Saba Sams Reflects on Influential Literature and Personal Growth

Saba Sams, a contemporary writer, shares her reflections on the books that have shaped her literary journey, emphasizing the profound impact of various authors and narratives on her development as a reader and writer. Sams recalls her early reading experiences, notably her enjoyment of Jacqueline Wilson's works, which she found to be refreshingly unconventional compared to typical children's literature. She highlights her favorite childhood book, *The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie* by Muriel Spark, which she recently revisited and found equally captivating.

The Guardian

As a teenager, Sams encountered *Blood and Guts in High School* by Kathy Acker, a book that expanded her emotional landscape and challenged her perceptions of literature. She credits Gwendoline Riley for influencing her writing style, appreciating Riley's focus on complex female protagonists and the depth of her narratives. Sams expresses admiration for Ali Smith's *The Whole Story and Other Stories*, particularly a story titled "Erosive," which inspired her to pursue writing as a playful and satisfying endeavor.

The Guardian

Sams discusses her evolving relationship with literature, noting how certain books resonate differently at various stages of life. She recounts her experience with *Água Viva* by Clarice Lispector, which initially felt inaccessible but later provided a transformative reading experience. Another significant title for Sams is *Who Will Run the Frog Hospital?* by Lorrie Moore, a novel she finds enchanting and rich with humor and melancholy, revealing new insights with each reread.

The Guardian

Conversely, Sams expresses a lack of interest in revisiting *Wuthering Heights* by Emily Brontë, a book she studied for her A-levels. While she appreciated it at the time, she feels that her literary interests have evolved, and she prefers to explore new works instead.

The Guardian

In her current reading, Sams is engaged with *Sail Away Land* by Ben Pester, describing it as "weird and soulful," and a fitting end to her day. She also identifies *The God of Small Things* by Arundhati Roy as her comfort read, arguing that despite its sadness, the novel's core message of expansive love serves as a source of solace.

The Guardian

Saba Sams' reflections illustrate a dynamic relationship with literature, marked by growth and discovery. Her journey underscores the importance of diverse narratives and the ways in which they can shape one's identity and creative expression. As she continues to explore new literary landscapes, Sams remains open to the transformative power of reading.

The Guardian