Set on Colombia’s rugged Pacific coast, Pilar Quintana’s The Bitch (translated from Spanish by Lisa Dillman) explores the brutal forces of nature that shape every day lives. In a shack overlooking the sea, a childless woman is desperate to adopt a puppy upon which she can shower her affection. With storms threatening (both literal and metaphorical storms) , the very nature of motherhood is put to the test in this rough and tumble world where violence is never absent. In addition to the prestigious Colombian Biblioteca de Narrativa Prize and chosen as a finalist for the 2020 National Book Award for Translated Literature (as well as being selected for several Best Books of 2017 lists) the novel was chosen as one of the most valuable objects to preserve for future generations in a marble time capsule in Bogotá.

Pilar Quintana talks with poet and translator, Beatriz Hausner, about her novel, The Bitch, and the subversive act of writing about the dark side of nature.

About this event’s guests:
Pilar Quintana
Beatriz Hausner

Toronto Public Library is committed to accessibility. Please call or email us if you are Deaf or have a disability and would like to request accommodation to participate in this program. Please let us know as far in advance as possible and we will do our best to meet your request. At least three weeks’ notice is preferred. Phone 416-393-7099 or email accessibleservices@tpl.ca.

Pilar Quintana: The Bitch