Author Nana Ekvtimishvili and translator Elizabeth Heighway on what it’s like to see The Pear Field longlisted for the International Booker Prize 2021, and more
The Pear Field
Written by Nana Ekvtimishvili
Translated by Elizabeth Heighway
- Original language:
- Georgian
- Longlisted
- The International Booker Prize 2021
- Published by Peirene Press
Buy the book
Nana Ekvtimishvili’s debut is a moving story of oppression and escape, which takes a sideways swipe at society’s neglect of the vulnerable
On the outskirts of Tbilisi is the Residential School for Intellectually Disabled Children - or, as the locals call it - the School for Idiots. Abandoned by their parents, the pupils here receive lessons in violence and neglect. At 18, Lela is old enough to leave, but stays to protect Irakli, a young boy at the school. When a couple from the USA decide they want to adopt a child, Lela is determined to do everything she can to help Irakli make the most of this chance.
Nana Ekvtimishvili
Nana Ekvtimishvili, born in Tbilisi, Georgia, is a writer and film director. Published in 2015, The Pear Field is her first novel
More about Nana Ekvtimishvili 
Elizabeth Heighway
Elizabeth Heighway has worked as a translator from Georgian and French since 2010
More about Elizabeth Heighway Features
- Book recommendations