Kya is the marsh girl, considered trash. She grows up alone, abandoned by every member of her family. She develops an intimate relationship with the nature around her, drawing the plants and animals in intricate detail. Her fragile position exposes her to abuse from the people of the nearby town. When a young man is found dead, she is the prime suspect. I read the book a few years ago and was so taken by the description of the marsh that I completely forgot the story of the death. The film is in the same vein, with nature, the cycle of the seasons and relationships with others at the forefront. It is a very touching story of hope and resilience.
“Within All The Words Of Biology, I Searched For An Explanation Of Why A Mother Would Leave Her Offspring.”