Reading Recluse📘 "The Wax Child" by Olga Ravn, translated from Danish into English by Martin Aitken
Another IBP longlist entry that has a unique writing style and structure. I'm really enjoying reading all of these creative, non-conventional ways of storytelling.
This book is told from the perspective of a consciousness that has come forth from the creation of a doll of a child made out of wax. Based on true events, we indirectly get involved with some of the witch trials that happened in Denmark in the 17th century and what lead up to them.
I had a good time with the novel. I loved how the narrator could be both personal and distant, zoom in and zoom out, giving us the view of a fly on the wall or an omnipresent observer. The women, their friendships, their betrayals, the spells, all were great to see. But best of all were the moments that made me go: what the hell?!
I thought the build-up towards the ending was well done and the last paragraph was a welcome, little gut punch. After finishing the book I read a variety of online sources about Christence Kruckow, recognizing scenes from the book directly from real history, which was interesting.
If you liked this book, I'm sure you'll also enjoy Angela Slatter's books that are set in the Sourdough Universe. They have a similar dark atmosphere and a focus on witchcraft in dangerous times.
