How to Be Both

How to Be Both is a critically acclaimed novel by Ali Smith, published in 2014. The book is known for its innovative narrative structure and explores themes of art, identity, and the fluidity of time and gender. The novel is divided into two distinct yet interconnected stories: one set in the 15th century and the other in the contemporary era.

In the historical narrative, the story follows a young Italian artist named Francesco del Cossa, who is trying to understand the nature of art and his place in it. In the modern-day narrative, a teenage girl named George is dealing with the recent death of her mother and her own identity issues. The two narratives interweave, revealing connections between the past and the present and exploring how art and history shape our understanding of ourselves and each other.

Smith’s inventive storytelling includes a unique twist: readers may encounter the two narratives in any order, adding a layer of interactivity and personal interpretation to the reading experience. This approach highlights the novel’s themes of duality and the blending of different times and perspectives.

Why Read This Book

• Showcases Ali Smith’s skillful and inventive storytelling, blending historical and contemporary narratives in a unique structure.
• Explores deep themes such as art, identity, gender, and the interplay between history and personal experience.
• Offers an engaging reading experience with its flexible narrative structure, allowing readers to approach the story from multiple angles.
• Highlights Smith's ability to weave complex themes and characters into a seamless and thought-provoking narrative.

About the Author

Ali Smith (b. 1962) is a Scottish author known for her innovative and genre-defying fiction. Her work often explores themes of identity, time, and social change, and she is celebrated for her inventive narrative techniques and linguistic creativity. Smith has received numerous awards and accolades for her writing, including the Baileys Women's Prize for Fiction and the Goldsmiths Prize. Her notable works include "Hotel World," "The Accidental," and "Autumn," the latter being the first in her Seasonal Quartet.