Now Read This: 'The Nightingale' by Kristen Hannah

Lately I've been pondering why there are so many books written about World War II -- both nonfiction and fiction. The library has hundreds of nonfiction books about the men and women who fought in the war, about the battles, strategies and consequences, about the terrible concentration camps, and then hundreds more historical fiction titles based on all of the above.

My current favorite novel, "All the Light We Cannot See" by Anthony Doerr, takes place during WW II, as does the title I am reviewing for this month, "The Nightingale" by Kristin Hannah. My favorite novel by Jodi Picoult, "The Storyteller," moves back and forth between present day and WW II. I wonder why so many authors write about that time and why so many of us readers choose to read their books? Is it because we are trying to make sense of all the atrocities that took place? Or could it be we need to remember so history does not repeat itself?

As to this month's recommendation, I spent a week in February traveling around the state -- Springfield, Blue Springs and Jefferson City -- which allowed me time to listen to "The Nightingale" in its entirety. It's set in France and follows the lives of two adult sisters, both of whom play a part in saving lives. The younger sister helps smuggle more than 200 British and American airmen out of Nazi-occupied France by leading them over the Pyrenees. The older sister saves 19 Jewish children who were destined for the concentration camps.

In so many ways, this is a heartbreaking story. Most of the Nazis in the story are so incredibly cruel. And, yet, there also is a strong element of the triumph of the human spirit and the ability to do good, the willingness to make a difference, even if it puts your very life at risk.

The narrator for the audiobook does a wonderful job of drawing you into the story. The library also owns two copies of the physical book.

If you enjoy Kristen Hannah's writing style, the library owns several of her other books: "Fly Away," "Firefly Lane" and "Home Front," to name a few. These deal with issues women have with their daughters, sisters and husbands. They are available both in hardback and audio editions.

Happy readings!

Betty Martin

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About Betty

Betty Martin is director of the Cape Girardeau Public Library.