"To survive was to escape fate. But if you escape your fate, whose life do you then step into?"
Jakob Beer is a Holocaust survivor. At the age of seve"To survive was to escape fate. But if you escape your fate, whose life do you then step into?"
Jakob Beer is a Holocaust survivor. At the age of seven, he is rescued while on the run – a fugitive of sorts – from the death grip of the Nazis. His mother, father and beloved sister Bella are not so fortunate. Jakob will spend a lifetime trying to piece together the memories of his past and those he loved. The writing is simply astonishing. The prose often reads like poetry and the effect is quite powerful. I actually hesitated about writing this review and have delayed putting my mind to the task – it's very difficult for me to express my thoughts on this book. I feel inclined to state that you just need to read this and absorb the words on your own. However, I will attempt to cobble together something of a review here!
Hidden in the mud of an archeological dig site, Jakob is rescued by a Greek geologist named Athos and is spirited away to the Greek island of Zakynthos where he will remain hidden for the duration of the war. Here Jakob will learn about those things that Athos is most passionate about – geology, geography, languages and poetry. An everlasting bond of love is formed between this pair, yet the memories of Jakob's family continually haunt him. "Any given moment – no matter how casual, how ordinary – is poised, full of gaping life. I can no longer remember their faces, but I imagine expressions trying to use up a lifetime of love in the last second. No matter the age of the face, at the moment of death a lifetime of emotion still unused turns a face young again." He has the sensation that his sister Bella visits him and calls to him from beyond the grave. Not understanding the meaning of this, he feels she is beckoning him to join her. "Awake at night, I'd hear her breathing or singing next to me in the dark, half comforted, half terrified that my ear was pressed against the thin wall between the living and the dead…" After the war, Athos and Jakob emigrate from Greece to Toronto, Canada where Jakob will continue to be nurtured by the love and teachings of Athos. Jakob translates works, he develops his artistry as a poet and further learns the power of the written word and the meaning hidden in those words not spoken. The key to understanding what Bella has always hoped and wished for him finally becomes evident as he eventually discovers true love. "To remain with the dead is to abandon them. All the years I felt Bella entreating me, filled with her loneliness, I was mistaken. I have misunderstood her signals. Like other ghosts, she whispers; not for me to join her, but so that, when I'm close enough, she can push me back into the world." If you read this book, no doubt you will adore Athos and love him as Jakob did, you will cry for Jakob and want to comfort him when he wakes from another nightmare, and you will ache for Jakob as he attempts to put the pieces of his life together in his search for self.
Now, I would have been quite pleased if this novel had ended here with Jakob's story. However, I began a new section of the book and was admittedly a bit confused to realize that a new character is introduced at this late point. Ben's story is his own, with only a small tie to Jakob's story in that Ben once heard Jakob reading his own poetry. Ben is the son of Holocaust survivors. He also has his own struggles to overcome. It took some time, but I eventually realized that Ben's salvation hinged on his discovery of Jakob's story. Here the reader will again be able to piece together another portion of Jakob's life; a hole in the earlier story will be filled in for us.
I highly recommend this book if you admire exquisite poetic language and are not opposed to a non-linear story. Bits of Jakob's memory of his life before the Nazi invasion are intertwined with his current life under the care of Athos. The beauty of Zakynthos and Greece are wonderfully conveyed through Anne Michaels' writing. If you are perhaps thinking that you have had your fill of Holocaust books, please reconsider and read this one. This is a story of loss, memories of those lost, love in its many forms, the power of words, and the grace of salvation. I have given this book 4 stars only because of the slightly disjointed feeling I had with the change in narrator in the last third of the book. However, things did eventually tie together in a sense so this is just a minor quibble. I definitely think that I could take away even more from this book on a re-read and that ultimately this would be a 5 star book on my shelf.
"The English language was food. I shoved it into my mouth, hungry for it. A gush of warmth spread through my body, but also panic, for with each mouthful the past was further silenced." ...more
I finished this book about a month ago and have been letting my thoughts first simmer and then actually almost get pushed onto the back burner as our I finished this book about a month ago and have been letting my thoughts first simmer and then actually almost get pushed onto the back burner as our summer holidays began. Once I decided to look over my notes, I realized that a review might be quite overwhelming. Furthermore, the book did not necessarily endear itself to me more over time as many typically do when I prepare to write down my impressions. On the other hand, I most certainly acknowledge that this was an important book and quite a feat of writing on the part of George Eliot. I applaud her efforts at setting on paper her ideas regarding feminism, the British aristocracy, and racial identity, in particular that of Judaism. What I had the most trouble with was the often cumbersome reflections of the main characters which detracted from the flow of the narrative. The interactions between the characters were to me the most stimulating portions to absorb as a reader. The characterizations were well done – some characters being more interesting, even if not likable, than others.
