With a very original premise, this story centres around a split character born on the same day in the late 70s to the same parents – but in one reality, Louis is a boy and in the other Louise is a girl. From there, despite the same family, friends, home and dreams of being a writer, their lives diverge. After having followed different paths for many years, they both return home to see their dying mother and face up to a shocking incident that changed lives.
This masterfully crafted book explores a number of weighty topics, from gender identity to forgiveness, and makes for a compelling read. Definitely one of this year’s must-reads.
Louis & Louise, by Julie Cohen, explores the notion of the same person being in two different realities - one as a male, one as a woman.
The summary says: "One Life. Lived Twice.
Louis and Louise are the same person born in two different lives. They are separated only by the sex announced by the doctor and a final 'e'.
They have the same best friends, the same red hair, the same dream of being a writer, the same excellent whistle. They both suffer one catastrophic night, with life-changing consequences.
Thirteen years later, they are both coming home." Louis & Louise is out in January 2019.
