An interview with Teresa Carmody

The author of The Reconception of Marie talks about her new book and why she’s excited about its release, why she chose to write from a young perspective, on reimagining the traditional Bildungsroman, on friendship and interpersonal relationships, Fra Angelico, the book’s relevance to today’s political landscape and lots more.

A review of Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine

Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine is an incredible novel and my expectations were lived up to, indeed. Although considered an ‘adult’ read the text can be suitable for young adults, dependant on the readers taste and other sensitivities to certain themes. Gail Honeyman creates such marvellous characters who once only a few pages into the book, I felt like I’d known them for years.

A review of Split, edited by Lee Kofman

All of the pieces are powerful, richly depicted, allowing the reader access to the very core of transition. Kofman has a well-tuned sense of what works together and the pieces flow together perfectly, each essay informing the work that surrounds it, so that the overall book feels interlinked. It makes for engaging reading that is emotionally powerful throughout. 

A review of The Hate Race by Maxine Beneba Clarke

From the day of early childhood to the teenage years, Clarke consistently takes moments of her life, interrogates them, and gives them a certain form of literary justice. I wouldn’t say a poetic justice, because Clarke isn’t trying to write poetically. She is giving a record of what it means to be born as a foreigner in your own country, and the existential challenges which come throughout.

A review of Black Rabbit by Angus Gaunt

There are multiple ways to read Black Rabbit, and the reader is invited to take part in the meaning making in a way that is very open. You can imagine Maurice’s arc in multiple ways. However you choose to interpret it, Black Rabbit is a terrific read, full of unpredictable twists, well-drawn characters and an unforgettable narrative.