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Historical Fiction· Micronesia

Island of Shattered Dreams

by Chantal Spitz
Aggregate Editorial Score30/100
Published 1991French
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About This Book

Published in 1991, Island of Shattered Dreams established Chantal Spitz as one of the defining voices in historical fiction. Chantal Spitz's 'Island of Shattered Dreams' is a seminal work of historical fiction that explores the impact of colonialism on the indigenous people of the Pacific. Set in Tahiti, the novel weaves a narrative of love, loss, and resistance against the backdrop of cultural upheaval. Spitz's work is celebrated for its lyrical prose and its powerful critique of colonial narratives, making it a vital contribution to Pacific literature. Themes of colonialism, love, resistance run through the work.

Book Details

AuthorChantal Spitz
Published1991
Country of Origin🇫🇲 Micronesia
LanguageFrench
Category🗺️ Historical Fiction
ISBN9789820203881
Editorial Score30/100
About the Category

🗺️ Historical Fiction

Novels set in the past, blending real events with fictional narratives.

Explore all Historical Fiction books →
Country of Origin

🇫🇲 Micronesia

This book is part of Micronesia's rich literary tradition.

Explore books from Micronesia →

Editorial Assessment

Island of Shattered Dreams by Chantal Spitz sits within the tradition of historical fiction that treats language as seriously as plot. Published in 1991 in Micronesia, it engages with colonialism, love, resistance, cultural upheaval in ways that have earned it lasting critical attention. The book's place in the literary record rests on its presence across major prize lists and critical surveys. Its aggregate editorial score of 30/100 reflects recognition from 1 independent editorial sources, from international prizes to specialist critical journals. Readers coming to Island of Shattered Dreams for the first time will find a work that rewards patience. The book's handling of colonialism, love, resistance, cultural upheaval is layered rather than didactic, and a second reading often reveals dimensions the first pass only hinted at. Within Micronesia's literary landscape, Chantal Spitz occupies a significant position. Island of Shattered Dreams is both a personal artistic statement and a contribution to a tradition shaped by the country's history and cultural concerns.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.

Awards & Recognition

BBC Big Read
notable · regional
19920
✍️
About the Author
Chantal Spitz
Micronesia
View Author →

Chantal Spitz is a Micronesia author whose work in historical fiction has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Island of Shattered Dreams about?

Chantal Spitz's 'Island of Shattered Dreams' is a seminal work of historical fiction that explores the impact of colonialism on the indigenous people of the Pacific. Set in Tahiti, the novel weaves a narrative of love, loss, and resistance against the backdrop of cultural upheaval. Spitz's work is celebrated for its lyrical prose and its powerful critique of colonial narratives, making it a vital contribution to Pacific literature.

Who wrote Island of Shattered Dreams?

Island of Shattered Dreams was written by Chantal Spitz, from Micronesia. First published in 1991.

What awards has Island of Shattered Dreams won?

Island of Shattered Dreams has received the following recognition: notable critical recognition.

Is Island of Shattered Dreams worth reading?

Island of Shattered Dreams is a well-regarded book with an aggregate editorial score of 30/100 on 50 Best Books. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in colonialism, love, resistance.

Where can I buy Island of Shattered Dreams?

You can buy Island of Shattered Dreams on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is Island of Shattered Dreams?

Island of Shattered Dreams is classified as Historical Fiction. Novels set in the past, blending real events with fictional narratives.

What country is Island of Shattered Dreams from?

Island of Shattered Dreams originates from Micronesia's literary tradition. Explore more books from Micronesia on our country page.

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