Review - Here In Berlin
Here In Berlin
by Cristina Garcia
release date 10/10/2017
224 pages
Chapter length: short
2 out 5 stars
I received this book through a giveaway hosted by Counterpoint LLC and GoodReads. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Here In Berlin provides the reader with snapshots of different aspects of post-war Berlin. Through the eyes of an unnamed 'Visitor,' we are introduced to a collection of unique characters, who provide us with their experiences during and after WWII. Through them, we learn about the many trials that the citizens of Berlin endured during the war, and how they have moved on with their lives since. It is not only a portrait of Berliners, but also of the city itself.
This book is classified as fiction, but it functions more like a collection of poetry or short stories. Each chapter focuses on a different character and their story, and reads rather disjointedly. There is not one main story line flowing throughout the book. This was the main reason for my low rating. Just as the author would start to really dive into one character's story, the chapter would abruptly end. It was hard to really get involved in a book where all character development stays at a surface level.
Despite this, the writing is truly excellent. Garcia is a skilled writer whose beautiful descriptions bring Berlin to life. While you might not have a good understanding of any of the characters, you will be able to get a good feel for the essence of Berlin and the dichotomous nature of the city, which is both very modern and entrenched in the past at the same time.
While I didn't love Here In Berlin, I think people who appreciate a sophisticated, unique writing style would enjoy this book.
If you are interested in reading this book, please consider using my link to purchase it from Amazon and help support Blonde Bibliotaph.
by Cristina Garcia
release date 10/10/2017
224 pages
Chapter length: short
2 out 5 stars
I received this book through a giveaway hosted by Counterpoint LLC and GoodReads. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Here In Berlin provides the reader with snapshots of different aspects of post-war Berlin. Through the eyes of an unnamed 'Visitor,' we are introduced to a collection of unique characters, who provide us with their experiences during and after WWII. Through them, we learn about the many trials that the citizens of Berlin endured during the war, and how they have moved on with their lives since. It is not only a portrait of Berliners, but also of the city itself.
This book is classified as fiction, but it functions more like a collection of poetry or short stories. Each chapter focuses on a different character and their story, and reads rather disjointedly. There is not one main story line flowing throughout the book. This was the main reason for my low rating. Just as the author would start to really dive into one character's story, the chapter would abruptly end. It was hard to really get involved in a book where all character development stays at a surface level.
Despite this, the writing is truly excellent. Garcia is a skilled writer whose beautiful descriptions bring Berlin to life. While you might not have a good understanding of any of the characters, you will be able to get a good feel for the essence of Berlin and the dichotomous nature of the city, which is both very modern and entrenched in the past at the same time.
While I didn't love Here In Berlin, I think people who appreciate a sophisticated, unique writing style would enjoy this book.
If you are interested in reading this book, please consider using my link to purchase it from Amazon and help support Blonde Bibliotaph.
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