Shelter

Three stories from the Dutch short story collection Nederzettigen explore the theme of displacement and the desire for change and stability, featuring characters who are displaced in different ways but share a conflicting longing for both.

Format: Paperback / softback
Publication date: 22 September 2020
Publisher: UEA Publishing Project

This trio of stories, taken from the author's Dutch short story collection Nederzettigen, follows a diverse group of individuals as they navigate the complexities of building a meaningful existence. Despite their varied backgrounds and displacement experiences, each character shares a common yearning for both change and stability. Through vivid and concise storytelling, Van Hassel vividly portrays three tales set against the backdrop of a fragmented society.

The first story, titled "De Scheepsjongens," introduces us to a group of sailors who find themselves stranded on a remote island. Despite their initial despair and hopelessness, they gradually adapt to their new surroundings and form a close-knit community. However, their newfound stability is threatened when a mysterious stranger arrives on the island, carrying a dark secret. As tensions rise, the sailors must confront their fears and confront the truth about their existence.

In the second story, "De Duivel," we meet a young man named Jan who has recently lost his job and is struggling to find his place in the world. He becomes fascinated with a mysterious woman named Anna, who claims to be a demon. Jan's fascination with Anna leads him down a dangerous path, as he becomes increasingly involved in her dark rituals and sinister activities. However, as he delves deeper into her world, Jan begins to question whether Anna truly is a demon or if there is something more sinister at play.

The third story, titled "De Reis," follows a group of travelers as they embark on a journey across a barren and desolate landscape. As they struggle to survive in the harsh conditions, they begin to question the purpose of their journey and the meaning of their lives. They encounter a variety of strange and enigmatic characters along the way, each with their own unique story and perspective. However, as they near their destination, they discover that their journey has been far more transformative than they could have ever imagined.

Through these three stories, Van Hassel explores the themes of displacement, identity, and the search for meaning in a world that is often fragmented and uncertain. The characters are complex and relatable, and their journeys are filled with both triumph and tragedy. The writing is masterful, with vivid descriptions and powerful emotions that leave a lasting impression on the reader.

In conclusion, "The Restless Times" is a remarkable collection of short stories that offers a powerful exploration of the human condition. Van Hassel's storytelling is masterful, and his characters are unforgettable. This collection is a must-read for anyone who appreciates fine literature and is interested in exploring the complexities of the human experience.

Weight: 72g
Dimension: 130 x 209 x 9 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781911343332