On the Calculation of Volume I by Solvej Balle. Review

This week on Bookies’ Favourite, we’re tackling the ambitious and reality-bending On the Calculation of Volume I by Solvej Balle, translated from Danish by Barbara J. Haveland and published by Faber.It’s the first book in a septology, and we’re diving deep into its looping timelines, philosophical undercurrents, and quiet emotional resonance. What’s it like to relive the same day again and again—especially when no one else notices? Is this the boldest book on the shortlist so far?We’re joined by special guest Imie Kent-Muller, aka @mythicreader, who brings her sharp insight to this cerebral and structurally daring novel.📖 Next week: We’ll be reading Small Boat by Vincent Delecroix, translated from French by Helen Stevenson and published by Small Axes. A quiet, lyrical novella about grief, music, and drifting through memory, it’s a haunting journey we can’t wait to discuss. New episode lands Monday, May 12th—read along with us!✨ Join the club:Have thoughts on Volume, Boat, or the shortlist in general? We love hearing from listeners—send us your takes and we might feature them in future episodes!📘 Facebook: Bookies’ Favourite📸 Instagram: @bookiesfavouritebookclub🐦 Twitter/X: @BookiesFavorite📚 Goodreads: Bookies’ Favourite Bookclub📧 Email: [email protected] for listening—and don’t worry, this episode only happens once.