Prcic, Ismet

This recommended book blends autofiction and a metanarrative. Give to Prcic’s fans and to readers looking for a structure that’s highly distinctive.

Part coming-of-age tale and part war story, this novel contrasts sweetly innocent reminiscences of growing up in Tuzla with harrowing depictions of the costs of conflict, ultimately focusing on the psychological damage done to those in war's path. A memorable if disconcerting debut. [See Prepub Alert, 4/4/11.]—Lawrence Rungren, Merrimack Valley Lib. Consortium, North Andover, MA