REVIEWS Atlantic Books Today
Emilia Morgan reviews an artfully curated collection of speculative short fiction that contends with the reality of unquantifiable loss
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ollected in the pages of Thyme Travellers is an array of stories so varied and disparate, yet expertly linked in their collective imagination. This collection of speculative short fiction brings together authors from the global Palestinian diaspora to engage in an extraordinary act of world building through storytelling and reimagining pasts and futures that have been erased, denied, and suppressed. The stories are exemplary of the Palestinian experience—at once bleak and hopeful, joyful and tragic, and all affirming the same truth: we were here, we are still here, and we imagine a future where we remain. In “A Table Set for Two,” it is the year 2048, and a scientist who is tasked with observing the past has the opportunity to change it. In “The Generation Chip,” three grandchildren inherit Teta Hind’s memories and dreams of a place both familiar and alien, present and absent, real and imagined. Here, editor Sonia Suleiman has artfully curated a collection that highlights the conflicting desires that arise from exile, and yet the glimmering hope of return
permeates through stories that examine spiritual, cultural, linguistic, and material exile. These stories contend with the reality of unquantifiable loss by bursting Roseway Publishing outwards and forwards into imagined futures and surreal folklores that ripple beyond the present and speak to the potential of imagination as a liberatory practice. And what better genre than speculative fiction to act as a vehicle for the things we wish so much to say, but cannot find the words to express? With the continued profound loss felt by Palestinians everywhere, this collection serves as a salve for the wounded psyche—a glimmer of hope in the minds of Palestinian writers, and perhaps a catalyst for those who have yet to find their voice. ■ EMILIA MORGAN is a Palestinian literary editor, writer, and co-founder of Coven Editions small press.
Andre Fenton reviews a lyrical poetry collection from an icon of contemporary Labrador culture
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amie Jackman’s debut collection opens with a passage about his inspiration, telling readers that this book began as an exercise to see if his lyrics could stand without piano, drums, bass, or vocals, and if his poems could flow into songs. He succeeds in showcasing his vibrant storytelling. But these poems do more than tell a story; they bring us into moments with layers and underlying messages, like the beginning of Storms: “If I don’t see you in my dreams tonight, I’ll see you in the morning with a cup of tea and the radio telling sailors to take warning” This excerpt, transitioning into a song about the hardships of navigating romance, is one of many stanzas that create a more intimate setting often missed in music, offering a sincere look into Jackman’s mind. The lead singer of Silver Wolf Band provides nuances that encourage reflection on our own connections, both in relationships and community.
I felt moved by the structure of Estuary, a strong opening leading to a catchy and soulful chorus.
Brack and Brine
“Don’t you forget that you were born before the storm came crashing through the thickets. Don’t you forget that you were born before the rain started coming down in buckets....... .....This is not a bay, no, this is an estuary. You said, “It’s not a bay, no, no, no, no, it’s more of an estuary.” This was an intriguing read, and a treat to jump into the creative process of a talented songwriter and poet like Jackman. Recommended to anyone who is searching for versatility and lyrical inspiration. ■ ANDRE FENTON is an award-winning African Nova Scotian author, spoken-word artist, screenwriter, and arts educator. NUMBER 100 | FALL 2024
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