Hideous Kinky

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This semi-autobiographical novel draws from the author's experiences traveling with her mother, Bernadine Coverley, in North Africa during her early childhood. It intricately weaves vivid descriptions of life on the move, the desert, and its exotic characters into a poignant narrative about being part of an unconventional family. The author, daughter of artist Lucien and great-granddaughter of Sigmund Freud, reflects on her own bohemian upbringing alongside her sister, fashion designer Bella Freud, while yearning for a more stable life. The story follows Julia, a free-spirited mother, and her daughters, Lucia and Bea, as they journey to Morocco. Early in their travels, the girls decide that many sights they encounter are best described as "hideous kinky." The narrative unfolds through five-year-old Lucia's perspective, capturing her mixed emotions as she navigates their vibrant surroundings. She is enchanted by the vast desert skies and colorful markets but simultaneously longs for a conventional English upbringing with regular school and bedtime routines. As their mother delves into Sufism seeking personal and spiritual fulfillment, the girls' desire for stability amidst the shifting sands deepens. Freud's debut novel not only vividly portrays a country central to the 1970s hippie movement but also tenderly explores the complexities of childhood with simplicity and charm.