Queasy

In Queasy, the award-winning author of Afflictions & Departures explores England in the 1970s, navigating cultural differences, social and political turmoil, and the rise of Margaret Thatcher. This experience inspired her personal and writing development.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 25 May 2022
Publisher: Anvil Press

The acclaimed author of Afflictions & Departures delves into the vibrant tapestry of England during the 1970s in her captivating series of linked memoirs titled Queasy. While grappling with the profound loss of her father and the dissolution of her first romantic relationship, Madeline Sonik embarked on a transformative journey with her mother, relocating from Windsor, Ontario, to the picturesque seaside village of Ilfracombe in North Devon, England.

Navigating the tumultuous terrain of adolescence, Madeline grappled with internal conflicts, unaware of the profound cultural disparities that awaited her in this foreign land. The social and political landscape of England during this era was a tumultuous symphony, characterized by trade union strikes, mass unemployment, IRA violence, and burdensome taxes. Amidst this tumultuous backdrop, Madeline found solace in the everyday experiences of life.

Working as a waitress and chambermaid at local hotels, she engaged in spirited political discussions with friends and colleagues, savoring hot cups of tea throughout the day and indulging in pints of lager in the evenings. The towering figure of Margaret Thatcher, known as the Iron Lady, loomed large as the opposition leader, gaining widespread popularity even among segments of the working class. The country teetered on the brink of change, poised to embark on a new chapter in its history.

Within this paradoxical realm of hope and despair, of promise and discord, Madeline discovered the nourishment that would fuel her personal growth and artistic development. The experiences she encountered in England during the 1970s became the wellspring of her writing, shaping her perspective and inspiring her literary creations. Queasy offers a poignant and immersive journey through a pivotal period in history, providing a glimpse into the lives of individuals who weathered the storms of change and emerged stronger on the other side.

ISBN-13: 9781772141894