Finished this one yesterday and one other book last night.
Anton draws remarkable characters and their strengths and weaknesses while surviving in a poor Italian village during WWII. We meet people from old age down to newborn, as a main character is also the midwife for the area. We have young lovers, childhood friendships, Nazis and liberators, Il Duce and Russian soldiers coming to this town as well.
Natural deaths, suicides, and firing squads. Lots to give nightmares as wartime conditions are described. Then lots to give joy as babies are born, lovers reunite, and folks start to rebuild.
By the way, the second reading was BEOWULF and after all is said and done, I can not recommend this classic story that has survived since 950 A.D. or thereabouts.
Reply With Quote
Bookmarks