Naomi Weisman is a Canadian-Australian and mother of three, who loves to ramble with her dog, cook for family and friends, and laugh whenever possible.
I just love to read books within a book. This style of fiction feels like a reimagined journey with characters I am already familiar with. It's almost like a new adventure with old friends.
Alice Hoffman's The Invisible Hour is a fascinating blend of historical fiction and intertextuality. It masterfully intertwines elements from Nathaniel Hawthorne's The Scarlet Letter (1850) with a fresh narrative. In this narrative, Hawthorne himself becomes a character and a love interest, all through the captivating concept of time travel.
The first part of the book is centered around a modern-day cult in western Massachusetts, where women who fail to obey the rigid rules set by despotic leader Joel Davis must wear letters around their necks or permanent branding on their arms.
Mia, a young woman trapped in this oppressive cult, shares a deeply emotional relationship with her mother, Ivy, whom she rarely sees. Despite the community's ban on books and reading, Mia's profound love for literature drives her to seek solace in the town library on market days, a small act of rebellion against the cult's strict rules. It's here that she discovers a copy of The Scarlet Letter and falls deeply in love with the words within.
The book's second part has Mia traveling back in time to when Nathaniel Hawthorne was at a crossroads in his life. His family is depending on him to write the masterpiece they know he is capable of, but he is in a funk and needs more inspiration. When he meets Mia, the inspiration reveals itself through her life experience and view of how the world could be.
One of the hallmarks of Alice Hoffman’s style of fiction is the use of mystical realism. Even though her stories often depart from reality, the reader can still relate to the feelings and point of view within the narrative. Having read the Scarlet Letter and watched the movie starring Demi Moore and Gary Oldman, I found the familiarity added to the enjoyment of this novel.
This thematic exploration of rebellion and passion for literature will inspire and engage you! Enjoy!
READ MORE > Nomi's Pics, Rambler Cafe Blog
Leave a comment