Marcia Hutchinson’s novel, nominated for the Women’s Prize, is narrated through the eyes of Mercy Hanson, a girl born in Bradford in 1962. Mercy, the lively fifth child in her family, adores her mother but lives in fear of her father. The story chronicles her journey from infancy to her early school years, where she first encounters the joy of reading and finds an escape in books.
During her initial week at school, an unfortunate incident occurs when a teacher accidentally strikes Mercy in the forehead and subsequently denies it. This incident prompts her devout mother to confront the teacher, threatening severe consequences should she harm her daughter again. However, Mercy’s mother struggles to shield either herself or her children from her volatile husband, described as “very tall, a proper giant,” who smokes Capstan Full Strength cigarettes. In moments of anger, he strikes Mercy in her crib and physically abuses her mother.
The story is brought to life by Hutchinson, who skillfully balances the humorous and tragic aspects of Mercy’s experiences. She adeptly switches between the Yorkshire dialect of her young protagonist and her mother’s Jamaican Patois. The novel, tenderly crafted with touches of sweetness and humor, derives its title from the staircase where Mercy often sits, clutching her beloved toy, Dolly, as she observes the activities of her household. This child’s perspective not only illustrates the concerns that shape childhood but also highlights the impact of the cruelty inflicted by adults.
Available through Recorded Books, the audiobook has a runtime of 9 hours and 3 minutes.
In another notable release, “Famesick” by Lena Dunham, published by 4th Estate, offers a memoir narrated by the creator of the acclaimed TV series “Girls.” In this 11-hour and 46-minute audiobook, Dunham reflects on her career, the controversies she has faced, her relationships, and her struggles with addictions, as well as various health issues including OCD, early menopause, and endometriosis.
Additionally, “Son of Nobody” by Yann Martel, released by Canongate and narrated by Aaron Willis and Robin Wilcock, tells the story of a Canadian classicist who discovers a lost epic poem concerning the Trojan War, recounted from the viewpoint of an ordinary soldier. This audiobook has a total length of 7 hours and 32 minutes.
