Karen Thompson Walker

Karen Thompson Walker, a Portland novelist acclaimed for her explorations of memory and identity, discusses her latest work, 'The Strange Case of Jane O.' She delves into the protagonist's disorienting experiences with memory and identity, highlighting the emotional turmoil it brings. The conversation also touches on the influence of Oliver Sacks, gender biases in narrative acknowledgment, and the delicate art of building tension in storytelling. Walker emphasizes the power of empathy in patient-doctor relationships, underscoring the intersection of science and literature.

Karen Thompson Walker, an acclaimed author and creative writing professor, dives into the themes of her novel 'The Strange Case of Jane O,' exploring the complexities of identity, trauma, and unreliable narration. She emphasizes the importance of planting curiosity seeds in stories to engage readers. Joining her, Emilie Sommer from East City Bookshop tackles the intricacies of comparative titles, offering insights into crafting emotional depth in literature. This lively discussion brings forth the art of storytelling and the challenges of character development.