Each August the literary community celebrates Women In Translation Month, aka #WITMonth. But really, any day of the year is a good time to read Women in Translation!
Whenever I make time for fiction in translation, more often than not I enjoy the reading experience. The authors’ perspectives seem fresh to me and I believe that stems from different cultural origins and context. It is a wonderful way to experience new places and cultures, and broaden our thinking on issues both emerging and historical.
THIS IS HOW YOU LOSE THE TIME WAR by Amal El-Mohtar & Max Gladstone, Book Review
Wow. Not the most erudite way to begin a review of such an intellectually stimulating novella I know. But there it is… just in case I fail to do this title justice in the text that follows.
When This is How You Lose the Time War began receiving high praise from early reviewers that included the words ‘epic’ (odd for a novella) and ‘poetic’, I became intrigued enough to purchase this new release. Could hardcore, compelling science fiction be conveyed in artistic, lyrical prose?
Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone have demonstrated that it can be done. And, that to do so can tremendously expand the scope not just for world- and character-building, but also for readers’ emotional engagement. Continue reading >>
Corella Press’ launch 19th Century Australian Crime & Mystery Collection
I have just had the pleasure of reading The Millwood Mystery by Jeannie Lockett, one of the launch titles in Corella Press’ 19th Century Australian crime and mystery collection.
First a little about Corella Press, then more on The Millwood Mystery and its trailblazing author Jeannie Lockett, and of course our review. A little on the other title featured in the collection — Bridget’s Locket and Other Mysteries by Mary Helena Fortune, arguably the world’s first female crime-procedural author. And finally, the pendant and book giveaway Corella Press are running to celebrate the publication of these lost treasures. Entries are open worldwide but closing soon. Read more and ENTER GIVEAWAY>>
LAND OF LAST CHANCES: Q&A with author Joan Cohen
I like writing about moral dilemmas, not because I know the answers, but because these are the questions I turn over in my own mind. I know I won’t figure them out in my book, but if writing the novel doesn’t hold my interest, it certainly won’t hold a reader’s interest.
Abortion is a true moral dilemma, i.e., you can make a strong case for either side, and it’s partly a question of philosophy and partly a question of science how a person decides. My protagonist, Jeanne Bridgeton, had no reason to confront this dilemma until a midlife, unexpected pregnancy and the discovery she and her baby might be at risk for a rare, inherited form of early-onset Alzheimer’s disease intruded on her life. Continue reading >>
Five winners will receive 5 books from their Wishlist up to a total value of £100!