Summary

The novel takes place in the present day, in an unspecified town or city. Chapter 1 opens on the twenty-first birthday of Zelda, who is the narrator and protagonist. She is developmentally disabled, specifically in that she has cognitive disabilities. She lives with her brother, Gert, who is a year or two older than her. Their mother is deceased, and they are estranged from their father. Zelda and Gert live in an apartment together. Gert organizes a small gathering for Zelda’s birthday. Zelda is deeply interested in the history and culture of Vikings. As a surprise for Zelda, Gert hires an entertainer to come to the apartment dressed as a Viking. The other guests are Marxy and his mother Pearl. Marxy is about the same age as Zelda and is also developmentally disabled. Zelda and Marxy attend the same classes at the community center...