Quando eravamo orfani : Book Review

"When We Were Orphans" by Kazuo Ishiguro is a captivating novel that takes place in the early 20th century, following the life of Christopher Banks, a renowned detective who lost his parents as a child. Set in Shanghai, the story revolves around Banks' obsession with unraveling the mystery of his parents' disappearance during his youth. However, as he delves deeper into his past and revisits his childhood memories, Banks realizes that uncovering the truth may not be as straightforward as he initially believed.

Ishiguro's writing style is both eloquent and haunting, drawing readers into Banks' world and blurring the boundaries between reality and imagination. The narrative skillfully alternates between Banks' present and his memories, evoking a sense of nostalgia and introspection. Through this technique, Ishiguro seamlessly weaves together themes of memory, identity, and the lasting impact of one's past on their present self.

The character development in "When We Were Orphans" is exceptional, particularly with Banks himself. As the story progresses, readers witness his emotional journey and the inner turmoil he experiences when confronted with the truth of his past. Ishiguro expertly captures the essence of Banks' psychological struggle, showcasing the complexities of self-deception and the fleeting nature of memory.

The novel's setting, primarily in Shanghai and London, adds depth and allure to the story. Ishiguro provides vivid descriptions of these cities, immersing readers in their historical and atmospheric richness. Against the backdrop of pre-World War II Shanghai, the narrative undeniably underscores the impact of political unrest on individual lives, creating a palpable sense of tension and uncertainty.

Overall, "When We Were Orphans" is a thought-provoking and exquisitely crafted novel that delves into the intricacies of memory, identity, and the relentless pursuit of truth. Ishiguro's masterful storytelling and compelling characters make this book a must-read for fans of historical fiction and psychological mysteries.

What are readers saying?

"Quando eravamo orfani" by Kazuo Ishiguro has garnered immense acclaim for its captivating narrative and thought-provoking themes. The book follows Christopher Banks, a renowned detective in London, who embarks on a journey to unravel the mystery surrounding his parents' disappearance in Shanghai during his childhood.

Critics have hailed the novel as a beautifully written masterpiece that seamlessly combines the genres of mystery and historical fiction. Ishiguro's skill in creating a vivid and atmospheric setting is lauded, transporting readers to both 1930s Shanghai and wartime England. The characters, particularly Christopher Banks, are praised for their depth and authenticity, captivating readers with their complex personalities.

Ishiguro's impeccable storytelling abilities are appreciated by readers, as he gradually unveils the layers of the mystery, keeping them engaged and intrigued until the very end. The novel presents profound reflections on memory, identity, and the forces that shape our lives, leaving readers with much to ponder.

The elegant and evocative writing style of Ishiguro is admired by many. His ability to delve into the psyche of his characters and craft powerful and poignant scenes is highly regarded. However, a few readers found the pacing to be slow in certain parts of the story, leading to a lack of engagement.

The emotional impact of "Quando eravamo orfani" is a recurring theme in the reviews. Readers express being deeply moved by the exploration of loss, grief, and the search for identity. Ishiguro's skill in evoking empathy and creating profound emotional connections with his characters is praised by several reviewers.

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