POD by Laline Paull

Paperback. NEW. Laline Paull's latest novel, shortlisted for the Women's Prize for Fiction in 2023, delves into a world that is both familiar and foreign. In this immersive and transformative story, Paull addresses the pressing issue of restoring the voice and agency to creatures beyond the realm of humans, highlighting the increasing cruelty and ignorance of our species. The protagonist, Ea, has always felt like an outsider. Afflicted with a unique kind of deafness, she struggles to participate in the spinning rituals that bring her pod of spinner dolphins together. The tragic events that befall her family leave Ea burdened with guilt, prompting her to make a life-altering decision: to leave the familiarity of her pod behind. As Ea embarks on her solitary journey into the vastness of the ocean, she quickly encounters various dangers lurking beneath the surface. From predators stalking their prey to perplexing objects floating in the water, Ea realizes that she must navigate through a treacherous landscape in order to survive. Just when she begins to adapt to her solitary existence, Ea unexpectedly crosses paths with a group of arrogant bottlenose dolphins. This encounter profoundly alters the trajectory of her life and poses new challenges that she must face head-on. Through the terrifying and propulsive narrative, Paull explores the profound meaning of family, belonging, and sacrifice within a world that is no longer the safe haven it once was. Paull's novel prompts readers to reflect on the state of our own world, as the deteriorating sanctity of the ocean mirrors the many injustices and perils faced by humanity. This thought-provoking work acts as a mirror, revealing the cruelty, ignorance, and disregard for the environment that exists within our own societal structures. Throughout the novel, Paull masterfully weaves together a tapestry of intricate mythologies, emphasizing the diverse and extraordinary creatures that inhabit this oceanic realm. By doing so, she emphasizes the interconnectedness of all living beings and raises poignant questions about our role as humans in this delicate ecosystem. The story delves deep into the complexities of identity and the search for belonging. Ea's journey serves as a metaphor for the struggle faced by many individuals who feel like outsiders in their own communities. Her determination and resilience in the face of adversity highlight the strength that can be found within oneself, even in the darkest of times. Ultimately, Paull's novel compels readers to reevaluate their relationship with the natural world and the creatures that inhabit it. By illuminating the consequences of human ignorance and cruelty, she urges us to acknowledge our responsibility as caretakers of the planet. The story serves as a powerful reminder that we are not the sole inhabitants of this Earth and that our actions have far-reaching effects on the lives of other beings. In this thought-provoking and evocative novel, Laline Paull delivers a timely warning about the state of our environment and the urgent need for change. As the ocean world within the story reflects the plight of our own world, readers are left with a profound sense of responsibility and a renewed determination to preserve and protect the delicate balance of our shared home.