Podcast Summary: "Ep 451: Digging into Nikki May's Delicious Mansfield Park Reimagining"

Podcast Information:

• Title: What Should I Read Next?
• Host: Anne Bogel
• Guest: Nikki May
• Episode Title: Digging into Nikki May's delicious Mansfield Park reimagining
• Release Date: October 22, 2024

Introduction

In Episode 451 of "What Should I Read Next?", host Anne Bogel welcomes bestselling author Nikki May to discuss her latest novel, "Motherless Land". This book is an innovative reimagining of Jane Austen's classic "Mansfield Park", infused with modern themes such as race and cultural identity. The conversation delves into Nikki's inspirations, character development, and the personal experiences that shaped her storytelling.

Author Background and Inspirations

Anne Bogel opens the discussion by highlighting Nikki May's previous work, particularly her 2022 bestseller, "Wahala", a story centered around a complex female circle of friends. Nikki emphasizes her deep admiration for Jane Austen, stating:

"I absolutely love Jane Austen. I think Jane is going to be timeless forever because she writes about human nature and she understands human nature and that doesn't actually change."
(09:04)

Nikki's decision to reimagine "Mansfield Park" stems from her appreciation of Austen's exploration of social constraints and human behavior. She mentions how Austen's portrayal of a young woman thrust into an alien environment continuously proving herself resonated with her own storytelling goals.

Themes: Decolonization and Race

One of the standout aspects of "Motherless Land" is its decolonial approach, addressing themes absent in the original Austen novel. Nikki explains:

"In Mansfield Park, all the Bertram's wealth was built from the slave trade, but slaves don't turn up on the page... I wanted to decolonialize it."
(12:37)

By integrating race and cultural identity, Nikki not only modernizes the narrative but also provides a fresh lens through which readers can explore issues of privilege and prejudice.

Character Development: Funke and Liv

The novel introduces Funke, a nine-year-old protagonist grappling with loss and identity, and Liv, her cousin who serves as her anchor in a new environment. Nikki elaborates on their complex relationship:

"Liv is Edmund. So Liv is doing that job... it's a platonic love story rather than a romantic one."
(29:00)

Funke's struggles with belonging—caught between two cultures—mirror Nikki's own experiences, enriching the narrative with authenticity and emotional depth.

Belonging and Identity

A central theme in the book is belonging and not belonging, reflecting Nikki's personal journey between Nigeria and England. She shares:

"Belonging is not about how you feel, it's about how other people see you."
(20:20)

Funke's experiences of being perceived differently in England and Nigeria highlight the universal struggle of finding one's place amidst cultural expectations and stereotypes.

Writing Process and Personal Experiences

Nikki candidly discusses how her personal history informs her writing:

"I poured a lot of myself into this book and then added a lot of made-up stuff."
(20:10)

From her upbringing in Lagos to moving to London, Nikki channels her life experiences into Funke's character, providing a nuanced portrayal of cross-cultural identity and familial relationships.

Literary Influences and Favorites

When asked about her favorite books, Nikki cites authors like Ann Patchett and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, praising their ability to intricately portray family dynamics and societal issues without being preachy. She recommends:

• "Commonwealth" by Ann Patchett
• "We Were Liars" by E. Lockhart
• "Half a Yellow Sun" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

These selections reflect her appreciation for narratives that balance entertainment with thoughtful commentary on human relationships and societal structures.

Humor and Cultural Nuances

Nikki incorporates humor to address cultural misunderstandings, such as Funke's bewilderment with British food and social norms. She shares:

"Funke's introduction to sherbet dip dabs and all the other treats that British nine-year-olds may appreciate is her cousin Liv, who becomes her person, her anchor in the new world."
(25:44)

These lighthearted moments provide levity while underscoring the challenges of cultural adaptation.

Conclusion and Author's Hopes

As the conversation wraps up, Nikki expresses her desire for readers to enjoy the book purely as an entertaining escape, while subtly engaging with its deeper themes:

"Every time I write, all I want to do is entertain... If it makes people think a little bit more, if it makes people reconsider, then that's a complete bonus."
(51:11)

She hopes "Motherless Land" will offer a fresh and relatable take on classic themes, encouraging readers to reflect on issues of race, belonging, and familial bonds without feeling lectured.

Final Thoughts

Anne Bogel concludes the episode by expressing excitement for listeners to explore Nikki May's "Motherless Land". She encourages readers to visit the podcast's website for more information and to follow their social media channels for updates.

"Follow along with our show on Instagram where you'll find our show there at What Should I Read Next? I'm there too at Anne Bogle and with an E B as in books O G E L."
(53:32)

"Motherless Land" is available in the UK and will be released in the US on October 29th, 2024. Fans of Jane Austen's work and those interested in contemporary takes on classic literature will find Nikki May's novel a compelling addition to their reading lists.

Notable Quotes

• Nikki May on Jane Austen's Timelessness:
  "I think Jane is going to be timeless forever because she writes about human nature and she understands human nature and that doesn't actually change."
  (09:04)

• On Decolonial Storytelling:
  "In Mansfield Park, all the Bertram's wealth was built from the slave trade, but slaves don't turn up on the page... I wanted to decolonialize it."
  (12:37)

• On Belonging:
  "Belonging is not about how you feel, it's about how other people see you."
  (20:20)

• On Entertaining Through Writing:
  "Every time I write, all I want to do is entertain... If it makes people think a little bit more, if it makes people reconsider, then that's a complete bonus."
  (51:11)

Where to Find More

To learn more about Nikki May's "Motherless Land", explore additional details and interview highlights on WhatShouldIReadNextPodcast.com. Readers can also follow the podcast on Instagram and subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates and book recommendations.

Happy Reading!