That's a very interesting story, part fairy tale, part modern society analysis. I love authors who write with fairy tale techniques.
I'm a little confused by your statement this story skips the theme of xenophobia. It seems to me the story is about the theme of xenophobia.
So many of us are afraid of others, afraid the earth will spit us out, it's a strange time to be on this planet. Authors like Miguel Gomes help me to carry hope. Thanks for introducing us to him.