TEHRAN- “The Shell Seekers” by British novelist Rosamunde Pilcher has recently been published in Persian.

Translated by Zohreh Mehrnia, the book has been published by Naqsh-e Jahan in Tehran. 

Originally published in 1987, the book tells the story of Penelope Keeling, a woman in her sixties, as she reflects on her life and tries to reconcile with her past. The novel follows a non-linear narrative, moving between Penelope's present day and her memories.

Penelope is the daughter of an acclaimed artist, Lawrence Stern, but has resented living in his shadow for most of her life. She has three adult children, who all have complicated relationships with her. When Penelope suffers a heart attack, her family gathers around her, and that's when she starts contemplating her own mortality and the choices she has made.

As Penelope reminisces about her youth, the narrative takes the reader back to World War II and her time as a young woman. Her memories are filled with love, loss, and the pursuit of happiness. Penelope recalls her first love, Richard, who was killed in the war, and her subsequent marriage to a loving but unsuitable man, Ambrose. Despite having children with Ambrose, Penelope realizes that her true passion lies in art, just like her father. This realization leads to a greater appreciation for her father's work, "The Shell Seekers", a painting that holds both sentimental and financial value.

As Penelope recuperates, her selfish and materialistic children become more interested in their potential inheritance, specifically the painting. Each of her children represents a different aspect of modern society: Penelope's daughter Olivia is an ambitious businesswoman, her daughter Nancy is a traditionalist focused on maintaining appearances, and her son Noel struggles with his own identity. Throughout the novel, Penelope grapples with her complicated relationship with her children and the priorities of their lives.

In the end, Penelope finds solace and peace by making decisions that prioritize her happiness rather than satisfying her family's expectations. She chooses to follow her heart, making amends with her past, and embracing the possibility of new love even in her twilight years.

"The Shell Seekers" is a novel about love, family, and the complexities of life. It explores themes of identity, self-discovery, and the importance of personal fulfillment. Through Penelope's journey, readers are reminded to search for the true treasures in life and to appreciate the value of love and art.

SAB/