Lisa and her guest Rachel Kramer Bussel discuss Room by Emma Donoghue in 2010. This is a dark book told in 5-year-old Jack’s perspective about his experience in “room,” with his ma where they are being held captive. This is a mature discussion that wouldn’t be suitable for young children.
Rachel and Lisa discuss how the book is emotionally devastating but a hopeful story. There are full spoilers in this show.
Links Discussed on the show:
Author Emma Donoghue says on her website Room was written after experiencing the claustrophobia of parenthood and is a metaphor about that experience. She also says that the book was partially inspired by the case of Elisabeth Fritzl who was held prisoner by her father for 24 years and gave birth to seven children during that time.
After Room was published, on May 6, 2013, ABC News reported Cleveland witnessed a miracle when Amanda Berry called 911. Berry along with Gina DeJesus, and Michelle Knight, had been held captive for more than nine years.
The New York Times describes how Donoghue portrays the voice of Jack and the LA Times discusses some very fast shifts in characters and plot.
Books Discussed on the show:
· Living Dead Girl by Elizabeth Scott
· Little Beauties by Kim Addonizio
· A Concise Chinese-English Dictionary for Lovers by Xiaolu Guo
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*The book titles mentioned include affiliate links. You can support the podcast by purchasing a book with the links because the podcast receives a small commission.