Isola by Allegra Goodman (2025 fiction)

This story of Marguerite de la Rocque de Roberval is based on that of a real person who lived in France in the 16 th century. Born to privilege, she was orphaned at an early age, and her wealth and inherited lands placed under the control of a guardian Her guardian strips the estate of its wealth in order to finance voyages to the New World, so that Marguerite becomes impoverished and under his control. When Marguerite is about 20, he determines to take her and her nurse Damienne to the New World in a voyage similar to that of Cartier, to the eastern edge of Canada. On the voyage, Margurite becomes involved with her guardian’s secretary, Auguste, incurring her guardian’s anger. As punishment, he maroons Marguerite, Damienne, and Auguste on a small unnamed island known on maps simply as “Isola.” With little food and only the clothing and items in the trunks they brought with them, the three carve out an existence on the small island. During the warmer months, they are able to hunt and fish, but the winters are extreme and survival is difficult. Auguste becomes ill and dies, with the two women forced to live on their own. Later, Damienne also perishes, leaving Marguerite alone. This is a story of spirit and faith, of a courageous woman who survives against all odds. It makes fascinating reading and perhaps a desire to know more about her.

Reviewed by Ginger Russell