Affinity by Sarah Waters. Summary of the book.

Affinity by Sarah Waters: Summary and Interesting Facts

Affinity by Sarah Waters is a historical novel, published in 1999. It is set in Victorian England and tells the story of Margaret Prior, a young woman who is sent to Millbank prison and meets Selina Dawes, a medium, who will change her life forever.

Margaret is a privileged young woman who is sent to Millbank prison as a visitor. She is there to observe and help the inmates, but what she doesn’t expect is to meet Selina Dawes, a medium who has been sent to prison for fraud. Margaret and Selina form an unlikely friendship, and Margaret soon finds herself believing in Selina’s abilities and drawn into her world.

The novel follows Margaret as she visits Selina and learns more about her and her gifts. As Margaret and Selina’s friendship deepens, Margaret has to face her own fears and prejudices, as well as the realities of Victorian society. The novel is a compelling exploration of the power of belief and how it can shape our lives.

Interesting Facts About Affinity

  • The novel is based on the real-life story of Florence Cook, a Victorian medium who was sent to prison for fraud.
  • The novel won the 2000 Somerset Maugham Award.
  • The novel was adapted for the stage by playwright Simon Stephens in 2006.
  • The novel has been adapted for film twice, once in 2008 and again in 2019.

Themes and Teachings

Affinity explores many themes, including the power of belief, the effects of Victorian society on women, and the dangers of fraud. The novel also explores the power of friendship and how it can help us to overcome our fears and prejudices.

The novel also teaches us that it is important to be open to new experiences and to question our assumptions. Margaret learns this lesson through her friendship with Selina, and it is this lesson that helps her to overcome her fears and prejudices.

FAQs

Q: Who wrote Affinity?

A: Affinity was written by Sarah Waters, a British author, in 1999.

Q: What is Affinity about?

A: Affinity is a historical novel set in Victorian England. It tells the story of Margaret Prior, a young woman who visits Millbank prison and meets Selina Dawes, a medium who changes her life forever.

Q: What awards has Affinity won?

A: Affinity won the 2000 Somerset Maugham Award.

Q: Has Affinity been adapted for film?

A: Affinity has been adapted for film twice, once in 2008 and again in 2019.

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