"She had a naïve delight in her fortunate self, which any but the harshest saintliness will have some indulgence for in a girl who had every day seen a pleasant reflection of that self in her friends’ flattery as well as in the looking-glass." The spoiled and self-absorbed Gwendolen Harleth finds herself in a position she never expected to be – that of bad luck and sudden poverty. What is a girl to do in this situation? Degrade oneself by taking a position or, perhaps worse yet, accept an offer of marriage? "Her observation of matrimony had inclined her to think it rather a dreary state in which a woman could not do what she liked, had more children than were desirable, was consequently dull, and became irrevocably immersed in humdrum." Saucy little turns of phrase such as this won me over and held my attention. Gwendolen was perhaps the most interesting and multi-layered character of this book.
When Gwendolen Harleth meets the saintlike figure of Daniel Deronda, their lives become connected as she attempts to better herself to become deserving of his friendship and esteem. But while Gwendolen fights her demons, Deronda struggles with his own identity crisis - one which stems from an unknown parentage as well as from a strong spiritual link to an impassioned Jewish nationalist, Mordecai. Deronda "had not the Jewish consciousness, but he had a yearning, grown the stronger for the denial which had been his grievance, after the obligation of avowed filial and social ties." Throughout this novel, Eliot illustrates the feelings of anti-Semitism which were prevalent during the 19th century. Through Deronda, however, these feelings are changed as he develops a relationship with both Mirah, to whom he is also a savior, as well as Mordecai. Deronda learns the true and principled nature of the Jewish people and their desire to achieve a national identity. "… let the unity of Israel which has made the growth and form of its religion be an outward reality. Looking toward a land and a polity, our dispersed people in all the ends of the earth may share the dignity of a national life which has a voice among the peoples of the East and the West…"
Several more players are introduced into the plot, too many for me to delve into detail here. I will say that Mr. Grandcourt and Mr. Lush make my list for the most strikingly malodorous individuals – in a very amusing sort of way. They provided a nice counterbalance to the gushing wholesomeness of Deronda and Mirah. Gwendolen’s mother was a bit silly and spineless, especially in relation to her daughter.
This was my fourth George Eliot novel. While I did like it - once I plowed through the more laborious portions of it- I have to say that it is my least favorite so far. Both Middlemarch and The Mill on the Floss were much more readable and engaging and I would recommend either of these – especially for a first time Eliot reader. I am glad that I read this one, and happy to add it to my list of more difficult tomes I have completed. 3.5 stars rounded down. ...more
"Softness and helplessness got you nothing in this place. Tears only emptied you out."
Far from being soft and helpless, Beryl Markham was an 4.5 stars
"Softness and helplessness got you nothing in this place. Tears only emptied you out."
Far from being soft and helpless, Beryl Markham was an extraordinary and courageous woman whom I knew nothing about prior to reading this riveting, fictionalized account of her life. Abandoned by her mother at an early age and raised by her father in the gorgeous setting of early twentieth century Kenya, Beryl quickly acquired the tenacity and independence required to survive the life of a woman in a world ordered by man, beast and the unpredictable landscape itself. I felt nothing less than admiration for this woman as she forged her way, facing challenges I could not imagine - at least not in this part of the world I am fortunate enough to live in today. I may not always have agreed with her choices, but I cannot fairly judge anyone living in such a place and time. She was a complex individual who had her own faults and strengths that molded her character into one that made this book a delight to read.
"Before Kenya was Kenya, I threw a spear and a rungu club. I loved a horse with wings. I never felt alone or small. I was Lakwet."
One of the most personal and touching parts of this story for me was Beryl's relationship with Ruta, a native and member of the Kipsigis tribe. Essentially motherless, Beryl was nurtured and renamed Lakwet, or 'very little girl', by the Kipsigis who treated her as one of their own. An early bond formed with the young boy Ruta changes over time and circumstances but never weakens. Despite all her loves and heartaches, Beryl's relationship with Ruta is one that is pure and sustains her throughout her life. Beryl's life intertwines with that of Denys Finch Hatton and Karen Blixen, two more fascinating individuals that I intend to read more about at a later time. Here they were presented as more one-dimensional characters, perhaps as the focus was meant to really center on Beryl in this story. "Africa sets you up to feel things you're not prepared for." Her relationship with these two allows the reader a better insight into Beryl's personality, her hopes and her desires.
Paula McClain does a tremendous job of relating the scope of Beryl's life. From raising and training horses with her father to fighting for her own right to train horses in a realm dominated completely by men, Beryl broke many barriers and established herself as a top-notch competitor in this field. I was really drawn into the descriptions of the training and the horse races themselves. I felt like a true spectator at times, feeling the exhilarating energy and anticipation of the race. "Even the losers have triumphed with her, for she has shown them something more than a race." Beryl's later entry into the world of flying was no less compelling, although this aspect of her life was emphasized to a smaller degree in this book. Setting more records in another sphere ruled by men, Beryl was nothing short of a remarkable woman.
I highly recommend this book to anyone that enjoys historical fiction and strong female protagonists. The fact that Beryl made mistakes and faced numerous obstacles due to her gender does not make her any less deserving of being called a super-heroine! This perhaps just makes her more worthy of the title as her struggles were real ones. Lastly, I can't fail to mention here that if you have any interest in the beauty and ruggedness of Africa, then you will not be disappointed by the lush descriptions and beautiful language used by Paula McLain. Her writing is first-class and I am eager to see what she has in store next. ...more
"For my entire life I longed for love. I knew it was not right for me – as a girl and later as a woman – to want or expect it, but I did, and this unj"For my entire life I longed for love. I knew it was not right for me – as a girl and later as a woman – to want or expect it, but I did, and this unjustified desire has been at the root of every problem I have experienced in my life."
