This week I'll be 'work shopping' the best selling book 'Where The CrawDads Sing' by American author Delia Owens with one of my oldest friends Louise Talbot. Lou is a mum to 3 gorgeous boys who are absolute delights! Where The CrawDads Sing is part coming of age tale, part crime thriller with some romance and beautiful nature writing. It centres on the story of Kya Clark who was abandoned by her family at the age of 6. Set in the marshlands of North Carolina, the story focuses on her survival against the odds while battling social prejudice and isolation. A born naturalist who attended school for just one day, Kya soon attracts the attention of 2 local boys. But when one is found dead, the locals immediately suspects Kya, the 'Marsh girl'. This book will make you a better person. It will remind you about the power of human connection and the transformational power of human kindness and compassion. It will prompt you to rethink your approach to those in need. It deals with loneliness and uncertainty which is so relevant for the COVID-19 crisis we are going through. It also provides a reminder that it is the quality of human connection that matters NOT the quantity. Delia doesn't shy away from the racial prejudice that was clearly still alive and kicking in the 1970's. It will remind you of just how toxic this period was and also how there is still work to be done! It will absolutely give you a 'book hangover' - I needed several days to process this remarkable book. It was remarkably satisfying.
