"The Given World follows the inhabitants of one village in a river valley, a place as old as anywhere, for six months between the equinoxes of a year."
"At first, the central figure appears to be Clare, who knows each flagstone of the ancient priory that has been the centre of her life."
"In a way that pays tribute to the solitary Clare's understanding of interconnectedness, the novel goes out from the priory to trace a web of lives."
"It's to Harrison's credit that this novel of strong feminist bearings offers some of the most acute portrayals of intensely private experiences."
The Given World portrays the lives of villagers in a river valley over six months, capturing their interconnectedness and individual struggles. Central to the narrative is Clare, who faces her mortality while reflecting on her life. The story expands to include various characters, such as a desperate farmer and Saj the postman, illustrating the diverse experiences within the community. The novel emphasizes the significance of personal narratives against the backdrop of broader societal issues, showcasing strong feminist themes and acute character portrayals.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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