Released: 4th May 2021
Genre: Science Fiction, Historical, Survival, LGBTQ
Number of Pages: 355
In recent years, Rivers Solomon’s writings have been heavily focused on race and the struggle of marginalised groups. Sorrowland is arguably their most searing and emotive effort to date. We follow Vern, an albino black woman who seeks to take charge of her own life. After escaping the restrictive commune of Cainland in the American mid-west, Vern finds herself hunted by treacherous forces. Having given birth to twins, the pressure quickly starts to mount with the added baggage of a physical transformation within her own body.
Keeping the perspective locked on Vern herself allows the reader to share in her personal growth; initially she’s a survivalist in the wilds, mostly relying on her own tenacity to take care of her children. Eventually she starts to reconnect with others and this is where the emotional core lies. All the way through, it doesn’t hold back on darker elements. The cruelty of humans, manipulation, the experiments performed on others against their consent; pieces of the bigger picture slowly come to light and we put them together alongside the protagonist. Both mentally and physically, Vern slowly comes out of her shell, eventually resolving to fight back against those responsible. Solomon tells this story through both internal thoughts and visceral language that heightens the danger.
Allegories and references to real world events are also woven into the plot in a very natural way. Vern’s physical transformation can be seen as a mirror to the transgender community; the slow. The characters are surrounding by the weight of oppression placed on marginalised communities by the US. The Native American and black populations have both suffered at the hands of forces determined to press them down; this is what brings the characters together so closely, a shared trauma that gives way to a passionate romance. The book’s second act is the longest and builds these strong bonds; this heightens the intensity of the climax as you’re deeply invested in the characters.
Recommended?
YES: Sorrowland’s unique blend of multiple genres creates a standout novel; Rivers does a great job of exploring historical trauma, sexuality and feminism in a straightforward and accessible story that places a heavy focus on its characters. My only issue was Vern’s hallucinations; they became a little overbearing over time and brought the story to a halt every time they appeared. Outside of this, it’s a highly engaging read.
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