In the Dream House: Winner of The Rathbones Folio Prize 2021

In the Dream House is a powerful memoir by Carmen Maria Machado that explores the mechanisms and cultural representations of psychological abuse. It examines the full arc of a harrowing experience with a charismatic but volatile woman through a bold dissection of legal proceedings, fairy tales, Star Trek, Disney villains, and iconic works of film and fiction.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 01 October 2020
Publisher: Profile Books Ltd

In the Dream House is a captivating and daring memoir by Carmen Maria Machado that delves into the depths of a tumultuous relationship. Through a series of captivating chapters, Machado explores the full arc of her harrowing experience with a charismatic yet volatile woman, offering a bold and insightful dissection of the mechanisms and cultural representations of psychological abuse.

Each chapter in In the Dream House presents the relationship from a different lens, as Machado skillfully holds events up to the light and examines them from distinct angles. She employs her characteristic wit, playfulness, and openness to enquiry to cast a critical eye over legal proceedings, fairy tales, Star Trek, Disney villains, iconic works of film and fiction, and more. The result is a powerful and thought-provoking book that challenges our preconceived notions about what a memoir can achieve and be.

Machado's writing is exquisite, with her prose flowing effortlessly and her vivid descriptions bringing the reader into the heart of the story. Her use of language is masterful, as she seamlessly blends humor, tragedy, and introspection to create a deeply moving and unforgettable narrative.

In the Dream House is not just a memoir; it is a meditation on the nature of relationships, power dynamics, and the complexities of human behavior. Machado explores the ways in which societal norms and cultural expectations can perpetuate abuse, as well as the resilience and strength that can be found in the face of adversity.

This book is a must-read for anyone who has ever experienced trauma or struggled with interpersonal relationships. It offers a powerful and empathetic perspective on a topic that is often overlooked or misunderstood. Machado's writing is both accessible and profound, making it accessible to a wide range of readers.

In conclusion, In the Dream House is a masterpiece that deserves to be celebrated and discussed. Carmen Maria Machado's writing is stunning, her insights are profound, and her story is unforgettable. This book is a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of literature to shed light on the darker aspects of human experience. I highly recommend it to anyone who seeks to explore the depths of the human mind and heart.

Weight: 248g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781788162258
Edition number: Main