Author and Cleveland State University professor Hilary Plum has released her latest work, a novel titled "State Champ" that delves into the contentious world of reproductive rights. As CSU News reports, Plum's new book reflects a stark reality following the enforcement of a rigid "heartbeat law" which has seen the closure of abortion clinics across the Rust Belt.
Plum, whose expertise as an editor spans over two decades, continues to explore diverse narratives through her writing, including fiction, essays, and poetry. "State Champ" is not only her sixth publication but her third novel, showcasing her literary proficiency. According to a statement obtained by CSU News, Plum mentioned that she "regularly write and comment on issues in book publishing," citing her participation in the podcast "Index for Continuance," which she co-hosts with fellow CSU alum Zach Peckham. Her dedication to addressing critical societal topics is evident through her creative endeavors.
The story follows protagonist Angela, a former high school running champion, turned college dropout and abortion clinic receptionist. Her world is upended after the clinic closes in the wake of her boss's arrest for conducting illegal medical procedures. Angela's act of defiance, a hunger strike, is positioned as both a political statement and a physical manifestation of her protest. “Subjects of my work include protest and forms of care, work and labor, writing illness, and considering the legacy of the 'global war on terror,” Plum told CSU News. She connects these themes with the ongoing fight for bodily autonomy and reproductive healthcare.
Leni Zumas, a fellow novelist, praised "State Champ" for its captivating voice. In a review cited by CSU News, Zumas exclaimed, "Oh, this voice! Ferocious, hilarious, slippery, wise, I couldn’t stop listening. Hilary Plum is one of my favorite writers working today because her curiosity about injustice and liberation is so relentless, so tender, and so alert to the fact that every single one of us is implicated in the struggle." This isn't just a story, it's a confrontation of the harsh realities affecting reproductive rights and privacy.
In discussing the inspiration behind her novel, Plum acknowledges that elements are drawn from her personal experiences as a woman, an athlete, and someone managing chronic illness within the workplace. The novel stands as a direct comment on the erosion of abortion access and reproductive rights, gender equality, and gender-affirming care—an erosion that began even before landmark decisions like Dobbs. For more information on "State Champ" or to order a copy, readers can visit the CSU website.
