An epic novel spanning a period of roughly 50 years and told across 3 Generations. The book centers around Dr. Chase Calloway and his relationship with Ivy, a deformed woman confined to solitude through broken speech. The first entry in a planned 3 part trilogy, “Nutshell” explores Calloway’s morality through family lineage steeped in both religion and science as he makes his way through medical school.
Showcasing profound understanding of how identity is structured not just through personal experience but by the actions of others, “Nutshell” casts a wide narrative to ensnare an eclectic array of personalities. At first seeming rather disjointed (it takes several chapters for the story to focus on a singular narrative), the work begins to weave its subjects together in unexpected ways. Whether it be a university rival fuming from the sidelines at Chase’s academic prowess, or the woman who taught him piano as a youth, all characters play a notable part in the development of young Calloway. Ultimately, the studious reader will become spellbound by Albedo’s attention to detail and ability to weave together 50 years of life experiences into a singular narrative.
For those who have interest in early ‘junk’ science, particularly in the field of psychology, there is great depth of exploration into the misconceptions and problems of the field in its infancy. Misdiagnosis, practices now considered immoral, and crowding institutes for funding all exist as a dark smudge on our past - countless mistreated and discarded to die lonely deaths. The chapters that focus on life in the asylum, and it’s lower regions known as “the dungeon”, are harrowing reflections on these past failures, but instances that show Albedo’s attention to historical accuracy and understanding of systematic ignorance during the era. Thankfully, Albedo is able to converse through medical jargon in a way that is accessible to a general audience while sprinkling in details that will appease those with previous knowledge on such subjects.
Arguably, the greatest accomplishment of “Nutshell” rests in its humanization of Ivy Petticoat, a spritely woman whose sharp mind is trapped in a broken body. As Chase works with Ivy he becomes aware of misplacement within the system and pushes for her to have some semblance of freedom - even in the simple act of fixing her hands so she can play the piano. Where many would view an abomination, the doctor in training sees the beauty of the person trapped in a mangled vessel. Consequently, the chapters where the two interact offer an utterly endearing /insightful look into the empathetic nature of Chase and the inner beauty of Ivy.
Admittedly, I found myself struggling with “Nutshell” through a majority of my reading, as certain chapters seemed to come out of nowhere and focus on people that seemed trivial. However, the brilliance within is the grander picture that Albedo is able to slowly piece together the various characters to imbue a renewed interest in each. In addition, the authors’ ability to navigate complex themes and ideologies into a single character study is quite remarkable. Ultimately, “Nutshell” rewards the patient reader with an intricate character study that sets the groundwork for an impressive trilogy.
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CDN$14.97
Sold by: Amazon.com.ca, Inc.
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