Nana Ekvtimishvili and Elizabeth Heighway on The Pear Field
Author Nana Ekvtimishvili and translator Elizabeth Heighway on what it’s like to see The Pear Field longlisted for the 2021 International Booker Prize
Nana Ekvtimishvili’s debut is a moving story of oppression and escape, which takes a sideways swipe at society’s neglect of the vulnerable. Translated by Elizabeth Heighway.
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
About the Author
Nana Ekvtimishvili, born in Tbilisi, Georgia, is a writer and film director. Published in 2015, The Pear Field is her first novel.
Elizabeth Heighway
About the Translator
Elizabeth Heighway has worked as a translator from Georgian and French since 2010.