The Book of Lost Friends

3.5 * rounded up.

This book is not what I expected it to be, but then again, I'm not sure what I expected from it in the first place. It's a book that's entirely devoted to telling the truth of one group and pointing out the flaws in another and how both are connected.

The compelling storytelling jumping between two different characters a century apart every chapter can be jarring; the flow of the story is told in such a way that the payoff, I think, at least, is worth it. You're able to follow Hannie on her adventure through times that I don't envy living through, and Benny through times that are unfortunately all still too relevant for only have been placed 30-40 years ago. It's fascinating to see how everything is connected, how by acknowledging the past, you can begin to understand and appreciate the present (and the future).

There's definitely themes here are will ruminate in my head over time. I think this book is one that will stay with me for a while.