Literary Gems: A Journey Through Today's Most Impactful Novels

This article reviews a selection of influential novels that have captivated literary experts. From 'The Safekeep' by Yael van der Wouden, which explores the expropriation of Jewish property during World War II, to Samantha Harvey's 'Orbital', which critiques the human cost of space exploration, the novels tackle diverse themes, including historical traumas, societal constructs, and personal relationships.

A new wave of significant literary works has captured the attention of critics at 'The Conversation'. Among them is Yael van der Wouden's 'The Safekeep', a haunting narrative about the expropriation and theft of Jewish property during World War II in the Netherlands. This debut novel explores the lives of three siblings grappling with their mother's legacy amidst the shadow of historical trauma.

Another standout is Samantha Harvey's 'Orbital', which examines the existential cost of space travel amid the looming threat of climate change. The Booker-winning novel juxtaposes the mundane life of cosmonauts on the International Space Station with the impending environmental disaster on Earth, urging a reevaluation of human priorities.

Equally captivating is Ali Smith's 'Gliff'. Rooted in a dystopian Britain, the novel reflects contemporary anxieties around climate change, refugees, and rising authoritarianism, drawing readers into a narrative that challenges conventional literary boundaries.

(With inputs from agencies.)