Ben Marcus's books The Age of Wire and String and Notable American Women were considered "experimental" fiction because of his unconventional use of...
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I got my first copy of this fictional book 14 years ago recommended by my sister and have since read it several times over. Isabel Allende draws you into the generational tale of the Trueba family who in many ways are relatable. Its set in during the political face change of a nation moving painfully into the "modern" world while grasping when able to the pride of the past. The emotions and familial sagas that are revealed in this story have the ability to hit personal chords unexpectedly. Here I first learned of the writing style called magical realism. Does Rosa the beautiful really have green hair? It sure made me pause and imagine just how beautiful that might be. I connected with Clara and applauded her inner goodness, silent struggles (literally) and ultimately her innocent, sincere self. And even Esteban with his "macho" borderline tyrannical ways won me over. It caught me from the start and has not let go. If you are looking for a bite of history, the transparency of human experience and a revelation of deep felt family connections this is a great choice to make! Take some time, kick back with some cafe con leche and soak up the goodness found in this tale.
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The House of the Spirits by Isabel Allende
jcinoregon, January 26, 2007
I got my first copy of this fictional book 14 years ago recommended by my sister and have since read it several times over. Isabel Allende draws you into the generational tale of the Trueba family who in many ways are relatable. Its set in during the political face change of a nation moving painfully into the "modern" world while grasping when able to the pride of the past. The emotions and familial sagas that are revealed in this story have the ability to hit personal chords unexpectedly. Here I first learned of the writing style called magical realism. Does Rosa the beautiful really have green hair? It sure made me pause and imagine just how beautiful that might be. I connected with Clara and applauded her inner goodness, silent struggles (literally) and ultimately her innocent, sincere self. And even Esteban with his "macho" borderline tyrannical ways won me over. It caught me from the start and has not let go. If you are looking for a bite of history, the transparency of human experience and a revelation of deep felt family connections this is a great choice to make! Take some time, kick back with some cafe con leche and soak up the goodness found in this tale.(5 of 10 readers found this comment helpful)