Magda Szabó — Abigail with Deborah H. Sussman

Send us Fan MailA literary icon in her native Hungary, Magda Szabó was relatively unknown to English-speaking readers until recent translations of her work opened the door to her powerful storytelling. In today’s episode we focus on her 1970 novel Abigail, which follows a headstrong teenager at an all-girls boarding school during WWII. Dangerous secrets, emotional complexity and an unexpected guardian angel add intrigue to this poignant coming-of-age tale. Our guest, Deborah H. Sussman of the ASU Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts, brings her perspective as the daughter of a Holocaust survivor to our discussion about preserving innocence in the midst of darkness.Mentioned in this episode:Abigail by Magda SzabóThe Door by Magda SzabóLen Rix translations of Magda SzabóPhotos of the Dóczy High School of the Debrecen Reformed College which inspired Matula AcademyMagda Szabó Memorial House museum“More Than a Survivor” by Deborah H. SussmanVillette by Charlotte BronteThe Prime of Miss Jean Brodie by Muriel SparkThe HoldoversThe Sound of Music2015 Musical production of Abigél from Ady TeátrumTrailer for Abigél 1978 miniseries for Hungarian television2012 film adaptation of The Door starring Helen MirrenSupport the showFor episodes and show notes, visit: LostLadiesofLit.comSubscribe to our substack newsletter.Follow us on instagram @lostladiesoflit. Email us: Contact — Lost Ladies of Lit Podcast