Book Pick Of The Month: November
November.
While normally I’m one to escape in books, specifically romances, to live momentarily in an imaginary world, there are certain books that come along and capture the essence of the times we live in. One such book is “All the Light We Cannot See” (2014) by Anthony Doerr.
Intro
These past few weeks have been incredibly turbulent and challenging for many of us. Just as we continue to grapple with the ongoing consequences of a global pandemic, we are also facing a multitude of other pressing issues. The escalation of the war in Ukraine, the ever-present and urgent climate crisis, concerns about rising inflation – it feels like there is no respite. Amidst all of this, the recent conflict in Gaza has created a deep impact on our social media and news feeds, causing a visible rift within our circles and communities. The constant influx of distressing information can take a toll on our mental well-being.
However, it is important to acknowledge these harsh realities while also finding ways to maintain hope and positivity amidst the chaos. Seeking moments of respite and solace, engaging in self-care and finding time for reflection even in the midst of uncertainty, can help us navigate through these turbulent times. Sometimes reading a book allows us to remember our shared humanity, to focus on fostering empathy, working towards creating a more compassionate and understanding world.
Book Pick of the Month: November
While normally I’m one to escape in books, specifically romances, to live momentarily in an imaginary world, there are certain books that come along and capture the essence of the times we live in. One such book is “All the Light We Cannot See” (2014) by Anthony Doerr.
This highly acclaimed and multiple award-winning novel takes us back to occupied France during World War II. It tells the captivating story of a blind French girl named Marie-Laure and a German boy named Werner. Their paths cross and intertwine as they both navigate the devastating effects of war and strive to survive in a world filled with chaos and uncertainty.
The Plot
The story is set during World War II and follows the lives of two main characters: Marie-Laure LeBlanc, a blind French girl, and Werner Pfennig, a German orphan with a talent for radio technology.
Marie-Laure lives in Paris near the Museum of Natural History, where her father works. When she is twelve, the Nazis occupy Paris and father and daughter flee to the walled citadel of Saint-Malo, where Marie-Laure’s reclusive great uncle lives in a tall house by the sea. With them they carry what might be the museum’s most valuable and dangerous jewel.
In a mining town in Germany, Werner Pfennig, an orphan, grows up with his younger sister, enchanted by a crude radio they find that brings them news and stories from places they have never seen or imagined. Werner becomes an expert at building and fixing these crucial new instruments and is enlisted to use his talent to track down the resistance. Deftly interweaving the lives of Marie-Laure and Werner, Doerr illuminates the ways, against all odds, people try to be good to one another.
As the war unfolds, their lives become entwined in unexpected ways. Marie-Laure and her father flee Paris as the Nazis occupy the city, carrying with them a valuable jewel known as the Sea of Flames. Werner, on the other hand, is recruited by the German army and becomes a soldier in the midst of the conflict.
Excerpts
Anthony Doerr’s writing beautifully captures the essence of the characters’ experiences, making the story come alive in a way that is both poignant and thought-provoking. The book explores themes of courage, resilience, and the power of human connection even in the darkest of times. The title itself alludes to the unseen aspects of life, both literal and metaphorical, that shape the characters’ experiences.
“Open your eyes and see what you can with them before they close forever.”
― Anthony Doerr, All the Light We Cannot See
Through vivid and evocative prose, Doerr brings to life the sights, sounds, and emotions of war-torn France, painting a vivid picture of a world where ordinary people are forced to confront extraordinary circumstances. The author’s meticulous research and attention to detail make the historical backdrop of the novel feel authentic and immersive.
“You know the greatest lesson of history? It’s that history is whatever the victors say it is. That’s the lesson. Whoever wins, that’s who decides the history. We act in our own self-interest. Of course we do. Name me a person or a nation who does not. The trick is figuring out where your interests are.”
― Anthony Doerr, All the Light We Cannot See
“All the Light We Cannot See” is not just a war story; it is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the triumph of hope in the face of adversity. It reminds us of the power of compassion and empathy, even in the midst of unimaginable hardship. With its intriguing storyline, well-developed characters, and lyrical prose, this instant New York Times bestseller is a compelling read that will keep you captivated from beginning to end. Whether you’re a fan of historical fiction or simply looking for a powerful and poignant tale, “All the Light We Cannot See” is a book that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
“Don’t you want to be alive before you die?”
― Anthony Doerr, All the Light We Cannot See
The Netflix Series
In case you prefer visuals over words, you’re in luck:
After selling more than 15 million copies worldwide, Netflix just released a four-part limited series based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Anthony Doerr. Stranger Things producer Shawn Levy has taken on the project and it includes Hollywood actors, such as Mark Ruffalo (Avengers: Endgame) and Hugh Laurie (House), as well as German actor Louis Hofmann (Dark). A cool fun fact: playing the lead role is Aria Mia Loberti, a non-actor who is legally blind like the character Marie-Laure. Producer Levy opened a worldwide casting call for low-vision actresses because he wanted to authentically cast a blind actor for the part (Collider, 2023). Watch the trailer here:
Where to buy the book:
So, if you’re in search of a book that will transport you to a different time and place, where love and hope can still shine even in the darkest of moments, I highly recommend picking up “All the Light We Cannot See” by Anthony Doerr. It is truly a literary masterpiece that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
Sincerely, The Blonde Yeti 
The Blonde Yeti 
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