All the Broken Places
Boyne, JohnGretel Fernsby was a young girl when her brother died in WWII, but now she is 91, a lifetime has passed, although the guilt and recriminations around Bruno's death remain. When a new family move into her London apartment building and their child is at risk, Gretel is forced to confront her distressing past if she is to prevent another tragedy from occurring.
.Written with sensitivity and insight, this is a stand-alone adult sequel to The Boy in Striped Pyjamas, the complex story of Gretel's life, its terrible secrets and her last chance for atonement.
Pages
367
367
Year
2022
2022
Reviews
05-08-2024
We loved this book and had a great discussion with differing opinions about the motives. So easy to read even though the content was uncomfortable at times.
05-08-2024
We agreed that it was a good read and an easy/fast read in spite of some tragic/dreadful scenes . A fascinating study of living with guilt and Gretels reactions to it. Both her parents guilt and her own. Moving from past to present required some attention but gave depth to the story. There was so much to discuss about guilt, shame, justice, grief and complicity. We discussed the issue of whether a 12 year old is responsible for the dreadful events going on over the fence and Gretels role in the death of her brother whose name she wouldnt say because of fear of breaking down.
18-07-2024
Most members loved it, and felt that it was thought-provoking. One especially appreciated how well the male writer had portrayed an old woman.
08-07-2024
We all enjoyed this one, thanks.
25-06-2024
Everyone enjoyed the book, enjoyed the fact that it was a sequel to 'The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas' albeit many years later. Gretel was a complex, manipulative woman who obviously struggled to "move on" from her past life.
27-05-2024
Everyone loved this book and found the plot's twists and turns masterly and riveting. Several group members have read it twice and found it even better, 2nd time around. Great discussion and highly recommended.
13-05-2024
Well written, gripping story, set in interesting places and at interesting times.
02-05-2024
A fabulous book. Beautifully written.
10-04-2024
Good discussion. Some people found it a bit slow to start but some couldn't put it down.
06-03-2024
Loved reading this novel. Great discussion on the guilt carried by an individual, and the pain they felt.
15-01-2024
Our group found the book 'compelling', very readable, and with lots of twists and surprises.
23-11-2023
An unforgettable book, enjoyed by our whole group. It was a journey through history and emotion which provoked much discussion - from early Jewish history, today's Israel/Gaza turmoil as well as the personal legacy of living with past actions. Best book this year.
04-10-2023
Loved it, everything beautifully tied in together, keep thinking about it. Generated lots of interesting discussion.
02-08-2023
Scores between 4 and 5. Thought-provoking and gripping, with an unexpected twist. Engaging and well-written.