Booker 2024 Shortlist: The Safekeep by Yael van der Wouden

Our panel reviewed the Safekeep (you can read our reviews here) favorably and it made it onto 3 of our predictions lists – Nicole, Tracy, and Lisa called it. The Booker judges had this to say about the book

‘Set in the early 1960s in the Netherlands in an isolated house, The Safekeep draws us into a world as carefully calibrated as a Dutch still-life. Every piece of crockery or silverware is accounted for here. Isa is the protagonist – a withdrawn figure who is safeguarding this inheritance. When her brother brings his new girlfriend Eva into this household the energy field changes as we sense boundaries of possession being crossed, other histories coming into the light. We loved this debut novel for its remarkable inhabitation of obsession. It navigates an emotional landscape of loss and return in an unforgettable way.’

What does our panel think of the odds of this book being this year’s winner? Keep reading to find out

Jen: While I don’t think this book will win, I did quite like it. I’ve heard some describe the ending as a bit gimmicky but I didn’t feel that way. It was beautifully written, has stuck with me, and an engaging read.
Why it Could Win: I think this is the sort of book that will be memorable and have an impact on readers. Why it Might Not Win: I don’t think it’s on par with the top two contenders.

Nicole: This is an excellent book which had a new aspect of WWII and how is that even possible at this point?
Why it Could Win: Interesting story, impressive debut, well-told.
Why it Might Not Win:  The competition may just be too stiff.

Tracy: I was captivated by this book from page one. And I’m still thinking about it. When it was selected for the longlist, I was thrilled, and I’m ecstatic to see it shortlisted. Definitely one of my favorites of the year.
Why it Could Win: There are so many themes, history (that doesn’t romanticize WWII thankfully), and a love story. And a PLOT.
Why it Might Not Win: James could be giving it some competition.

Anita: I literally have sworn off reading books that touch on WWII; that’s how sick of them I am. But this book was effortlessly both literary and highly readable at the same time.
Why it Could Win: It’s most certainly the best plotted of the books left on the shortlist. James is competitive in this regard, but The Safekeep is wholly original.
Why it Might Not Win: Horrors; the sex was graphic. And some readers really are not fans of sexually explicit writing, especially if it doesn’t dovetail with the way they personally experience it.

Try the book for yourself! You can purchase a copy here: The Safekeep

We want to hear from you? Have you read this one? Tell us what you thought of the book (link to your reviews or add a brief blurb in the comments). Do you think is will be the winner?