First published: 06/08/2024
Héloïse Press has announced the acquisition of "Imperfect Bodies," an "uncompromising" memoir by Ali Isaac that explores the multifaceted experiences of the female body. Publisher and founder Aina Martí-Balcells secured the UK, Ireland, and Commonwealth rights from Charlotte Seymour at Johnson & Alcock, with the memoir set for publication in March 2026. This significant acquisition marks the first memoir to be signed by the publisher.
"Imperfect Bodies" will delve into the societal and medical perceptions of the female body through the poignant and insightful narrative of a mother raising a daughter with a rare genetic condition. Isaac's memoir examines the myriad aspects of the female experience, including pregnancy, aging, reproductive health, and miscarriage. Through her deeply personal story, she illuminates how these experiences are shaped and sometimes distorted by public discourse.
Through weaving personal narrative with broader societal critique, the memoir offers readers a unique and impactful perspective on the female body.
Isaac's exploration is not just an intimate reflection but also a broader commentary on the ways in which female bodies are discussed and perceived in various societal and medical contexts. "Imperfect Bodies" promises to be a compelling read that challenges readers to reconsider and reflect on their own understandings of the female form.
Ali Isaac lives in Ireland with her husband, two sons, and daughter, Carys. She graduated from Maynooth University as a (very) mature student in 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts First Class Honours degree in English and History, with a Special Interest in Irish Cultural Heritage. She followed this with a Master of Arts First Class Honours degree in English Literatures of Engagement. Her writing has been published in The Stinging Fly, Sonder, Paper Lanterns, and Catatonic Daughters. She also writes for Substack. Ali was selected for the Penguin Write Now Program 2020. She was awarded a mentorship with author Sara Baume from Words Ireland and The Arts Council of Ireland. She was also the recipient of a Literature Bursary Award from The Arts Council of Ireland.
The memoir's publication is anticipated to make waves in the literary community and beyond, offering a fresh and critical perspective on issues that resonate deeply with many. As Héloïse Press ventures into memoirs with this first acquisition, "Imperfect Bodies" sets a high standard for future publications.
Readers and critics alike await the release of "Imperfect Bodies" in March 2026, expecting a narrative that is as thought-provoking as it is beautifully crafted. Ali Isaac's contribution to the discourse on the female body is poised to be a significant addition to contemporary literature.
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