

Louise Erdrich Reads Karen Russell
4 snips Sep 1, 2024
Louise Erdrich, an award-winning novelist known for her powerful works like "The Round House" and "The Night Watchman," joins to read and discuss Karen Russell's "Haunting Olivia." They dive into the distinctive literary voices that capture readers' imaginations. The conversation uncovers themes of grief, loss, and the deep bond between siblings as they navigate the surreal experiences tied to their deceased sister. They also explore the emotional weight of memory, the haunting beauty of the ocean, and the unique storytelling techniques that define Russell's work.
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Affinity for Russell's Work
- Louise Erdrich appreciates Karen Russell's genius for language and emotional depth.
- Russell elevates ordinary relationships into surreal worlds.
Russell's Debut
- "Haunting Olivia" was Karen Russell's first published New Yorker story, appearing in a debut fiction issue in 2005.
- She was 23 and an MFA student at the time.
Hallmarks of Russell's Stories
- Strong relationships, surreal settings, and underlying compassion characterize Karen Russell's stories.
- She makes the bizarre feel ordinary, as seen in "Orange World" with a devil in the sewers.