Jessica Howland Kany’s A Runner’s Guide to Rakiura is more than just a running companion; it’s an immersive journey into the heart of Stewart Island, New Zealand. This novel, published by Quentin Wilson Publishing in 2022, offers a unique and compelling reading experience that transcends traditional narrative structures.
Kany, a long-time resident of Rakiura (Stewart Island) and contributor to publications like Running Times and New Zealand Geographic, brings her intimate knowledge of the island to life in this captivating work. Her personal experiences as an editor, fishermans wife, mother, and runner in the region serve as inspiration.
The book has garnered attention, including praise from Lynn Freeman on RNZ as one of her favorite books of 2022, despite being overlooked for major awards. A Runner’s Guide to Rakiura truly stands out as a remarkable piece of literature that warrants deeper exploration.
The Allure of Rakiura: Setting the Stage
One of the most compelling aspects of the novel is its vivid depiction of Rakiura itself. The author’s deep connection to the island is evident in her evocative descriptions of the landscape, the atmosphere, and the unique character of the place. Having visited Rakiura, the reviewer finds Kany’s portrayal strikingly authentic. The novel transports you to the island, allowing you to almost smell the salt air, taste the local cuisine, and feel the pulse of the community.
Coastal landscape of Stewart Island, New Zealand, highlighting its natural beauty
Unconventional Structure: A Compendium of Experiences
Forget conventional storytelling; A Runner’s Guide to Rakiura embraces a more experimental approach. The novel is structured as a collection of writings, encompassing everything from practical advice for runners to poetry, historical anecdotes, and even a treasure map. This unconventional structure mirrors the multifaceted nature of Rakiura itself, revealing its layers of history, culture, and natural beauty. The title may suggest a simple guide, but the contents go far beyond, offering a guide to life itself.
An Outsider’s Perspective: Discovering the Familiar in the Strange
The protagonist, much like the author, is an outsider who has chosen to make Rakiura home. This perspective allows for a fresh and insightful exploration of the island’s culture and customs. The protagonist’s fascination with the local dialect, often incomprehensible to newcomers, highlights the importance of language as a gateway to understanding a new place. By immersing herself in the vernacular, she unlocks a deeper connection to Rakiura and its people.
The Treasure Hunt: A Metaphor for Self-Discovery
The treasure hunt woven throughout the narrative provides a compelling narrative thread that keeps the reader engaged. However, the true treasure is not simply a buried box of riches. Instead, it represents the protagonist’s journey of self-discovery and her quest to find her place within the Rakiura community. The search for hidden clues becomes a metaphor for the deeper search for meaning and belonging.
More Than Just a Guide: A Transformative Journey
A Runner’s Guide to Rakiura is far more than just a travelogue or a running manual. It’s a profound exploration of place, identity, and the human connection. Through its unique structure, vivid descriptions, and compelling characters, the novel invites readers to embark on a transformative journey to Rakiura and within themselves. It offers an escape from the everyday and a reminder of the power of place to shape our lives.
This book is a must-read for anyone interested in New Zealand literature, running, or simply seeking a captivating and thought-provoking reading experience. It’s a testament to the power of storytelling to transport us to new worlds and deepen our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
