David Kaiser

Milkman by Anna Burns is an extraordinary novel that masterfully captures the tension, fear, and complexities of life during the Troubles in Northern Ireland. Written with a distinctive, stream-of-consciousness style, the narrative is both immersive and thought-provoking. The unnamed protagonist, "Middle Sister," navigates a world of gossip, suspicion, and intimidation with remarkable resilience, and her internal monologue is often darkly humorous. Burns' exploration of power dynamics, social control, and the personal impact of political conflict is brilliantly nuanced. It’s a challenging but rewarding read, filled with deep insight and unforgettable characters.