Born on this day November 6, 1943, Berlie Doherty’s novels are renowned for their unique blend of the mundane and the magical, a literary genre often referred to as magical realism. The British author has an uncanny ability to create a world where the ordinary coexists seamlessly with the extraordinary. Doherty’s narratives infuse everyday experiences with elements of fantasy, blurring the lines between reality and imagination, thus inviting her readers into a realm of narrative possibility that transcends the conventions of traditional storytelling.
Doherty’s application of magical realism is especially potent in her children’s literature. She frequently employs this narrative device to explore complex themes such as loss, identity, and growth in an accessible and empathetic manner. For instance, her award-winning novel Street Child incorporates elements of this genre to depict the harsh realities of poverty during Victorian times. The interplay between the real and the fantastical adds an extra layer of depth to Doherty’s storytelling, making her novels not just entertaining but also profound and thought-provoking.
Furthermore, Berlie Doherty’s deft use of magical realism adds a universal appeal to her novels. By juxtaposing the ordinary with the extraordinary, she challenges readers to question their perception of reality and encourages them to explore their imaginations. Despite the fantastical elements, her stories remain grounded in human experiences and emotions, making them relatable to readers across different age groups.
Berlie Doherty’s novels serve as remarkable examples of magical realism. Through her masterful interweaving of reality with elements of fantasy, she crafts narratives that are not only engaging but also deeply resonant. This distinctive narrative style sets Doherty apart in the literary world and contributes significantly to her enduring popularity as a writer.
The Sky Is Black Tonight
The sky is black tonight;
Coal-black, crow-black.
But in that black
Is the white-bright light
Of a star.
That star has a gift tonight:
A birth-gift, for-all-the-earth-gift.
For in that star
Is a fly-by-night:
Is a bird!
That bird has a song tonight:
A love-song, high above-song.
And in that song
Is the silver tongue
Of a bell.
That bell has a wish tonight;
A bell-wish, a well-wish.
And the wish
In the bell
In the song
In the bird
In the star
In the black
In the sky
Is Peace.
Is Peace.
Is Peace.
-Berlie Doherty
Curated by Jennifer
