The Shadow of the Wind

Mar 25, 2019Books, Nat2 comments

Who could not be drawn into Zafon’s atmospheric story with its dramatic opening chapter? Ten year-old Daniel is led through misty Barcelona streets in the early hours of the morning by his father.
 
“Daniel, you mustn’t tell anyone what you’re about to see” his father warns.
 
He takes him to the Cemetery of Forgotten Books and explains the tradition that Daniel may choose any book in the library, if he promises to adopt it and keep it alive. The book that Daniel is drawn to starts an unbelievable adventure, pulling him into a story which leaves him inextricably linked to its author.
 
The following twenty-one years chronicle his journey of curiosity, trying to establish who the forgotten author was and why no more copies of his book exist. Along the way he encounters love, the best friend he will ever make and several attempts on his life – All set in gothic Barcelona; described so clearly that you can picture the veil of darkness and the amber glow of the street lamps in your own mind.
 
The novel might seem lengthy and indulgent but the descriptions and complex cast enrich and deepen the reader’s experience. Zafon doesn’t just provide beautiful description though. The plot is clever and unpredictable, keeping the reader guessing right until the end. Themes of loyalty, grief, jealousy, true friendship and love weave throughout.
 
I would go so far as to call this book a masterpiece.  I heartily recommend the investment of time it takes to enjoy this most satisfying of literary feasts.
 
Nat, March 2019
 
 

2 Comments

  1. jkylegregory
    jkylegregory on April 9, 2019 at 9:09 am

    Wow, what a recommendation. It’s amazing how the great authors are able to weave the universals into their particulars. I wonder what you would say about how this book has changed you or your way of seeing things?

  2. Craig
    Craig on November 4, 2019 at 12:36 pm

    I have seen this in the book stores of Spain. Your words want me to dig into the story and the characters. I am left with the difficult choice. Either a slower read in the original or faster going in English. Any thoughts?

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