FICKASISCHKE, L.
This debut novel by poet Kasischke is not for everyone. It is grim and depressing. There are moments in the book when the most pertinent question seems to be--Who care less about the main character, the reader or the girl herself?
Leila is a receptionist at the Swan Motel, not averse to taking on a few paying customers. The locals call her the town slut, and not without reason. Her mother turned a few tricks when money got low and carried on for years with her own brother-in-law. Until he killed her.
Leila seems headed down the same path, especially after she falls for Gary, whose idea of love is sharing her with his friends. Unnerving, but lyrical.
