Solvej Balle's On the Calculation of Volume (Book II) continues the experimental narrative begun in Book I, further exploring the traumatic event through obsessive repetition and shifting perspectives. Balle deepens her investigation into how memory works, how stories change with each telling, and whether we can ever access objective truth about our own experiences. The novel becomes a profound meditation on the nature of remembering and the stories we tell ourselves to survive.

WHY WE PICKED IT: Because Balle refuses to let us look away or move on, insisting we stay with the discomfort of not knowing. Book II reminds us that understanding trauma isn't about reaching conclusions but about learning to live with uncertainty and contradiction.

DETAILS: • Author: Solvej Balle • Publisher: New Directions Publishing Corporation • Format: Paperback • Publication Date: November 26, 2024 • ISBN: 9780811237277 • Ships direct from distributor in 3–7 business days