Viking, US$26.95
Published on July 5, 2012
What is it about?
The story is told in a series of flashbacks as protagonist Lulu ventures to the Mountains of the Moon, a stark African mountain range she fantasized about as a child. She's just been released from a 10-year stay in prison, but her troubles didn't begin there: Growing up with violent parents, Lulu's youth was plagued by psychiatric visits and crime. Throughout the novel, she attempts to rebuild herself under a new alias.
Why are we talking about it?
Although the topic is grim, the prose is imaginative, playful and fresh. The book begins uniquely by listing a cast of characters, and that piqued our interest.
Who wrote it?
This is I.J. Kay's first novel. She was born in Suffolk, but currently lives in Bristol and The Gambia, West Africa.
Who will read it?
Because of the book's theme of overcoming a tragic past, it may appeal to fans of Stieg Larsson. It will also be of interest to those who enjoy experimental fiction, unique voices and prose that intertwines with a story's landscape.
What do the reviewers say?
Read more about "Mountains of the Moon" here.