A Long Petal of the Sea by Isabel Allende
These days when we are so uncertain about the future and have extra time in our homes. It’s not a bad thing to give us time to read those books we have been trying to get to, or even try books that weren’t on our reading list. That’s what happened to me with this book.
This literary work by Isabel Allende came to me thanks to a book club. Often times these kinds of novels aren’t my cup of tea, and I only read them as part of some book club. I particularly have other literary preferences. I must admit that the novels they choose in the different reading clubs to which I have belonged, have not let me down. On the contrary, they are an escape from my regular interests and most of the time they give me a big surprise. In addition to avoiding the work of doing research regarding which novel would be good to read? These clubs have saved me time and offered readings that turned out very satisfying.
This past Spring, our book club was supposed to meet and discuss this book by the renowned author Isabel Allende “A Long Petal of the Sea.” Although this event didn’t happen because of Covid-19 I read it and was very pleased with it. This reading, like most of her work, was excellent. A Long Petal of Sea is a novel that thanks to the main characters took me on a trip to Spain, then Chile, then Venezuela to finally return to what they considered their home. Many times, our home is not the place where we were born and raised but rather where we develop as human beings, professionally and personally.
This book brought me back memories of some well-known names such as; Salvador Allende, Pablo Neruda, Víctor Jara, and Augusto Pinochet. As well as a remarkable account on the Winnipeg. The French ship that arrived in Valparaiso with Spanish refugees who were fleeing Franco’s power during the Spanish civil war. This reading shows historical events intertwined exquisitely with the protagonists resulting in a fantastic story of resilience, courage, and love.
Without giving many details about this fascinating reading, to avoid spoiling surprises for the reader. I leave you with this book recommendation to spend time more calmly. If we can’t physically transport ourselves where we want to be, we can do it wonderfully through books.
Happy Reading!
Yanira K. Wise, September, 2020
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A long Petal of the Sea by Isabel Allende
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South America seems to refuse to show its inexhaustible creative force.
