The Brilliant Historical Fiction Novel Zadie Smith Didn’t Want To Write
BOOKS
BY LAURA BRADING
If you’ve ever heard the words ‘historical fiction’ and thought ‘boring’, you are not alone. I myself love a literary trip back in time, but there is certainly an attitude amongst contemporary fiction purists that historical novels belong in the dreary, less sexy section of the library.
In fact, even literary darling Zadie Smith recently admitted to a prejudice against the form. In an article in The New Yorker, Smith explained that her preconceptions came from her student days when she thought of historical novels as “aesthetically and politically conservative by definition”. In other words: dull.
And so, it is very interesting that Smith’s sixth novel, a kaleidoscopically brilliant story about literature, justice, class and race, belongs firmly in the genre of historical fiction.
Meet The Women Making Thousands From Their Wardrobes
BY CAROLINE ZIELINSKI
Put aside any judgements you might have about historical novels and button up your bonnet, because when Zadie Smith does historical fiction, it’s anything but dull. Read our full review at PRIMER.
READ IT HERE
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