Review: The Real Lolita
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3 stars. I enjoyed reading this, because I'm thirsty for all things Lolita right now. But this book has some issues.
Sarah Weinman writes here what is essentially an extended longread article connecting the kidnapping of Sally Horner to the subject of Nabokov's brilliant and controversial novel Lolita. She frames it almost as an expose - a revelation. Guess what?! She whispers, beckoning us closer: Lolita MAY have been based on a true story! And, upon not getting the reaction she wanted, continues: Nabokov MAY have covered it up! And, even further: Lolita is problematic!
I really appreciate your writing, Sarah, and your dedication to an important and fascinating subject matter. But here's the thing: this book comes across as a smug attempt to pat yourself on the back. So WHAT if Nabokov based his masterpiece on a true story, and covered it up? It's a fantastic footnote! But perhaps not a bombshell. I also think it's safe to say that many of us were not "tricked" into thinking Lolita is a love story, most who think that are not yet mature enough to comprehend the intricacies of the novel.
So perhaps it's not the approach taken here, but the tone. All that being said, the retelling of Sally Horner's story is deftly done, despite a lot of stretching. Sally Horner absolutely deserves attention, and Weinman paints a portrait of the kidnapping and investigation with vivid and appropriate contextual colors. This book overall is very readable, and very thoughtful. I enjoyed the tidbits about Navokov and his writing process. I enjoyed the strengthening of Vera's legacy.
I would recommend this for folks studying Lolita - not, honestly, true crime fans. It makes for a wonderful article and the writing really is quite good. But it doesn't come across as groundbreaking as it tries to.