Bellevue

Ivana Dobrakovová, trans. by Julia and Peter Sherwood (Jantar Publishing)

With a limited amount of Slovak literature having been translated into the English language this novel from Slovak writer Ivana Dobrakovová is an intriguing introduction. We are introduced to protagonist Blanka who is embarking on a trip to Marseille during a summer break to become a care-worker at a centre for people with physical disabilities. During her stay her mental wellbeing declines. With detailed descriptions of her thought process and relationships with family, friends and colleagues reeled off with haste it’s difficult not to imagine the turmoil she is experiencing within her mind. Although this is an unsettling tale of how our minds can unravel it is an extremely well written account. It’s no surprise to discover that Dobrakovová has been awarded the European Union Prize for Literature for previous work and this translated work will undoubtedly introduce new readers to Slovak writing. RH

Price: £12 Info: www.jantarpublishing.com