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In this book, readers meet an interesting narrator named Yann, who, in 1939, met the famous writer Albert Camus. Klaus, another character, learns of the death of Albert Camus and has his world turned upside down. Readers then embark on the journey of meeting Camus, who was “known to be cagey and reluctant to talk about private matters,” with Yann. Yann’s discussion with Camus reveals a world of censorship, imposed silence, and uncontrollable change. As the novel continues, Yann and Klaus’ lives intertwine because of Camus and also because of Klaus’ father’s selflessness many years ago. Simultaneously, readers travel through the wars that have ravaged Europe for decades and the historical and emotional scars those wars have left on the land.
The characters reveal themselves in unforgettable ways in this novel. With its focus on Camus, the book naturally develops an inquisitive, philosophical tone. This tone also develops because of the meditative, poetic writing. The novel captures well the intersections where one’s personal life overlaps with current and historical events. Yann’s role as a Camus scholar also attests to the life-changing power of literature. Yann’s lifelong dedication to Camus and literature as a whole also shows the important role literature holds in current and historical events. This is a powerful message that resonates with the literary world and global events today, giving this book even more emotional and intellectual weight. Readers who enjoy historical fiction in general will enjoy this page-turner. Those who appreciate historical fiction focusing on influential writers and literary figures will definitely cherish this book.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review