Books
by Yael Van Der Wouden
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The Safe Keep |
Isabel lives alone in the family home, rooted there by the pull of childhood memories and household objects that take on an iconic status. She is defensive and prickly but longing for intimacy and sexual fulfilment. When Eva intrudes on her and her house Isabel is horrified and antagonistic, but then torn by conflicting feelings. The truth of their situation emerges slowly and exposes an important historical issue new to me. This would be a worthy Booker winner – it’s brilliantly written and compulsive reading.
(Victoria Grey-Edwards - bwl 115 Winter 2025) |
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The Safekeep |
Isabel’s strictly ordered and lonely life after WW11 is upended by the arrival of Eva, her brother’s girlfriend and Isabel’s opposite in appearance and manner. On one level it is about the sexual and emotional release of this self-controlled woman. On another it is about the guilt regarding the possible failure of The Netherlands to welcome home surviving Jews or return property and belongings to their original owners after ‘safekeeping’ them. However, the ending is of hope and reconciliation.
(Christine Miller - bwl 118 Autumn 2025) |
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