The Healer

The Healer, Marek Vadass' first collection, blends traditional African narrative forms with European modernism to explore the culture, rituals, and traditions of Africa. The stories are populated with characters whose gender, shape, skin color, or memories may change, and blend mythical elements with realistic depictions of harsh living conditions, economic deprivation, and colonial oppression. Vadas is a rare voice that helps to build bridges between different cultures, and his writing is now introduced to the global anglophone readership.

Format: Hardback
Length: 150 pages
Publication date: 06 May 2023
Publisher: Seagull Books London Ltd

The Healer, Marek Vadass debut collection, published in 2006, delves into the rich tapestry of African culture, rituals, and traditions, blurring the lines between dream and reality. Within these captivating stories, characters emerge with fluid genders, shapes, skin colors, and even memories that can transform at the whims of the narrative. However, Vadass avoids perpetuating stereotypes and instead presents a nuanced and authentic portrayal of this world. Many of the stories, conveyed in a pared-down language, seamlessly blend mythical elements with realistic depictions of harsh living conditions, economic deprivation, and colonial oppression. The narratives unfold from the perspectives of their protagonists, including children, often orphaned, and men struggling to make ends meet while resisting the allure of powerful women possessing magical powers. As a Slovak writer with a deep fascination for the African continent, Vadass occupies a unique position in bridging the cultural gap between diverse communities. His writing is now reaching a global audience in the English language, making a significant impact on the literary landscape.

Weight: 362g
Dimension: 158 x 239 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781803091624