Susan Stinson, "Martha Moody" (Small Beer Press, 2020)
May 28, 2023
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In this podcast, Susan Stinson discusses her award-winning novel 'Martha Moody,' a speculative western focusing on a love story between Amanda and Martha. The topics include self-publishing, themes of love and fatness in fiction, and the shift to online book events in 2020. The conversation highlights the challenges of publishing, the impact of storytelling on body image, and ends with a warm farewell and book recommendation.
Stinson's novels center on fat queer women, challenging societal norms of love and sensuality.
The significance of feminist presses in publishing and re-publishing 'Martha Moody' highlights alternative literary avenues.
Deep dives
Susan Stinson's Literary Career and Background
Susan Stinson, an accomplished author, shares insights into her literary journey, beginning with her 1993 chapbook of poems and lyric essays celebrating fat women. She discusses her novels, including 'Martha Moody,' published in 1995. Throughout her career, Stinson's books have focused on the lives of fat queer women and have been published by small presses.
Publishing Experiences of 'Martha Moody'
Stinson reflects on the publishing journey of 'Martha Moody,' sharing the personal and relational aspects of getting the book published in 1995 through Spinster's Inc. She highlights the significance of feminist presses and the international editions of the book. In 2020, a new edition by Small Beer Press was launched during the pandemic, altering the book release dynamic.
Exploring Fatness and Love in 'Martha Moody'
Stinson delves into the thematic portrayal of fat women falling in love in 'Martha Moody.' She elucidates on the exploration of fatness, sensuality, and creativity in the narrative. Through characters like Amanda and Martha, the novel challenges traditional perceptions of fatness and emphasizes the journey towards self-expression and acceptance.
Winner of the Benjamin Franklin Award in Fiction, Susan Stinson's Martha Moody (Small Beer Press, 2020) is a speculative western that follows Amanda, a woman with a vibrant, sensuous imagination, as she falls in love with Martha, a luxuriously fat shop owner. Funny, tender, and undeniably sexy, this novel delights readers as much as Amanda’s homemade butter delights her lover’s lips.
Kendall Dinniene is an English PhD candidate at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas.