Rent spel 1989, translated from the Swedish by Thomas Teal, introduced by Ali Smith. Sort Of Books 2007. 127 pages.

Jonna and Mari are artists living in different stairs in the same tenement house. They also share a cottage on a small sea island. Rejoice, quarrel, share fears and anxieties - they live a joyful life in every way. These lifelong partners and friends are very unlike each other, but maybe that’s why they can play a fair game. All it takes is patience and, of course, a lot of love.
Tove Jansson's text exudes a positive attitude and brightness, she makes everyday life sound like an adventure. She also has the ability to portray her characters in a warm humorous way, and the novel is full of delicious and funny scenes, like in the chapter "Fog" where Jonna and Mari sit in a boat at sea, waiting for the thick fog to dissipate, and spend time running down each other’s mothers and their weird habits.

I have read a copy in the past (in Finnish), but read it once more. In this edition, the interesting introduction by Ali Smith was sheer music to the ears of a compatriot and fan of Tove Jansson.

-ruzena

12.4.2021: The brave women are traveling the wide world again!

The brave women have landed in Australia!

Thank you very much for this fantastic RABCK ruzena, along with a companion book and other goodies. Must have been fun travelling with the Moomins . . .

I’m not a compatriot but am definitely a fan, so will look forward to reading this.
Thanks again.

Ali Smith says it all in her lovely introduction. This is an understated yet penetrating and affectionate window onto a long term relationship between two women artists. Everyday events are brought alive by the tight writing and perceptive observations. Coupledom is not always glamorous or romantic but the underlying commitment, respect and love shines through.

Now reserved as a wish list tag, but waiting while I read its travelling companion.

Wishlist tag to amberC. Enjoy!

Thanks for the tag.

A marvellous, gentle read about everyday life.

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