Pearl by Siân Hughes

About this book

Blurb from Exclusive Books:

Marianne is eight years old when her mother goes missing. Left behind with her baby brother and grieving father in a ramshackle house on the edge of a small village, she clings to the fragmented memories of her mother’s love; the smell of fresh herbs, the games they played, and the songs and stories of her childhood. As time passes, Marianne struggles to adjust, fixated on her mother’s disappearance and the secrets she’s sure her father is keeping from her. Discovering a medieval poem called Pearl and trusting in its promise of consolation, Marianne sets out to make a visual illustration of it, a task that she returns to over and over but somehow never manages to complete. Tormented by an unmarked gravestone in an abandoned chapel and the tidal pull of the river, her childhood home begins to crumble as the past leads her down a path of self-destruction. But can art heal Marianne? And will her own future as a mother help her find peace?

EAN: 9781911648529
PUBLISHED BY: The Indigo Press

My Thoughts:

“Pearl” by Siân Hughes is a deeply moving novel that follows Marianne as she navigates life after the sudden disappearance of her mother when she was just eight years old. The last sign of her mother is a footprint at the river, leaving Marianne grappling with unanswered questions and a lack of closure. The story unfolds through Marianne’s childhood and adulthood, exploring her struggle to survive without her mother and her journey to become one herself.

Themes:

The central theme of “Pearl” is grief and the profound impact it has on a person’s life. The novel delves into the complexities of coping with loss, especially without closure. Mental wellbeing is another significant theme, as Hughes explores Marianne’s mental health challenges, including postpartum depression and self-harm. The story also highlights the importance of human connections and shared experiences in shaping our realities. Additionally, the book touches on motherhood, identity, and the stories we tell ourselves.

What Worked:

The confessional and straightforward style of the narrative, coupled with rich descriptions, makes “Pearl” a compelling read. Although the book deals with heavy themes of loss and grief, Hughes manages to avoid becoming overly morose by maintaining a balanced tone. The author’s exploration of mental wellbeing is thoughtful and well-integrated into the story. The ending is particularly impactful, providing a sense of resolution and hope. The character study of Marianne is beautifully written, portraying her struggle to find answers and closure in a touching and realistic manner. The use of nursery rhymes, folk tales, and fairy stories adds a poetic layer to the narrative.

Who May Enjoy This Book:

“Pearl” will appeal to readers who appreciate character-driven stories and lyrical prose. Those interested in exploring themes of grief, mental health, and motherhood will find this novel both poignant and insightful. Fans of historical and literary fiction will enjoy the rich descriptions and the emotional depth of the narrative. This book is also suitable for readers who seek stories of hope and healing amidst loss.

Conclusion:

“Pearl” by Siân Hughes is a beautiful and lyrical novel that captures the ache of grief and the journey to healing with profound sensitivity. Marianne’s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of connection and understanding. Hughes’ exploration of motherhood, identity, and mental health adds depth to the narrative, making it a truly memorable read. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a touching and beautifully written novel.

Thank you to Exclusive Books for the chance to read this book.

About the Author:

Siân Hughes – The Indigo Press

@roelia_reads Bookmail day! I am thrilled to be able to add these reads to my reading list! Pearl by Siân Hughes A Serial Killer’s Guide to Marriage by Asia Mackay Open When… by Dr Julie Smith Thank you @Exclusive Books – #EBRecommends all the way! #RoeliaReads #ExclusiveBooks #SianHughes #AsiaMacKay #DrJulieSmith @Jonathan Ball Publishers @Penguin Random House SA ♬ Lost in a Book – Outer Circle