I’ve already mentioned in this review column before that Ali Smith is my favourite author, so it was with great joy that I noticed two books written by her were released earlier this year: the new novel Autumn and the story collection Public Library and other stories.
Smith’s Autumn is a return to more traditional storytelling when compared to her last few novels. It’s the story of a woman named Elisabeth and her lifelong friendship with a much older neighbour.
This is the first in a four-part series, each seasonally themed and tied into UK social issues. The novel is set immediately following Brexit and the volatility of the political climate.
In her early 30s, Elisabeth is trying to navigate a world that doesn’t really make sense to her anymore as she copes with the serious illness of her geriatric best friend and the nation’s political unrest.
Elisabeth, with no father and an often-absent mother, bonds with Daniel as he teaches her about art and storytelling. They play games that are meant to alter how the young girl perceives the world and she never forgets his lessons.
Her mother, originally portrayed as a ridiculous figure, becomes increasingly sympathetic as her own story twist becomes apparent.
Smith’s novels aren’t easy reading. The story isn’t linear; there are lots of historical meanderings, and Smith’s wordplay can go on for pages at a time. It’s worth the extra effort, though. Autumn is funny, beautifully written, politically poignant and finally, hopeful. At the end, I felt as though the main message was one of kindness and love, a rarity these days as we scroll through an increasingly damaging news cycle.
Public Library is a celebration of libraries, of literacy, of words. Smith’s collection is a reminder of why libraries are important and worth fighting for, and her writing is full of whimsy.
Both Autumn and Public Libraries are available at various branches.
Rachel Rosenberg is originally from Montreal. Her favourite novels include Ali Smith’s Hotel World and David Sedaris’s Dress Your Family In Corduroy and Denim. She is a library technician at RPL’s Ironwood branch.
