Danielle at Opinionated? Me? has posted a review and an interview. She asked a lot of questions about ‘Slights’, detailed ones I really had to think about. The only one which really stumped me was the one about expanding on any Australian cultural things other readers might not understand. It’s hard to know this from the inside, so please let me know if there is any Australian stuff I can kindly explain!
It’s a bit like a few of the scenes in the movie ‘Crocodile Dundee’. One in particular, where Dundee climbs over the heads and shoulders of commuters in a crowded train station to get to his girl. This reminds Australians (and probably New Zealanders) of a sheep dog running over the backs of the sheep to get to the other side, but I don’t know how the joke translated elsewhere!
Lauren Beukes and I are both reviewed at slowhub. This one made me think a lot, because the blogger ends with this:
[Those with mental health issues should be cautious in approaching this emotionally potent novel. Also, not recommended for children or adolescents]
I do wonder how the book might affect vulnerable people at an emotional level. I don’t intend Stevie’s actions to be admirable in any way. But I did try to write from a position of understanding. I wanted to normalise her and make the reader, while not on her side, be WITH her. To understand that there is much underlying why she does what she does.
I’m happy with the warning. I think it makes things clear as to what might be inside the covers. Although I do know at least two teenagers who love the book.
“I wanted to normalise her and make the reader, while not on her side, be WITH her.”
And *that* is the reason why I could put this book down the whole way home from Montreal. I was completely repulsed by Stevie, but I was with her all the way. Can’t wait for this to get a release in the US!
Thanks, Adam. I’m glad it made good reading material for your journey home!
I wish I could fly back for the US release!