This April the Italian Book Club in Mumbai reads Accabadora by Michela Murgia.
Accabadora, published in 2009, is an award-winning novel set in 1950s Sardinia that explores themes of tradition, motherhood, and morality. It follows Maria Listru, a young girl from a poor family who is adopted by Bonaria Urrai, a wealthy but aging seamstress. Maria eventually learns that Bonaria is an accabadora—a woman who performs mercy killings for the terminally ill, following an old Sardinian tradition. As Maria struggles with the ethical implications of Bonaria’s secret role, she is forced to confront her own beliefs about life, death, and duty. The novel is a poignant reflection on cultural customs and personal choices, blending coming-of-age elements with deep moral questions. Accabadora is winner of seven major literary prizes, including the Premio Campiello.
Michela Murgia (1972–2023) was an Italian writer and activist from Sardinia. Known for her exploration of tradition, identity, and social issues, she gained international recognition with Accabadora. Beyond literature, she was a vocal advocate for feminism, LGBTQ+ rights, and political activism.
Wednesday 23rd April | Title Waves Bookstore, Bandra | 6.30 pm
The book may be read in the Italian original or in English.