A Hidden Life
Title: A Hidden Life
Author: Adele Geras
Publisher: Orion
Rating: 5/5
In the opening of A Hidden Life by Adele Geras, Lou Barrington is one of several family members gathered at her grandmother's massive estate to hear the reading of her will. Unbeknownst to all of them, Constance Barrington changed her will just prior to her death, leaving little to some and much to others. Lou, the only blood grandchild, has inherited the seemingly worthless copyrights to the mostly forgotten books her grandfather, John Barrington, authored.
As much as Lou feels snubbed by her grandmother, she is not surprised. Lou was the only family member her grandfather ever showed any interest in, including his wife and son. He would read from his books to Lou, who was fascinated by them. His first book, "Blind Moon" told the story of a young boy interred with his sickly mother in a Japanese concentration camp in North Borneo. It is from these sets of circumstances, as well as from this book (a book within a book) that the unique storyline progresses.
I love books about books. I love books with interesting plots and well-written dialog that makes you want to read without interruption. A Hidden Life has all of this. The characters are well-drawn and interesting, and their intricate relationships are handled with great care and feeling. The story behind "Blind Moon" interested me so much, I wanted to read the book!
The book will be available in early August. I encourage everyone to read it!
Sounds interesting!
Thanks for the review.
Posted by: 3M | July 04, 2007 at 07:13 PM
You're welcome, 3M - it is a wonderful book.
Posted by: Ex Libris | July 04, 2007 at 07:32 PM
That sounds wonderful and I love the fact that the cover has a wall of books and is awash in light, both of which add appeal to the description. Thanks for a terrific review!
Posted by: Nancy, aka Bookfool | July 05, 2007 at 05:08 PM
Sounds great - I think I'll have to add this one to my wishlist!
Posted by: Lesley | July 05, 2007 at 10:53 PM
Well, I tried, but it's not showing up on Amazon. Does your ARC indicate whether it'll be published in the US or is it UK-only for now?
Posted by: Lesley | July 05, 2007 at 10:55 PM
Nancy: You're welcome!
Lesley: According to the press release, the book is scheduled to be published in the UK by Orion on August 8, 2007. Their website is www.orionbooks.co.uk.
Posted by: Ex Libris | July 06, 2007 at 05:26 AM
I will definately look into this... well written entry, also... I've been away for a while, but I am back now... will visit moreo often now.
Posted by: JCR | July 08, 2007 at 10:50 AM
Coming late to this review but wanted to say that I'll definitely be adding it to my Christmas wish list based on your recommendation - it sounds right up my street. Thanks.
Posted by: Emily | December 05, 2007 at 06:03 AM
im in the middle of reading this i started it 2 days ago and im already up to the end of chapter 6 whcih is odd for me i love it so much i recommend it to everyone!!!!!
Posted by: Nicole | April 21, 2008 at 11:51 PM