Are you a member of a book group? Are you looking for something to read? I suggest putting your name down at your local library for "Suite Francaise" by Irene Nemirovsky. However, you may need to wait awhile. In the mean time here is my brief synopsis (no spoilers): - Well known pre-WWII writer Irene Nemirovsky pens draft novel about the experience of civilians in occupied France.
- Novel is written as the events are occurring around her.
- Plans to write the novel in 5 parts (Storm in June, Dolce, Captivity, Battles, Peace?) and intends it to be France's answer to War and Peace.
- Completes the first two parts before being arrested and sent to Auschwitz where she dies.
- Her young daughters escape being transported and are in hiding throughout the war. They have with them a suitcase containing the novels which they never read (they think they are war diaries)
- In the 1990s they realise that her diaries are in fact a fully formed novel. Published novel wins Prix de Renodout in 2004 (first ever given posthumously).
- Remarkably, despite being of Jewish heritage & forced to wear the Star of David the novels are in no way about the experiences of Jews during the war.
This is a beautiful book, the highest rated ever in my Sydney book group.
1 comment:
The members of *The No.1 Melbourne Ladies' Bookclub* are very much looking forward to reading this one - we have it scheduled for August.
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