collaborative texts that add context to Highway's tale. The Story of My Teeth examines the relationship between truth, value, and narrative - questioning how stories transform ordinary objects into artifacts of significance. Through its unique format and storytelling approach, the novel explores the intersection of art, commerce, and personal identity.

Readers appreciate the book's originality, experimental structure, and playful approach to storytelling. Many note the creative blend of fiction, philosophy, and art history. Book clubs report rich discussions about truth, value, and narrative. Common points of praise: - Unique narrative voice and humor - Literary references and art world commentary - Translation quality preserves wordplay Common criticisms: - Plot can feel disjointed and hard to follow - Some sections drag or feel self-indulgent - Characters remain distant and underdeveloped As one reader noted: "Like conceptual art, this novel requires work from its audience. Not everyone will want to put in that effort." Ratings: Goodreads: 3.5/5 (2,800+ ratings) Amazon: 3.7/5 (90+ ratings) LibraryThing: 3.6/5 (150+ ratings) Professional critics rate it higher than casual readers, with many noting it rewards multiple readings but may frustrate those seeking traditional narrative structure.

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🦷 The novel began as a collaboration with workers at a Jumex juice factory in Mexico. Luiselli would write chapters, workers would read them during their shifts, and their feedback shaped the next installments. 📚 The book's structure was inspired by the traditional Cuban practice of cigar factory lectors, where someone would read aloud to workers during their shifts to keep them entertained. 🗣️ The protagonist, Highway, is loosely based on Luiselli's uncle, who was an auctioneer. His outlandish storytelling style mirrors the Latin American tradition of "sobremesa" – extended after-dinner conversations. 🎨 The novel incorporates real photographs from Mexico City's Galería Jumex, but pairs them with completely fictional narratives, blurring the line between truth and imagination. 🌟 Each chapter is structured around a different type of auction, including a "hyperbolic" auction where items are sold based on the outrageous stories attached to them rather than their actual value.