I found this book very moving. The author did an excellent job getting us into the minds and hearts of the characters. The struggles of the people to hold onto their heritage, the old ways, the songs, the stories, the respect of nature and life, especially of the whales and creatures of the sea, touched me.
There is a lot of sadness in the story but there is also a lot of strength and wisdom in the people overcoming their sadness.
Not many of us have a heritage we can go back to... generations who left us stories and customs we can pass along. We are surface people. Things around us change too rapidly.
I was not initially enthusiastic about this book when I read the description, because it seemed like it would be depressing. However, you are right that though there is a lot of sadness, there is also the strength, wisdom, and courage to compensate for it.
It was beautifully written and seemed to capture the essences of each character. The women were strong and active, though flawed, which is also a refreshing change.
I also like the emphasis on heritage and connection to nature. I think many people are missing that sense of family history today, which isn't necessarily a bad thing, since a lot of family baggage also comes with it, but is a loss.
The only parts I was really upset about is when they killed Ruth's dog out of spite and when they killed the juvenile whale. I understand the purpose in the story, but I heartily dislike it when animals die.
2 comments:
I found this book very moving. The author did an excellent job getting us into the minds and hearts of the characters. The struggles of the people to hold onto their heritage, the old ways, the songs, the stories, the respect of nature and life, especially of the whales and creatures of the sea, touched me.
There is a lot of sadness in the story but there is also a lot of strength and wisdom in the people overcoming their sadness.
Not many of us have a heritage we can go back to... generations who left us stories and customs we can pass along. We are surface people. Things around us change too rapidly.
I am glad I chose this book to read.
I was not initially enthusiastic about this book when I read the description, because it seemed like it would be depressing. However, you are right that though there is a lot of sadness, there is also the strength, wisdom, and courage to compensate for it.
It was beautifully written and seemed to capture the essences of each character. The women were strong and active, though flawed, which is also a refreshing change.
I also like the emphasis on heritage and connection to nature. I think many people are missing that sense of family history today, which isn't necessarily a bad thing, since a lot of family baggage also comes with it, but is a loss.
The only parts I was really upset about is when they killed Ruth's dog out of spite and when they killed the juvenile whale. I understand the purpose in the story, but I heartily dislike it when animals die.
Good choice, B.
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