Description
Crossings was Betty Lambert's only novel; published by Pulp Press in 1979, it was revolutionary for its frank and unsettling portrayal of Vicky, a female writer in Vancouver in the early 1960s, an educated and intelligent woman who struggles to come to terms with herself as she navigates an emotionally abusive relationship with Mik, a violent logger and ex-con. Their physical, often violent affair offers an honest and unflinching look at relationships and female suffering. The book caused a furor when it was first published, and in fact was banned from some feminist Canadian bookstores. At the same time, it was widely acclaimed by critics and writers, including Jane Rule, who wrote: "This portrait of an artist as a young woman should stand beside Alice Munro's Who Do You Think You Are and Margaret Laurence's The Diviners as a testimony of the courage and cost of being a woman and a writer. "
Out of print for more than twenty years, this new edition of Crossings will introduce this Canadian classic--and remarkable writer--to a new generation of readers.
Includes an introduction by novelist Claudia Casper (The Reconstruction and The Continuation of Love by Other Means).
Reviews
Lambert's dialogue is razor-sharp and rich in brilliant subtext, making a statement that's both loud and subtle. Crossings is smart, witty, and still relevant in the twenty-first century. It is truly a gem, so worthy of republication to honour Vancouver in its 125th year.
- Geist
-Geist
A hilarious, reprehensible, moving book, brilliantly written.
- Jane Rule
-Jane Rule
That rara avis, the novel that makes you say, now here's a real novelist . .. Crossings is a powerful novel of a woman discovering herself. And we discover a powerfully talented writer.
- Globe and Mail
-The Globe and Mail
I've read few novels with characters as particularized and whole, perceptions as amusing and alive. It takes the basic Canadian-fiction starter kit and assembles it with a lightning wit and energy that make the results wholly agreeable . .. Crossings is a superbly realized novel.
- Douglas Hill
-Douglas Hill