This is a uniquely structured novel set in an unnamed city during the Troubles in Northern Ireland. The story is narrated by an eighteen-year-old girl, referred to as "middle sister," as she goes about her daily life in a society rife with political tensions and societal expectations. Amid the backdrop of an oppressive atmosphere, she becomes the target of unwanted attention from a senior paramilitary figure known as "Milkman," leading to rumors and misunderstandings that threaten her safety.
There's a lot to unpack in this book. The author addresses many themes, from gender roles and expectations, to identity and individuality, as well as political conflict and division.
This was not an easy read for me. The stream-of-consciousness narrative style, and the author's use of long, winding sentences can be hard to get used to. The prose is dense and layered, which I think requires careful reading to fully grasp the nuances of the narrative. While I appreciate that this stylistic choice mirrors the protagonist's state of mind, it's not the most straightforward and enjoyable read. But if you really take your time with this book, I think its worth the challenge. The author's writing is brilliant, and the way she portrays the characters and atmosphere of Northern Ireland during that time is truly remarkable. I think I will be reading this book again so that I can get more out of it.
Overall, I found this to be a thought-provoking novel that captures the unsettling tension of living amidst political turmoil. The author addresses important themes and explores an important historical event in a unique and layered way. While this might not have been the most enjoyable reading experience for me, it really was an insightful one that I appreciated.
I read this as part of my project to Read All the Booker Prize Winners. Milkman won the prize on 2018.
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