October 11, 2021
Heath’s debut unfolds against the vividly drawn backdrop of 1904 Norway, tracing the lives of three teens intent on finding their own way. Born with Waardenburg syndrome, asexual Asta Hedstrom, 18, has been taught that she should be grateful for her betrothal to Nils, a local man willing to overlook her “flaws.” Though she wants only to continue acting in the village theater, she resigns herself to her fate, until Nils attacks her best friend, Gunnar, in a fit of jealousy. The moment of violence forces Asta to acknowledge the truth: she cannot marry Nils. Instead, she moves with Gunnar, who has depression as well as a spinal injury and a partial arm amputation, and his half-French boyfriend, Erlend, whose anxiety is causing ulcers, to an isolated cabin. But to maintain their freedom, the trio must first win the village’s annual horse race—and its 2,000-kroner prize. In a book that frequently focuses on relationships over narrative tension, smooth writing brings the historical background to life while, through Asta and Gunnar’s dual narration, delicately exploring themes of disability, independence, found family, and various forms of love. Elegant, folk-style illustrations by Perrin top each chapter; “Historical and Medical Notes” contextualize “the limitations of the language of the time” vis-à-vis representation. Ages 14–up. Agent: Stephen Chudney, the Chudney Agency.