Mermaid of Black Conch -- Background

[Marc]

We'll use this thread to discuss background, the author, context, etc.

Sources of Inspiration (first two links can be read online free)
- “The Mermaid and the Drunks” by Pablo Neruda (poem)
- The Handsomest Drowned Man in the World by Gabriel Garcia Marquez (short story)
- Islands in the Stream by Ernest Hemingway (catch scene partially inspired by this book)

Cultures/Phrases/Context
- Taíno People
- Aycayia Legends: Azurina, Mermaid Wiki, World of Darkness
- Mermaid Folklore/Myth
- Depictions of Mermaids
- Guabancex

Reviews
- Guardian Review
- Irish Times Review
- Socialist Workers Party Review
- Reviews Listed on Publisher's Book Page (scroll to bottom)

Interviews
- Minor Literatures Interview
- New Statesman Interview
- Monique Roffey in Conversation (video)
- Books that Made Me

Map of Lesser Antilles

[Beverly]

Thanks for this wonderful information.
I will be starting to read this book this evening.

[Jenna]

This is awesome Marc, thank you! I am still waiting for my copy to arrive - was not easy to find but should be here in the next few days!

[Hugh]

I read the book last year when it was shortlisted for the Goldsmith's Prize. I remember it quite well so will try to contribute whether or not I fit a reread in.

[Marc]

Glad to have you all on board!

[Sarah]

Thank you for the interesting and useful information. Received my copy yesterday, mesmerizing read so far.

[Marc]

Just came across:
Books that Made Me--Monique Roffey
(Apparently, Golding's The Inheritors helped her approach the mermaid's attempts at speech. And this must be the third time this year I've heard mention of Bear by Marian Engels after never having heard of it before.)