Sex and Stravinsky

In Sex and Stravinsky, a family's intricate dynamics unfold against the backdrop of past relationships and unfulfilled dreams, ultimately leading to unexpected connections.

In Sex and Stravinsky, the narrative unfolds in 1995, a time when the past looms large over the present. Caroline, a brilliant Australian woman, struggles to manage her life, particularly her relationship with her eccentric mother. Her husband, Josh, who wears Stravinsky glasses, and their twelve-year-old daughter, Zoe, find themselves caught in the web of family dynamics and unfulfilled dreams. Zoe's desire to take ballet lessons is thwarted until a serendipitous encounter during a school French exchange opens new doors for her.

On the other side of the world, in East Africa, Hattie, Josh's first love, has carved out a life of her own. She writes girls' ballet books while navigating the challenges posed by her own family, including a demanding husband and a difficult daughter. As the story progresses, the lives of these characters intertwine in unexpected ways, leading to a masquerade where identities and intentions are often obscured. The novel deftly shifts between themes of domesticity and broader global concerns, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected lives.

Sex and Stravinsky is celebrated for its beautifully structured narrative and the whimsical charm that echoes the magic of a Midsummer Night's Dream. With its delightful blend of comedy and drama, the novel invites readers to explore the complexities of love, ambition, and the bonds that tie us together, even across great distances.