A witty, layered and compelling novel about a woman with Down Syndrome, exploring textile art, sibling relationships, good intentions gone awry, and friendships.
Colours in Her Hands introduces us to Mina, a woman with Down Syndrome, who has a good life in Montreal: she lives by herself, has a job and a boyfriend, and resents the interference of her overprotective brother, Bruno (who is legally responsible for her, and is increasingly involved in helping to manage her daily life).
In Mina’s spare time, she embroiders. One day in the park, Mina meets Iris, a designer who sees Mina’s bold textile creations and recognizes her artistic genius – and who becomes tempted with the possibility of marketing Mina’s work as “outsider art.” But is that what Mina wants? And what can – or should – Bruno do about it?
Colours in Her Hands is a nuanced, delightful and thought-provoking novel about art, about family, about questioning the labels that society places on those who are different. With an unforgettable voice, Mina navigates the labyrinth that society sets for her with dignity, inventiveness, and aplomb.