Throughout history, women have made significant contributions to the literary world, often in the face of adversity and societal barriers. From Sappho’s early works in ancient Greece to the groundbreaking novels of Virginia Woolf and Toni Morrison, women have consistently proven their ability to challenge norms and push the boundaries of literary expression.
Women have made significant strides in literature in recent years, now dominating the book publishing industry. According to data analyzed by economist Joel Waldfoge, women wrote just 10% of books in the 19th century. Still, by 2020 they were authoring most new books published in the United States.
This surge in female authorship has coincided with women accounting for a growing share of book sales and readership. Female-authored books now see greater sales, readership, and engagement metrics than the average book by a male author.
Enter Morgan Christie, an author dedicated her career to advocating for women in literature. Christie’s work explores the complex experiences of women, covering an extensive range of themes such as love, loss, identity, social injustice, and the resilience of the human spirit. Her latest novella, Liddle Deaths, specifically focuses on grief, family dynamics, and the lasting impact of a loved one’s passing. This novella is a compelling tribute to her work advocating for the representation of women’s experiences and narratives.
Liddle Deaths follows the story of Niya, a woman grappling with the recent passing of her father, Jacob, who suffered from a rare condition called Liddle syndrome. Unbeknownst to her mother, Anita, Niya secretly arranges for an autopsy to determine the cause of her father’s death. As Niya navigates the aftermath of her loss, she uncovers secrets and confronts the complexities of her relationships with her parents.
The story explores how accumulating small, everyday losses and griefs can significantly shape an individual’s life. Christie intertwines Niya’s personal and professional life, incorporating her efforts to adapt her book into a film alongside the revelation of her father’s financial assets.
A particularly touching element of the novella is the tense relationship between Niya and her mother, Anita. As both women grapple with their grief differently, Christie delves into the intricacies of mother-daughter dynamics and the challenges of communication and understanding.
Throughout Liddle Deaths, Niya’s journey of self-discovery and healing is punctuated by her decision to establish a community center in her father’s name. This memorialization stands as a reminder of the lasting influence of a loved one’s life and underscores the significance of discovering purpose amidst grief.
Liddle Deaths emerges as a shining example of female authors’ pivotal role in shaping and enriching literature. Christie’s ability to capture the nuances of the human experience, particularly those of women, is a reminder of the power of storytelling to connect, heal, and inspire.
As we celebrate women’s achievements in literature, it is crucial to recognize the ongoing need for greater representation and equity. Books like Liddle Deaths serve as a rallying cry for amplifying diverse voices and experiences. Through the works of authors like Morgan Christie, we can continue to break down barriers, challenge societal norms, and create a more inclusive and empowering literary landscape for future generations.
Published by: Khy Talara
