Owlish

Set in the mysterious city of Nevers, "Owlish" is an uncanny and evocative debut novel that explores themes of love, identity, and memory through the story of a literature professor who becomes enamored with a seemingly mechanical ballerina named Aliss. As he immerses himself in this surreal romance, the city itself reveals shifting secrets and unfamiliar terrains, reflecting the protagonist’s internal awakening. Awarded the 2021 PEN/Heim Translation Fund grant, this haunting tale delves into life under oppressive regimes with a blend of atmospheric mystique and bold storytelling.