The Mookse and the Gripes discussion

Not a River by Selva Almada translated by Annie McDermott (Charco), Spanish/Argentina

This is the only one I've read so far and I thought it was excellent - I love the way Almada develops her style for each book and yet does not lose the plot. The toxic masculinity theme is strong in each book and here it's at it's best.

Read this yesterday and felt the McCarthy-esque style that McDermott channeled in the translation worked perfectly for this type of story. It's very impressive to be able to convey such meaning and depth to the characters and plot in so few words.

Rachel, was this your first Almada/McDermott? This is the third from Charco. Does anyone have thoughts on whether they should be read in sequence? I skipped Brickmakers.

David wrote: "Rachel, was this your first Almada/McDermott? This is the third from Charco. Does anyone have thoughts on whether they should be read in sequence? I skipped Brickmakers."

It was my first! I have had Brickmakers for a while but have yet to get to it. Obviously I cannot speak to whether they should be read in order (but here I go anyways!), but my impression was that Almada's focus on masculinity through the three books is similar to Baltasar's focus on women through her triptych and so are connected thematically but not necessary to read sequentially. Whether that is an accurate impression, not sure!

David wrote: "Rachel, was this your first Almada/McDermott? This is the third from Charco. Does anyone have thoughts on whether they should be read in sequence? I skipped Brickmakers."

no need to read them in sequence - if you do though you'll see the style evolve

This is my favorite of the longlist. I sort of knew what to expect as I read and loved Brickmakers.

I wonder what others make of the nonlinear structure. It sure added suspense and intrigue. I don't think it all added up nicely at the end, but presumably that was the idea? Rivers often symbolize the (chronological) run of time, but this was Not a River.

Nice translator's note too - for me they can add those always.

I finished this today. I enjoyed it. I liked the intertwining non-linear storylines.