All the Light We Cannot See appeared in my dream the other night, so I knew this important title would be the focus of this blog post. After mysteries, historical fiction is my favorite genre. I am exploring what makes historical fiction so compelling and reveals the truth of our history?
All the Light We Cannot See is a perfect example to answer that question. When an author describes using each of his senses in his setting, you are transported into the lives of the characters. You can taste, smell and touch the places the author has revealed in his words. Many authors pepper in visual descriptions, so you can see what the characters see. But when an author such as Anthony Doerr reminds us of the other senses, we are there during a bombing raid or living in a tenement or hearing the rush of the ocean in Ocean City.
Anthony Doerr shows exemplary skill in this title using his senses because his main character is blind. Marie-Laure is taught by her father to explore her sightless world so she can live an independent life. She becomes aware of each brick, manhole cover, and scent in her neighborhood and we experience her scientific and literary world along with her.
Werner, Marie-Laure’s counterpart in this story, uses his fine sense of touch and hearing as he explores the world of radio waves. I do not understand the science, but I was transported to the bombed out basement with Werner when he scanned “frequencies by feel.” Read this book to see what a master Doerr is with language and sensual description!
What other historical fiction titles can compare to this new masterpiece? I have Erika Robuck to thank for reminding me of recent evocative historical fiction titles. Her TopTen of 2014 is a wonder and it includes Doerr’s latest title. Check out her blog MUSE for a list you will want on your bedside table.
Since I often switch from adult books to children’s literature, I’ll recommend a few extra bonus books here. Karen Cushman, Katherine Paterson and Avi are masters in this genre for middle grade readers. You will be surprised at the tightness and the concepts in the writing these authors present which will interest adults as well as children. My favorite children’s review blog will inspire you to read even more of these great ones. www.ThisKidReviewsBooks.com
Until next time: Happy Reading in 2015!
http://www.erikarobuck.com/Blog.html
Best Books By Beth 