Rivka Galchen delves into the intricacies of the human psyche with a distinctive literary voice. Her work is characterized by sharp insights into interpersonal dynamics and a profound understanding of human nature. Galchen masterfully weaves narratives that provoke thought and leave a lasting impression on the reader. Her style is both accessible and challenging, establishing her as a significant voice in contemporary literature.
Known for her herbal remedies and successful children - among them Johannes,
Imperial Mathematician and author of the laws of planetary motion -
Katharina's life is changed by an accusation of witchcraft. Facing financial
ruin, torture and even execution, she tells her side of the story. Witty,
engaging and vividly imagined, Everyone Knows Your Mother Is a Witch draws on
historical documents to illuminate a society undone by collective aggression
and hysterical fear - a narrative with true resonance for today.
Rivka Galchen’s Little Labors is a droll and dazzling compendium of observations, stories, lists, and brief essays about babies and literatureSei Shonagon’s Pillow Book―a key inspiration for Rivka Galchen’s new book―contains a list of “Things That Make One Nervous.” And wouldn’t the blessed event top almost anyone’s list?Little Labors is a slanted, enchanted literary miscellany. Varying in length from just a sentence or paragraph to a several-page story or essay, Galchen’s puzzle pieces assemble into a shining, unpredictable, mordant picture of the ordinary-extraordinary nature of babies and literature. Anecdotal or analytic, each part opens up an odd and tender world of wonder. The 47 Ronin; the black magic of maternal love; babies morphing from pumas to chickens; the quasi-repellent concept of “women writers”; origami-ophilia in Oklahoma as a gateway drug to a lifelong obsession with Japan; discussions of favorite passages from the Heian masterpieces Genji and The Pillow Book; the frightening prevalence of orange as today’s new chic color for baby gifts; Frankenstein as a sort of baby; babies gold mines; babies as tiny Godzillas …Little Labors–atomized and exploratory, conceptually byzantine and freshly forthright–delights.
Recognized as a New York Times Notable Book of the Year, this work stands out for its compelling narrative and rich character development. It explores profound themes that resonate with readers, offering insights into the human experience. The author skillfully weaves a story that captivates and challenges perceptions, making it a significant addition to contemporary literature.
