Year of Wonders: a novel of the plague by Geraldine Brooks
 |
Author: Geraldine Brooks Publisher: New York: Viking 2001 |
Inspired by the true story of Eyam, an English village, Year of Wonders is an elaborately detailed account of a singular, and unforgettable, historical period.
Set during the Black Death of 1666, this book tells the account of a village determined to quarantine themselves from the scourge of the bubonic plague. Believing that the Plague is a punishment from God, the desperate villagers turn to ancient herbal remedies, murder, witch-hunting, and religious fanaticism.
Told through the eyes of 18 year old Anna Frith, this is the story of a young woman witnessing death and the disintegration of her society, as well as standing at the crossroads of religion, propriety, and women's role in society.
A haunting - and at times deeply disturbing - examination of human behaviour in a time of panic. The non-linear structure is engaging, and the expressive style draws the reader in. Dramatic enough to distract you from any pandemic you may find yourself in.
The protagonist is inspirational, fierce, and intelligent - and given her time, it is both exciting and terrifying. This will appeal to New Adults because it is about a new adult, fighting fear during a time of quarantine, faced with social and political stress, and uncertainty about her own future.
The style will appeal to fans of more literary works, without alienating those who are new to lofty prose. And the attention to historical details will appeal to any history buff.
Comments
Post a Comment