About
Written in the aftermath of civil war, these early stories are among Mia Couto's freshest, most original fiction. In tales that mingle playful comedy with surprising plot twists and magical events, fishermen, fortune-tellers, widows, cross-dressers, small-town drinkers and even an errant hippopotamus, rediscover life's possibilities and the ability to dream. A new translation of brilliant stories by Man Booker-finalist and author of Confession of the Lioness.
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Reviews
"Stellar...offers fable-like gems capturing lives hurt and heroic, damaging and enduring...At a low point, Blind Estrelinho 'remained on the side of the road, like a balled-up handkerchief soaked with sadness,' and such language stuns throughout. A woman deserted by her husband, a problem child rushing to rescue her father-these are some of Couto's poignant stories. VERDICT Highly recommended."
Library Journal (starred review)
"Mia Couto's stories of civilisation and barbarity are told through a language that is precise and profound; he weaves together the living tradition of legend, poetry and song."
International Man Booker shortlist jury citation
"Convey[s] a sense of profound loss flecked with a measure of optimism about life after the bloodshed is over. An impressionistic flash-fiction trek through the wreckage of war."
Kirkus Reviews