Explore Guilt and Adventure in Gina Butson’s Debut Novel

Gina Butson, a former lawyer and government advisor, has made her literary debut with the novel A Million Glittering Worlds, released by Allen & Unwin. This engaging narrative, which intertwines themes of guilt and adventure, transports readers across stunning landscapes from New Zealand’s Ruapehu to Guatemala’s Lake Atitlán. Butson’s work invites exploration of how the past shapes our identities and relationships.

The story opens in 2006 with Thea, a character grappling with her past as she embarks on a climbing expedition at Ruapehu. The novel captures the mountain’s presence, described as a “dark seismic line between earth and sky,” symbolizing the divide between memory and reality. As Thea journeys to San Pedro La Laguna in 2007, she encounters Sarah and Chris, two fellow backpackers. Their dynamic creates a love triangle that complicates their adventurous lives.

Butson skillfully weaves Thea’s internal struggles with her relationships, particularly in moments of friendship and self-discovery. As Thea reflects on her feelings of guilt and the memories she has pushed aside, readers witness her gradual transformation. The narrative eloquently depicts the complexities of human emotions, notably through Thea’s bond with Sarah, who encourages her to engage in “small acts of courage.”

One notable aspect of Butson’s writing is how she brings physicality to intimacy, particularly in Thea’s interactions with Chris. While some readers may find the novel’s treatment of sexual scenes somewhat reserved, Butson’s approach adds a layer of tension and anticipation. The narrative delves into Thea’s thoughts as she contemplates Chris’s anatomy, reflecting both her profession as a physiotherapist and her emotional barriers.

The settings in A Million Glittering Worlds are richly evocative, capturing the beauty of locations like Muriwai and Wellington Harbour. Butson employs nature metaphors, allowing readers to feel the cold peaks of Ruapehu as a constant backdrop to the characters’ journeys. The climactic expedition on Ruapehu serves as a thrilling moment in the story, where the characters confront both nature and their inner demons.

Butson’s portrayal of Ruapehu extends beyond mere landscape, touching on its cultural significance to the ngā iwi o te kāhui maunga. The mountain is revered by the indigenous people of the area, particularly Ngāti Tūwharetoa. The author subtly acknowledges this relationship, reminding readers of the complexities surrounding mountain climbing and indigenous beliefs. The narrative hints at historical injustices, including the Crown’s attempts to appropriate land and the ongoing struggle for recognition and respect.

In addition to its themes of adventure and guilt, A Million Glittering Worlds serves as a poignant reflection on reconciling with history and identity. Thea’s journey symbolizes the broader experience of settlers grappling with their past. As she navigates her connection to Aotearoa, the mountain stands as a reminder that history is ever-present, and the act of turning away from it leads to turmoil.

Gina Butson’s debut offers an enriching reading experience that combines adventure with deep emotional resonance. A Million Glittering Worlds is now available in bookstores nationwide for $37.99. The novel stands as a testament to the power of storytelling, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences and the landscapes that shape them.