Lionel Shriver Collection

In the Lionel Shriver Collection, readers are invited to delve into the intricacies of life and identity through the lens of Serenata, a character navigating her sixties with both resilience and introspection. This collection features three compelling works that showcase Shriver’s masterful storytelling and keen psychological insights.

The Plot

Each narrative unfolds a different aspect of Serenata's life, exploring themes of aging, societal expectations, and personal fulfilment. The stories are rich with character development, allowing readers to witness Serenata's struggles and triumphs as she confronts the challenges that come with her age.

Themes

• Identity: The collection delves into how our sense of self evolves over time.
• Relationships: The dynamics of friendships, family ties, and romantic entanglements are scrutinised.
• Societal Norms: Shriver questions the pressures placed upon individuals by society as they age.

With her characteristic wit and penetrating observations, Shriver invites readers to reflect on their own lives and the universal experiences of love, loss, and the relentless passage of time. Fans of her previous works, such as We Need to Talk About Kevin and So Much for That, will find familiar themes of moral complexity and emotional depth woven throughout this collection.

"Shriver's prose is both sharp and poignant, illuminating the human condition in all its flawed beauty."