Cascade: A Novel

by Barbara Lalla

Cascade is an accomplished work of fiction that examines the subject of growing old with sensitive honesty, through the stories of three main characters. It recounts the gathering trauma of psychological dismemberment and poignant efforts to connect against a background of social turmoil. The novel engages with the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease in a Caribbean context, where displacement, memory, identity loss and resistance remain crucial and enduring preoccupations.

299 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 25, 2012

Reviews

[Divia · Rating 3 out of 5]

This novel is beautifully written. I enjoyed the shifting perspectives which really captured everyone's stories and the effects of Alzheimer's on Ellie and everyone around her. The moments that really stand out are Ellie's attempts to recall memories and the difficulty there. The language used there is beautifully haunting.

I think it is great that a Caribbean novel is highlighting Alzheimer's. Ellie is also an enjoyable character. She is a fiery woman who I enjoyed reading about. I really adored her character and I felt for her and her predicament. It hurts when she calls for Dan and he cannot answer. I also feel for Rachel. I would have liked more perspectives from her. I think that I related to her character more than anybody else.