The following version of this book was used to create the guide: Gallard, Sara. January. First Archipelago Books Edition, 2023 (Translated by Frances Riddle and Maureen Shaugnessy)

January is an intimate story set in rural Argentina, focusing on the life of Nefer, a sixteen year-old girl grappling with the complexities of family, tradition, and personal struggle. The story unfolds against the backdrop of a harsh rural landscape, where societal expectations and gender roles dictate the lives of its inhabitants.

The narrative begins with Nefer, a young woman navigating the challenges of her environment, which is steeped in tradition and patriarchal values. Nefer's family dynamics are strained, with her mother, Mamá, embodying the strict adherence to traditional gender roles, while her father, Papá, remains a silent observer. Nefer's sister, Alcira, epitomizes societal expectations of femininity, embodying beauty and compliance with tradition.

Early in the narrative, Nefer's life takes a dramatic turn when she is raped by Nicolás, a railway worker. The trauma of the assault leaves Nefer grappling with feelings of shame, fear, and isolation. As she grapples with the aftermath of the assault, Nefer discovers she is pregnant, further complicating her already tumultuous existence.

Throughout the story, Nefer's internal struggle with her pregnancy mirrors the external pressures she faces from her family and community. Mamá's rigid adherence to tradition and reputation fuels Nefer's fear and anxiety, as she grapples with the prospect of societal judgment and condemnation. Despite her mother's attempts to conceal the truth, Nefer finds solace in her relationships with animals and moments of solitude in the woods.

As Nefer's pregnancy progresses, she confronts the harsh realities of her circumstances, navigating the complexities of rural life and the oppressive forces of patriarchy. Despite facing immense adversity, Nefer's resilience shines through as she strives to reclaim her agency and sense of self. Her journey becomes a testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable hardship.

The narrative reaches its climax as Nefer's pregnancy draws to a close, culminating in her marriage to Nicolás, the man responsible for her rape. The wedding serves as a stark reminder of the power dynamics at play in Nefer's world, where women are often relegated to the margins of society, voiceless and powerless.

January is a brutally candid exploration of resilience, survival, and the human capacity for hope in the face of adversity. Through Nefer's journey, the narrative sheds light on the harsh realities of rural life in Argentina, while also celebrating the indomitable spirit of those who dare to defy convention and reclaim their humanity.