This was a deeply reflective read: a blend of lush nature and landscape, and searing emotional pain and community ills. A great translation from Holly James, this slim book packs a punch. I can see why it won the English PEN Translates award and the Swiss Prix Goncourt as it’s both a literary and timely exploration of trauma.
A woman’s journey from childhood violence to healing
The narrator hails from a remote Swiss mountain village and the novel beautifully captures the rhythm of rural life while unflinchingly confronting the lasting impact of childhood trauma and domestic violence.
The narrator, shaped by these experiences, is a compelling figure: fractured, emotionally complex, and at times difficult to love, which only adds to the depth and honesty of the story.
What stood out most to me was the narrator’s journey: trying to understand and show compassion for those around her, especially her mother…and herself. There’s a quiet exploration of class as well, particularly when she returns to her hometown after building a life by the shores of Lake Geneva.
Forming an identity
While the book begins in childhood and reflects sensitively on that time, it’s in the adult sections where the author’s voice truly comes into its own.
There’s something both fragile and defiant about the narrator’s sense of self.
The novel does an excellent job of examining the complexities of love: how it can heal, but also how it forces us to confront uncomfortable truths about ourselves and our pasts.
Why you should read this book
My Favourite felt like a surprise discovery, as I don’t often read Swiss literature, but this book felt incredibly full and well-formed.
It’s a mature, compassionate, and thought-provoking piece of writing. Definitely one to read when you have the time and space to sit with it, reflect, and let it resonate.
One word: searing.
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