|
12 of 13 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
impossible saints, 8 April 2003
By A Customer
Impossible Saints is beautifully written, definitely one of Michèle Roberts' best novels. The author concerns herself with her trademark themes - they have been described as 'food, sex and God'. This particular novel tells the story of Josephine, a character inspired by, but definitely not, Saint Teresa of Avila. Josephine is separated from her best friend and sent to a convent by her father. She tries to live as a devout nun but eventually questions her faith and the life she has been living. Although marriage or the convent are the only two respectable options for women, she makes a better life for herself. This central story is interrupted by short stories, each bearing the name of a saint - Saint Paula, Saint Petronilla, Saint Agnes...These stories are fairy tale like, grotesque in places and often deliciously subversive. These short chapters contribute to the whole novel but are also wonderful short stories if read in isolation. The whole book asks the reader to consider what it is to be 'good' or 'bad' as a woman. Although there are many examples of women being treated cruelly there are as many instances of liberation and even revenge. A wonderful book, thoroughly recommended.
|