The Hormone Factory by Saskia Goldschmidt

Book Review by Rosie Barron | 17 Mar 2016
Book title: The Hormone Factory
Author: Saskia Goldschmidt

This novel, newly translated from German, weaves a narrative of sibling rivalry, discovery and power. The Hormone Factory tells the story of two brothers, Motke and Aron, and a scientist who sets up a pharmaceutical factory in the years leading up to World War II. Aptly narrated from his death bed, the main character Motke – a former conman and womaniser – reflects on the rise of his pharmaceutical empire.

From sexual exploitation to sexual emancipation, The Hormone Factory examines the problem of human participation in machine society. Posing an insight into man's nature through the scientific exploration of the female contraceptive pill and treatment, this book provides a harrowing insight into the man/woman/machine phenomenon that drove the 20th century. With the body viewed as a machine to be moulded, bent and fixed to suit, what happens when money and power blur the lines between pain and gain?

Although a fictitious account, this book is populated by truths and secrets that haunt and astound. Exposing the intense dynamic that lies beneath sex, power and money, The Hormone Factory details the transformation of something so human into something inhumane, through ruthless capitalistic pursuit. The candid tongue of Motke's narration fires up this fast-paced novel, making him a character who won't soon be forgotten.  

Out 24 Mar, published by Saraband, RRP £8.99