Flotsam

Flotsam is a coming-of-age story from 1950s Germany, told in a taut style by Meike Ziervogel, that examines grief and loss through the eyes of an extraordinary child Rachel Seiffert.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 128 pages
\n Publication date: 15 April 2019
\n Publisher: Salt Publishing
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Flotsam is a captivating and unsettling novel that delves into the depths of grief and loss through the unique perspective of an extraordinary child, Rachel Seiffert. Set in a picturesque cottage on the German coast, Trine and her mother live amidst the ever-changing mudflats influenced by the North Sea tides. Despite their solitary existence, each family member has found their own way to adapt and cope. Anna, for instance, explores the beaches, collecting flotsam and jetsam to create art, while Trine finds solace in playing on a wartime shipwreck. However, their peaceful routine is shattered when Trine loses her beloved brother.

In her captivating storytelling style, Meike Ziervogel transports readers back to 1950s Germany, a country still grappling with the echoes of war. A society where people tend to ignore the presence of ghosts, Flotsam explores the complexities of human emotions and the resilience of the human spirit. Through Rachel's eyes, we witness the struggles and triumphs of a young girl navigating the aftermath of loss, as she grapples with the profound impact it has on her family and herself.

The novel's setting on the German coast adds an additional layer of depth and authenticity to the story. The mudflats, with their constant ebb and flow, symbolize the ever-changing nature of life and the challenges individuals face in adapting to change. The family's isolation, although lonely, allows them to confront their emotions and find solace in their unique ways. Anna's artistic pursuits, for instance, provide her with a means of expression and healing, while Trine's connection to the shipwreck offers her a sense of connection to her brother's memory.

As the story unfolds, Rachel's journey of self-discovery and growth is palpable. She learns to embrace her uniqueness and find strength in her memories of her brother. Through her interactions with other characters, particularly her grandmother and a young boy named Peter, Rachel gains a deeper understanding of the complexities of grief and the importance of resilience.

Flotsam is a beautifully written and emotionally resonant novel that offers a profound exploration of loss and the human spirit. Meike Ziervogel's taut style and vivid portrayal of 1950s Germany make for a compelling read that will leave readers reflecting on the power of love, resilience, and the healing potential of art.

\n Weight: 128g\n
Dimension: 196 x 129 x 10 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781784631789\n \n