Winter Stories by Ingvild H. RishøiMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
I stumbled on this beautiful book at Barnes and Noble and what a gem. It's translated fiction from Norwegian; 3 short stories with the first being my favorite but the other 2 just as fragile and literary-painted. Each set in winter, thus the title, echos the hardness of the weather and the hardness of these strong characters within.
First story introduces us to a weary, single mother and her energetic, young daughter; the two are on their way home at the end of the day in the rain. There is little money and it's a decision to take the bus or not. Their small story was profound and played like a sad song that lasts long after it ends.
Second story about a man who has been incarcerated and he tries to pave the future for his son with sheltering the son from the father's past. It was a bit confusing keeping when timelines came into play but it ties up well.
And finally, the third story is about siblings who run away. This one was probbaly my 2nd favorite - the older sister fiercely loves and protects her little sister and brother so much that she orchestrates an adventure for them. The weather was woven into all these with the 1st and 3rd story heightened in emotion, I think, perhaps because the reader can sense the cold and need for solution.
Most enjoyable - I hope to read more from this writer. Translated fiction gem.
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