Catfish Rolling

A debut novel that blends magic-realism with Japanese myth and legend, exploring themes of grief, memory, time, and an earthquake that shook a nation. Sora is recruited by her father to explore liminal spaces where time runs faster or slower than normal, but it is dangerous. She must venture into these spaces to find her father, mother, and the catfish itself. The novel is stylish, accomplished, and thought-provoking, suitable for 14+ readers.

Format: Hardback
Length: 432 pages
Publication date: 02 March 2023
Publisher: Head of Zeus

A captivating debut that seamlessly blends magic realism with Japanese myth and legend, this original tale delves into profound themes of grief, memory, time, and an earthquake that shook a nation. Nestled beneath the islands of Japan lies a mysterious catfish, whose mere presence causes the land to tremble and sway. Sora, a young girl deeply affected by the catfish's destructive powers, harbours a deep hatred for it. The earthquake it caused was so catastrophic that it shattered the very fabric of time itself, leaving behind a trail of destruction that claimed her home and took the life of her mother. Now, Sora and her scientist father reside near the zones, where time flows at varying speeds, creating a unique and perilous environment. Sora possesses a heightened sensitivity to these temporal shifts, making her an invaluable asset in their exploration of these liminal spaces. However, the dangers lurking within these regions are manifold, and as Sora ventures deeper into the unknown, she discovers that time distorts, memories fracture, and shadows of things not entirely human linger. Determined to find her father, her mother, and perhaps even the catfish itself, Sora must brave the treacherous depths of the time zones. Along her journey, she confronts profound questions about identity, philosophy, science, ecology, life, loss, and love. This stylish, accomplished, and thought-provoking story-telling is suitable for readers aged 14 and above, offering a captivating and immersive experience that will leave a lasting impression.

Weight: 556g
Dimension: 145 x 224 x 38 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781803288048