In Vigil, a dying oil magnate is visited by ghosts
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Vigil
George Saunders, Bloomsbury
Novellas have a unique charm that can captivate readers in a short amount of time. George Saunders, known for his acclaimed work “Lincoln in the Bardo,” delves into the supernatural in his novella “Vigil.” The story revolves around the ghost of Jill “Doll” Blaine, who descends to Earth to witness the final moments of oil tycoon K.J. Boone.
Jill’s role is to provide comfort to souls, but Boone, content with his life choices despite their moral implications, proves to be a challenging case. As the narrative unfolds during Boone’s last hours, other ghosts and family members converge for a moment of reckoning. Jill, the narrator, grapples with her own past while tending to Boone, showcasing Saunders’s exquisite prose and aversion to clichés.
While the writing is undeniably brilliant, some readers may find the resolution of “Vigil” lacking in depth. The desire for a deeper understanding of Boone’s character and more exploration of Jill’s backstory may leave them wanting more. Nevertheless, the thematic relevance and artistic merit of Saunders’s work make it a compelling read deserving of multiple interpretations.
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While interesting people keep writing interesting-sounding novellas, I feel obliged to keep reading them
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Switching gears to Matthew Kressel’s “The Rainseekers,” readers are immersed in a series of interconnected short stories set on a terraformed Mars. Protagonist Sakunja Salazar embarks on a journey to witness the first rain on the Red Planet, accompanied by a diverse group of fellow explorers.
Kressel expertly weaves individual narratives into a cohesive storyline, painting a vivid picture of a futuristic solar system. While Sakunja may not resonate with all readers, the storytelling prowess displayed in “The Rainseekers” offers a poignant reflection on human aspirations and the evolving landscape of space exploration.
For those intrigued by themes of climate change and human accountability, Tim Winton’s “Juice” presents a compelling narrative set in a distant future where past mistakes come back to haunt a select few. With a gripping storyline and thought-provoking subject matter, Winton’s work is a standout choice for readers seeking a blend of speculative fiction and social commentary.
Emily H. Wilson is a versatile author with a penchant for speculative fiction. Her insights into the literary world and ongoing projects reflect a deep passion for storytelling. Stay connected with Emily on Instagram @emilyhwilson1 for more updates on her work.
