Fly Away, Pigeon

Melinda Nadj Abonji's novel "Fly Away, Pigeon" tells the story of a family torn between emigration and immigration, depicting the history of three generations of the Kocsis family and their hard-won assimilation in Switzerland. The book explores the pain and loss of immigration, showcasing the universal emotions and struggles of the human dilemma.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 294 pages
Publication date: 05 August 2022
Publisher: Seagull Books London Ltd

In her novel, Melinda Nadj Abonji intricately weaves two narrative threads, recounting the history of three generations of the Kocsis family and documenting their arduous journey of assimilation. Originally part of Serbia's Hungarian-speaking minority in the Vojvodina, the Kocsis family emigrates to Switzerland in the early 1970s, when their hometown is still part of the Yugoslav republic. Parents Miklos and Rosza arrive in Switzerland with only one word in their vocabulary: "work." After three years of arduous and menial labor, both legal and illegal, they secure visas for their two young daughters, Ildiko and Nomi, who safely join them. However, despite their unwavering efforts to adapt and integrate, they face constant insults and prejudice from members of their new community. They witness the devastating consequences of the Balkan War, as their friends and family back home endure the turmoil and suffering.

Through a combination of tough-minded nostalgia and compassionate realism, Fly Away, Pigeon vividly portrays the depth of pain and loss that even the most successful immigrant stories encompass. It is a work that is deeply rooted in the histories and cultures of two distinct communities, yet its emotions and struggles resonate with universal human dilemmas. The novel explores the complexities of identity, belonging, and the search for a better life, shedding light on the challenges and sacrifices faced by immigrants and their families.

With its vivid descriptions and evocative portraits, Fly Away, Pigeon offers a poignant reflection on the human experience and the complexities of migration. It serves as a testament to the resilience and determination of individuals and families who navigate the treacherous waters of emigration and immigration, seeking a brighter future for themselves and their loved ones.

Dimension: 8 x 5 x 1 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781803090481