Janet Frame
Janet Frame was a renowned New Zealand author who wrote novels, short stories, poetry, and an autobiography. Her literary career was marked by numerous awards and accolades, and her work often explored themes of identity, mental health, and the complexities of human experience. Frame's own life, including her time spent in psychiatric institutions and the subsequent misdiagnosis of schizophrenia, significantly influenced her writing. Her most famous works include 'An Angel at My Table' and 'Owls Do Cry'.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. Owls Do Cry
This novel is a poignant exploration of the Withers family living in a small New Zealand town, focusing on the life of Daphne Withers, who is sent to a mental institution after a breakdown. Through lyrical and experimental prose, the narrative delves into themes of mental illness, societal expectations, and the struggle for individuality. It juxtaposes the harsh realities of institutional life with the rich inner world of its characters, particularly Daphne, who finds solace in the natural world and poetry. The book is a powerful critique of the stigma surrounding mental health and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
The 1557th Greatest Book of All Time -
2. Faces In The Water
"Faces in the Water" is a chilling exploration of mental illness, based on the author's own experiences in psychiatric hospitals. The protagonist is a woman who is institutionalized after a suicide attempt and suffers through the dehumanizing treatment of the era, including electroshock therapy. The narrative is a surreal and fragmented reflection of her mental state, as she grapples with her sanity and the inhumane conditions of her confinement. The novel serves as a powerful critique of the mental health system and the societal attitudes towards mental illness in the mid-20th century.
The 2429th Greatest Book of All Time
