I never imagined I could be so engrossed in a novel, translated from the Norwegian, about one small family scratching out a living on a tiny island where nothing much happens except weather. But the seasons pass and life happens and change follows and even on an island there are dreams and disappointments. It is beautifully written - in language as spare as the landscape - and beautifully translated by two co-translators. (I wonder how they managed that so seamlessly?) This is the first book of a quartet and I've already ordered the next one.
That sounds like just the kind of read I need right now. Adding to my TBR list.
ReplyDeleteIt’s really lovely to see a new post from you. I thought of your blog last week when watching the BBC’s adaptation of ‘The Other Bennet Sister’ and wondered if you’d enjoyed it…and then I remembered you’d once posted about Renoir’s paintings of two little French girls. There’s a forthcoming book about them by Catherine Ostler, I believe. And I fell down a delight rabbit hole reading your old posts, writing down book titles to investigate and TV shows to watch. So thank you for the hours of enjoyment I now have lined up, and hope there will be more posts from you soon.
Kate
Thank you, Kate - it's lovely to know that you still enjoy reading, even though I've been so bad about writing! Yes, I did enjoy The Other Bennet Sister, despite initial reservations about yet another P&P spin-off - but it turned out to be just what's needed on a chilly spring night. And thank you for reminding me about the Renoir painting - that book sounds fascinating; the girls look so pretty and innocent in the painting, protected by such riches, who would think of the tragedy that awaits them.
ReplyDeleteI loved The Other B Sister - such easy watching, and I thought it was so clever how it had references to the film and so on, and also, eg, made Mr Collins sympathetic! I've noted your recommendation, though I'm always wary of translations normally.
ReplyDeleteI wish I had something like The Other B Sister to watch tonight, Pam!
ReplyDeleteAnd Kate - should you happen to read this - I went to a fascinating talk by Catherine Ostler a few days ago. I haven't read the book yet, but it sounds brilliant - and she really brought to life the painting/its historical context; it all seemed very topical given what's happening in the world today. If she's doing the rounds of bookshops/literary festivals, you might catch her somewhere near you - well worth £5 for a fascinating evening. In fact, Pam - I see she's in Edinburgh this coming week.
The Unseen is a wonderful book, one that will always stay with me. I read about it in The Times about eight or nine years ago on the train to London, when David Mills ( I think ) recommended it in My Culture Fix. As soon as possible I went to Hatchards , bought it , was blown away and chose it for my bookclub turn . Everyone felt the same . I am so glad you have written about it. The others are good but for me to this is definitely the best. Anna
ReplyDeleteHello, Anna. Yes, I can see this would be a very good book group choice. (Unfortunately it's months until it's my turn to choose!) I''m surprised that The Unseen isn't better known here, or am I just slow on the uptake? I see it was shortlisted for the Booker International prize, but that tends to put me off!
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