"Kaschock's work stands out for the originality of its concepts, narrative structure, and, particularly, language, as the author redefines words in relation to her art and boldly breaks from traditional grammatical constructions. Kaschock's intimate knowledge of dance is an asset, helping her bring the sleight performers vividly to life. . . . Sleight is to the traditional fiction narrative what alternative music is to mainstream pop. Readers who enjoy the challenge of an innovative, unconventional style will take pleasure in this selection."—Library Journal
"Sleight is either disturbingly enjoyable or enjoyably disturbing-I can't decide which. What's certain is that Kirsten Kaschock is a wildly talented writer. You should read this book." -Adam Levin, author of The Instructions
"With grace and whip-smart wit, Kirsten Kaschock is a gift from the gods of young talent." -Mary Karr
Sisters Lark and Clef have spent their lives honing their bodies for sleight, an interdisciplinary art form that combines elements of dance, architecture, acrobatics, and spoken word. After being estranged for several years, the sisters are reunited by a deceptive and ambitious sleight troupe director named West who needs the sisters' opposing approaches to the form— Lark is tormented and fragile, frightened by the art she is compelled to make; Clef is driven to excel.
But when a disturbing mass murder makes national headlines, West seizes on the event as inspiration for his new performance, one that threatens to destroy the very artists performing it.In language that is at once unsettling and hypnotic, Sleight explores ideas of performance, gender, and family to ask the question: what is the role of art in the face of unthinkable tragedy?
