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Book Review
Jul. 5th, 2011 08:35 pmAll Clear
by Connie Willis
This novel is the second half of the story begun in Blackout, and it was just as gripping as its predecessor. The plot threads introduced towards the end of Blackout reach a climax and then resolve in very unexpected ways that create a beautiful, emotional conclusion. Along the way Willis gives us intense glimpses into civilian contributions to WWII, often humorous looks at the campaign of deception the Allies waged against the Nazis, and even an amusing cameo appearance by Alan Turing. There are partings, reunions, sacrifices, mischief, patience, and heroism aplenty. It's a gorgeous book, and I would say more about the story, but I don't want to get spoilery. Willis's characters are so vivid, her ability to evoke a place and time so expert, and her sense for plot and pacing so perfect that I was pretty much glued to the book, always wanting to find out what happened next.
Blackout and All Clear together produce a powerful look not just at one of the most significant parts of 20th century history, but also at the nature of heroism and heroes, and at the potential importance of small acts as well as large ones. She explores the big questions about history and everyone's part in it.
by Connie Willis
This novel is the second half of the story begun in Blackout, and it was just as gripping as its predecessor. The plot threads introduced towards the end of Blackout reach a climax and then resolve in very unexpected ways that create a beautiful, emotional conclusion. Along the way Willis gives us intense glimpses into civilian contributions to WWII, often humorous looks at the campaign of deception the Allies waged against the Nazis, and even an amusing cameo appearance by Alan Turing. There are partings, reunions, sacrifices, mischief, patience, and heroism aplenty. It's a gorgeous book, and I would say more about the story, but I don't want to get spoilery. Willis's characters are so vivid, her ability to evoke a place and time so expert, and her sense for plot and pacing so perfect that I was pretty much glued to the book, always wanting to find out what happened next.
Blackout and All Clear together produce a powerful look not just at one of the most significant parts of 20th century history, but also at the nature of heroism and heroes, and at the potential importance of small acts as well as large ones. She explores the big questions about history and everyone's part in it.