What a sad yet beautiful book this was! I adore historical fiction that can really immerse me in another time and place and Snow Flower and the Secret Fan did just that. Transported back to 19th century China, I believe I arrived at a better understanding of a woman's position in this society. I learned what it was like to be a daughter, a sister, a wife and a daughter-in-law. I am admittedly grateful for not ever having to experience these often overwhelmingly harsh relationships in the way that these women did! Not for an instant can I imagine having to yearn for my mother's love with the feeling that it was something impossible to attain. And, I most certainly could not fathom bending to my mother-in-law's every command and needing to act as a lowly "visitor" in her home even as the wife of her own son. The cultural practice of footbinding was truly horrific and cringeworthy. If you, like me, decide to google any images, please consider yourself forewarned that it really does look as awful and disfiguring as you would no doubt imagine. Yet, a young girl's future and her marriageability depended heavily on the result of this archaic practice.
The one relationship that I found endearing and one that transcends both time and culture is that of a true friendship. This is so beautifully demonstrated in the bond between the narrator, Lily, and Snow Flower, her "old same". Lisa See really brings to life the nuances of their lifelong friendship which began as little girls with a contract sealing their fates in a laotong relationship. "A laotong match is as significant as a good marriage… A laotong relationship is made by choice for the purpose of emotional companionship and eternal fidelity. A marriage is not made by choice and has only one purpose – to have sons." We see the girls grow up together and experience the joys of childhood friendship – laughing, dreaming, and mourning together. The women's secret form of writing, or nu shu, begins with the communication between the little girls on the folds of a special fan that will provide a chronicle of their extraordinary relationship throughout their lives. As married women, they experience both the happiness and the sorrow of giving birth and living under the heavy thumbs of their husbands and mothers-in-law in households that scorn rather than cherish them. And, as with some friendships, these women experience the differences in social standings within a community and suffer from misunderstandings and ultimate betrayal. Can a friendship really withstand anything?
This is a wonderful book for anyone interested in the culture of China during this period and those that enjoy reading about the various connections between women. If you've ever had a true friend, this book will truly speak to you and perhaps make you just a tad nostalgic about the carefree days when you could hope and giggle with your own "bestie". ...more
This first installment of James Lee Burke's Dave Robicheaux series was my introduction to this author, and I was quite pleased with the experience! UnThis first installment of James Lee Burke's Dave Robicheaux series was my introduction to this author, and I was quite pleased with the experience! Undoubtedly gritty and often quite violent, The Neon Rain still managed to surprise me with a generous amount of almost poetic prose that was completely unexpected. The sense of atmosphere is almost dripping off the pages at times and really drew me into the New Orleans setting. "The streetlamps lighted the misty trees along the esplanade on St. Charles; the burnished streetcar tracks and the old green streetcar glistened dully in the wet light, and the smoky neon signs, the bright, rain-streaked windows of the restaurants and the drugstore on the corner were like part of a nocturnal painting out of the 1940's. This part of New Orleans never seemed to change, and somehow its confirmation of yesterday on a rainy summer night always dissipated my own fears about time and mortality."
Detective Dave Robicheaux is a fantastically flawed individual and the characterization here is top notch. A Vietnam vet with a history of alcoholism, Dave grew up in a broken home with his brother and his rough-around-the-edges but loving father. With a mother that abandoned him and a wife that dumped him, Dave is not a stranger to loneliness. I loved reading his philosophical reflections on life in the midst of a somewhat chaotic plot. Mobsters, drug lords, dirty cops, federal agents and creepy bad guys of all sorts pop up all over the place and I admit to becoming a bit confused from time to time. But that didn't really take much away from my appreciation for this novel. I enjoyed seeing the tender side of this guy as he attempted to kindle some romance in his life with a young woman named Annie. Annie had to endure more than her due share of drama as a result of her entanglement with Dave! It was also interesting to learn more about the demons that haunt an ex-alcoholic and what it is like for a woman involved with a man with such a history. "… the truth was that I wanted to drink. And I don't mean I wanted to ease back into it, either, with casual Manhattans sipped at a mahogany and brass-rail bar with red leather booths and rows of gleaming glasses stacked in front of a long wall mirror. I wanted busthead boilermakers of Jack Daniel's and draft beer, vodka on the rocks, Beam straight up with water on the side, raw tequila that left you breathless and boiling in your own juices."
If you want to know what really happens in this book, you can read the brief blurb and it won't spoil anything for you. What I can recommend is that you read this for Burke's superb narrative and character development. This is violent and gruesome at times, so if that is not your thing, then I would say either read it and cringe from time to time as I did, or perhaps steer clear altogether! I know I won't hesitate to read the next in this series or any other James Lee Burke novel for that matter.
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