The Choke - Sofie Laguna
A mesmerising, harrowing and ultimately uplifting novel from the 2015 Miles Franklin winner.
Abandoned by her mother as a toddler and only occasionally visited by her volatile father who keeps dangerous secrets, Justine is raised solely by her Pop, an old man tormented by visions of the Burma Railway. Justine finds sanctuary in Pop's chooks and The Choke, where the banks of the Murray River are so narrow they can almost touch—a place of staggering natural beauty that is both a source of peace and danger. Although Justine doesn't know it, her father is a menacing criminal and the world she is exposed to is one of great peril to her. She has to make sense of it on her own—and when she eventually does, she knows what she has to do.
A brilliant, haunting novel about a child navigating an often dark and uncaring world of male power, guns and violence, in which grown-ups can't be trusted and comfort can only be found in nature, The Choke is a compassionate and claustrophobic vision of a child in danger and a society in deep trouble. It once again showcases the Miles Franklin Award-winning author as a writer of rare empathy, originality and blazing talent.
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Set against the backdrop of the stunning Murray River, 'The Choke' weaves a rich tapestry of themes around childhood trauma, resilience, and the search for identity. Sofia Laguna, celebrated for her perceptive storytelling, draws readers into Justine's world—a landscape marked by natural beauty and underlying threats. This novel not only reflects the struggle against familial abandonment and criminality but also highlights the importance of connection and understanding in a child’s formative years. Laguna’s narrative showcases her unique ability to blend haunting imagery with moments of profound empathy, making readers reflect on societal issues through Justine's eyes. As readers navigate the complexities of Justine’s life, they are prompted to reconsider what safety and love truly mean in a world fraught with danger. 'The Choke' stands out as a must-read, not just for its compelling plot but for its insightful commentary on the dynamics of power, trust, and the inherent strength found within vulnerability.