I loved this book. I was so gripped by it, that I couldn't bring myself to go anywhere, without putting it in my purse, hoping to be able to read a page or two in between.
Charmaine Wilkerson’s novella uncoils just like the snake in the title of the book. The author repeats motives and scenes from different perspectives, each of them enriching the reality our perception of what truly happened. The story, told and retold from different points of view in a masterful way that doesn’t feel repetitive, unravels the family secrets. It’s a poignant account of a tragedy, and its aftermath. But there is also hope, granted by the unreserved love the remaining family members treat each other with. ‘How to Make a Window Snake’ is a masterpiece.
Joanna Campbell’s ‘A Safer Way to Fall’ is a story you lose yourself into. Each flash is like a sublime little gem, polished to perfection, its different facets reflecting various aspects of a reality. This novella-in-flash spans over a lifetime and concerns itself with trauma: the death of a sibling, an abusive father, war. The main character grapples to recover, while a second narrative thread concerns itself with a German’s family trauma of separation, after the Wall is erected. But in the end, the main character experiences the unforgiving nature of time. While everything dissolves around him, Johnny finds the safer way to fall.
Ingrid Jendrzejewski’s ‘Things I Dream About When I’m Not Sleeping’ presents the changing dynamics within a couple when they have a baby. The author gambles on (mostly) skilfully crafted micros, and wins. The author’s understanding of the parents’ psychology is staggering — I’m sure many a mother will recognise own their patters of behaviour they ‘displayed’ when their babies were small. This thorough examination is brought to life by staggering, cracking details. For instance, the couple’s differences are presented to us as clashes of views regarding cutlery, the colour of the Golden Gate Bridge, and Moby Dick. Ingrid Jendrzejewski is a master of oblique storytelling.
Are you a book seller, library or educational body? See our Trade Discounts. |
Copyright © 2025 Ad Hoc Fiction