I've Read That...A Long Petal of the Sea

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    Are you a fan of historical fiction? How about the Spanish Civil War which preceded World War 2? Are you a Pablo Neruda fan or would like to become one? Do you enjoy watching the characters grow across generations? If you answered yes to any of these questions, A Long Petal of the Sea is for you!

     Set in Castilian Spain at the time of the Spanish Civil War and the start of Franco's rein, Isabel Allende's newest novel gives you a sense of being there. You feel the terror, frustration, and pain of being forced out of your country through the stories of the main characters, Victor Dalmau, Roser Bruguera, and the many other people and stories that intertwine with theirs. 

    While, for me, The Long Petal of the Sea was slow to start and, at first, a little difficult to find the connections between different characters, by the end you are rooting for them and see just how connected they, and frankly, we all are. The story begins in the midst of the Spanish Civil War and the different roles that each character takes on and winds its way through the difficult decisions and troubling times each character has during and after war time. Do you leave your country and the only home you have ever known? Do you trust the people you meet along the way? How can you ease the suffering of those around you? How can you help your loved ones feel safe and happy in a world racked with turmoil? Do you return home after it is all "over?"

    All throughout the book, you are greeted with the insightful poetry of Pablo Neruda. And, if like me, you did not know about his place in history in terms of war and politics, you come to learn a great deal of him and the inspirational role and impact he had on so many. In fact, I would argue that he is the true inspiration behind this story. You will also experience the growth of love that, different from most love stories, blossoms from familial obligation, through friendship and shared values, and finally to true love.

    A Long Petal of the Sea will break your heart and then repair it in glorious, poetic fashion.