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(In a Wrong Story) Book not yet available in English
Summary:
The novel offers a welcome read for both adolescents and teachers. It follows Manca, a first-year gymnasium student who falls for her literature teacher, who ultimately seduces her. A serial philanderer, he has had multiple affairs over the years. He also takes compromising photos of her on his phone, which later fall into the hands of older students who circulate them (though in the novel, the act of sharing the photos is condemned even more strongly than taking them in the first place). Manca’s first time isn’t quite the bliss she had imagined — the heavens didn’t open to a chorus of angels — but it’s less a tragedy than a lesson, especially in light of her later worries about an unwanted pregnancy. Woven through the narrative are lines from poetry and music, making it more engaging and even inspiring readers to read (love) poetry. This adds another layer to the novel, with more to uncover as the story unfolds. (mag. Tilka Jamnik)
Edited by: Mestna knjižnica Ljubljana
Comment:
Cvetka Sokolov’s crossover novel In the Wrong Story explores the theme of forbidden love, following a young protagonist who falls for her married teacher. This erotically tinged love story also engages with the challenges of adolescence and sexual awakening. The author approached the subject thoughtfully, conducting thorough research and drawing on expert insight. Despite its serious themes, the text never feels dull; the narrative comes alive with quotations from poetry and fragments of song lyrics. The inclusion of external texts further develops the protagonist’s character and makes the story even more compelling. (mag. Tilka Jamnik)