History as Inspiration - two new novels from Slovenia

Translator Olivia Hellewell talks to Dušan Šarotar and Dino Bauk: two Slovenian authors writing about two different periods in the history of their country: a story of survival in the northern town of Morska Sobota during WWII, and a tale of loss and confusion during the more recent conflict of the 1990s. Billiards at the Hotel Dobray is Dušan Šarotar's second book in English, following on from his highly praised 2016 novel, Panorama. Once again, we are offered a semi-autobiographical story which blurs the distinction between fact and fiction. The End. And Again offers a beguiling, imaginative reworking of the history of the independence of Slovenia and the break-up of Yugoslavia through the eyes of its four main characters - like the line-up of a pop group – Peter, Goran, Denis and Mary

Om Podcasten

Istros Conversations has been set up by Istros Books to talk about the art of literature, with particular attention to literature in translation, and the process through which words are remade and thoughts conveyed across languages and cultures. Listen to interviews and discussions with authors, translators, and those working in the world of translation. Istros Books is an independent publisher which specializes in literature in translation from the Balkans and South-East Europe. Istros is supported using public funding by Arts Council England.