In the novel “Is Mother Alive,” Vigdis Hjort ruthlessly explores the problems of mother-daughter relationships. This is a strong, wise, but also tough work on a very important topic. Once upon a time, Yukhanna broke off all relations with her family. Years later, she returns to her native place and tries to understand what really caused their painful separation. To do this, it is vital for her to talk to her mother. However, all her attempts to reach her are in vain. The mother does not answer the phone, does not answer letters, it is as if she is not in this world. Yuhanna observes the family's life from afar. She must keep trying. Should she? “I left my husband and family for a man they found dubious and for an occupation they found repulsive... didn’t come home when my father was sick, didn’t come home when he died.” “They They thought it was terrible, I’m terrible.” “Nevertheless, I called my mother. Of course she didn't answer. What did I think? What did you expect?” “In reality, everything is not like in the Bible, when the prodigal child returns and a feast is held in his honor.” “Yort’s task ... is to show that some wounds cannot be healed.” – Galina Yuzefovich for Meduza.io “Vigdis Hjort’s ruthless but fluid literary style works flawlessly.” – Financial Times “Vigdis Hjort is one of the leading modern Scandinavian literary figures.” – Dågens Nyheter “Vigdis Hjort’s work stands against repression, taboos and for talking about difficult topics as they would in real life.” – New Yorker