Book Discussion: "Whale Fall" by Elizabeth O'Connor

This month, the Park Slope Library's adult book discussion group is reading "Whale Fall" by Elizabeth O'Connor.

“O’Connor’s debut novel is set in 1938 on a remote island off the coast of Wales. 

“O’Connor is careful not to romanticize the island, depicting the harsh living conditions in graphic prose. Alongside the news of increased political tension in Europe, a beached whale captivates the small, tightknit community, which is becoming increasingly conscious of its isolation. That so many families have abandoned the island for themainland, leaving “more empty houses on the island than inhabited ones,” increases that sense of dislocation.  

“O’Connor prompts us to consider what it is to experience ourselves—and our cultures—through strangers’ eyes. 

“A beautiful meditation on the profound effects of seeing and being seen.” 

Retrieved 1/30/2025 https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/elizabeth-oconnor/whale-fall-oconnor/ 

No registration required. 

If you are looking for a good book or a book discussion set for your own book group, click this link  for some great recommendations.

For more information about Park Slope Library programs or events, visit the Park Slope Library branch page or our Facebook page.