Books matching: italian resistance
5 result(s)
- #1
Set in Northern Italy during World War II, 'A Thread of Grace' by Mary Doria Russell follows the stories of Jewish refugees fleeing occupied France and seeking shelter in Italy. The novel delves into the Italian Resistance's efforts to protect and hide the Jews from the Nazis, showcasing the courage and sacrifices made by ordinary Italian citizens. Through a wide array of characters and intricate plot lines, Russell skillfully weaves a gripping narrative that captures the complexities of war and the resilience of the human spirit.
The writing style in 'A Thread of Grace' is praised for its historical accuracy and compassionate storytelling. Russell's meticulous research and attention to detail bring authenticity to the characters' experiences, allowing readers to empathize with their struggles and triumphs. The book offers a poignant portrayal of love, hope, separation, horror, and redemption amidst the backdrop of wartime Italy, shedding light on a lesser-known chapter of World War II history.
A small crowd gathers to appreciate the spectacle: a Waffen-SS officer, thin, fortyish, and liquored up. He props his hands against his knees, coughing harder. “La basilica!” he gasps, remembering the... - #2
Beneath a Scarlet Sky is a captivating historical novel based on the true story of Pino Lella, a young Italian who finds himself thrust into the heart of World War II. The book follows Pino's journey from a naive teenager to a courageous hero as he navigates through the horrors of the war, from escorting Jews across the Alps to becoming a spy for the Allies. The plot weaves together themes of love, sacrifice, and resilience against the backdrop of the Italian resistance movement, offering readers a unique perspective on a lesser-known aspect of WWII. The writing style, though varying in opinions, is praised for its ability to bring Pino's story to life, drawing readers into the emotional rollercoaster of his experiences.
Like all the pharaohs, emperors, and tyrants before him, Il Duce had seen his empire rise only to crumble. Indeed, by that late-spring afternoon, power was bleeding from Benito Mussolini’s grasp like ... - #3
'The Path to the Spiders' Nests' by Italo Calvino is a novel set during World War II, focusing on the Italian resistance movement. The story follows Pin, a young boy living with his prostitute sister, who gets involved with the resistance after stealing a pistol from a German soldier. Through Pin's perspective, the novel explores the chaos of war, the complexities of human nature, and the blurred lines between sides in conflict. Calvino's writing style in this debut novel is straightforward and realistic, offering a cynical view of humanity seen through the eyes of a confused child.
Down they plunge, the sun’s rays, past windows dotted at random over the walls, and plants of basil and oregano in cooking-pots on the sills, and underwear hung out to dry; right down they go until th... - #4
Set in Italy during the end of World War II, "The Girl from Venice" by Martin Cruz Smith is a historical thriller that follows the protagonist, Cenzo, a fisherman who discovers a young Jewish refugee named Giulia hiding from the Nazis. As their fates become intertwined, Cenzo falls in love with Giulia, leading them on a journey from a sleepy fishing village to Venice, Salo, and Switzerland. The novel captures the disintegrating fascist state in Italy as the Allies advance, showcasing a mix of romance, suspense, and historical context.
The narrative delves into the complexities of wartime Italy, highlighting the struggles of the characters against a backdrop of political turmoil and personal dilemmas. Through the eyes of Cenzo and Giulia, the story explores themes of love, resistance, collaboration, and survival amidst the atrocities of World War II. The writing style is praised for its blend of heartwarming romance, well-crafted characters, and insights into the historical period, making it a compelling and engaging read.
Without a moon, small islands disappeared and Venice sank into the dark. Stars, however, were so brilliant that Cenzo felt drawn to them, even as mud oozed between his toes. The faint report of church... - #5
Eric Newby's 'Love and War in the Apennines' is a memoir that recounts his experiences during World War II, from being captured by the Germans in Sicily to becoming a prisoner of war in Italy. The narrative follows Newby's escape into the hills where he is sheltered by Italian partisans, falls in love with an Italian nurse, and ultimately gets recaptured. The book captures the hardships of war, the kindness of strangers, and Newby's journey of love and survival in the Apennines.
Newby's writing style is described as immediate and affecting, with a limpid flow that sweeps readers along like a mountain stream. The memoir is praised for its heartfelt storytelling, detailing Newby's wartime escapades, his interactions with the villagers who helped him, and the emotional journey that culminates in finding love amidst the chaos of war.