Deep Wheel Orcadia

Deep Wheel Orcadia is a pioneering science-fiction verse novel written in the Orcadian dialect, the first full-length book in the Orkney language in over 50 years. Astrid, returning from art school on Mars, and Darling, seeking refuge from a life that never fit, cross paths on Deep Wheel Orcadia, a distant space station grappling with survival amidst rapid change. The novel explores themes of place, belonging, work, economy, generation, gender politics, love, and desire, all woven into a lyrical and accessible narrative. Harry Josephine Giles, a renowned poet and performer, crafts this unique adventure in minority language poetry, accompanied by a vivid English translation to ensure no nuance is lost. The story is a testament to the author's talent, offering a fresh and audacious take on science fiction. The rich and varied cast of characters brings to life a compelling story that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. The novel's setting on a space station adds a layer of cosmic adventure, while the use of the Orcadian dialect and its parallel English translation make it a significant contribution to both science fiction and minority language literature. Deep Wheel Orcadia is a must-read for those interested in innovative storytelling, linguistic diversity, and the exploration of human connection in the vastness of space.