Disappearing Mothers

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Nestled in an aperture of a cloudy mountain range lives an isolated community whose mothers are regularly struck by “the affliction,” which causes them to vanish. Elsewhere, by Alexis Schaitkin, is told in five lengthy chapters by Vera, who is 16 at the opening and a middle aged at the end. Through her eyes and experience, we see how these women’s lives are shaped by uncertainty and speculation. When a mother vanishes into the clouds during the night, the next day everyone gathers, and speculates on the reason she was taken. What was lacking in her mothering? What was too much, or not enough. The others always come up with a reason, perhaps to assuage their own fears and kindle the hope that if they love just the right way, they will be spared.

Vera, who’s own mother was taken, grows, marries and has a daughter of her own. She remembers a stranger who once visited their village, a woman who made the others both self-conscious and defensive of their way of life. A woman who gave her a photograph of Elsewhere, and told her that she too could live outside of this place. Elsewhere. Her love for her daughter Iris, is complete and all-encompassing, and yet it can not save her. Feeling like she’s on the verge of becoming afflicted, she decides to leave the confines of her community, not knowing if it will save or destroy her.

The writing in this work of speculative fiction is artful and immersive. Schaitkin's setting is rich and sensory, her observations deft and beautiful. The community, cut off from all except a man who delivers their supplies and the occasional visitor, possesses many odd practices, some of which verge on disturbing in their intensity. Yet the beautiful language pulls the reader back in.

The story centers on the complex bond between mother and child, and the various gradations this relationship evokes. Other minor themes explored include how women, and girls, relate to one another, and the value that society places on mothers.

I listened to the audiobook version produced by Macmillan Audio and narrated by the brilliant Ell Potter, and her soft, precise words lead the listener into the story and complements the suspenseful, otherworldly tone of the book. I whole-heartedly recommend the audio format for this novel.