A diverse array of new literary releases showcases global themes and complex narratives in fiction.
Translations from Norwegian, Dutch, and Korean literature are gaining attention this October, alongside a variety of other intriguing works. Among these is Jon Fosse’s latest novel, Vaim, which marks his first publication since being awarded the 2023 Nobel Prize in Literature. The narrative follows Jatgeir, who arrives in the city of Bjørgvin aboard his wooden boat, Eline, named after a lost love. His journey to buy a simple needle and thread takes an unexpected turn when he is cheated twice. That night, Jatgeir hears Eline’s voice calling him home, prompting her departure from her husband, Frank, as she runs away while he is out fishing. Vaim weaves a complex tale centered on themes of love, death, and the determination of women against a backdrop of environmental upheaval, as the country faces severe flooding and daily press conferences by the prime minister.
Another compelling release is When We Love You, Bunny, which explores the life of Samantha Heather Mackey, a student at a prestigious MFA program in New England. Initially an outsider, Samantha becomes entangled with a group of wealthy peers known as the Bunnies, who draw her into their unsettling world. An invitation to their Smut Salon leads her into a dark journey filled with surreal and violent consequences. As the story unfolds, Samantha finds herself kidnapped by her former friends, who reveal their side of the story, recounting their unique creative journey and the formation of their unsettling bond.
Capitalists Must Starve presents a feminist historical narrative set against the backdrop of Japanese-occupied Korea. The novel features a heroine who embodies resilience, daring to love and rebel in a society that seeks to silence working-class women. Balancing raw grit with unexpected tenderness, this story resonates with themes reminiscent of Alias Grace and Pachinko, emphasizing the struggles and triumphs of women against oppressive circumstances.
In Lakota, Wisconsin, a miraculous event unfolds as an unmarried Amish woman gives birth to an eighteen-pound baby, whose remarkable abilities bewilder the community. Gabriel Fisher, raised by his brother and later by devout grandparents, emerges as a young man with extraordinary talents. After the loss of his brother, Gabriel’s life changes dramatically when he is noticed by a local football coach, leading to unforeseen opportunities and challenges.
Roz and Harun return to Malaysian Borneo after years abroad to confront their father Yusuf’s legacy, a figure whose wealth was built on the destruction of rainforests. The siblings grapple with their inheritance and the violent past associated with their father. As they navigate their quest for redemption, they reflect on power, corruption, and the haunting legacies of colonialism that linger over their family and homeland. Together, these literary works provide a rich tapestry of human experiences, exploring themes of love, loss, and the quest for identity amid complex socio-political landscapes.
