Suffer the Little Children : Book Review

"Suffer the Little Children" is a gripping crime novel penned by Donna Leon. Set against the backdrop of the enchanting city of Venice, the story follows the renowned protagonist, Commissario Guido Brunetti, as he unravels the mysterious death of a young boy. Through its atmospheric setting and intricate plot, the book offers an enthralling exploration of corruption and deception lurking within Italian society.

The novel kicks off with the unsettling discovery of a young girl's body floating in one of Venice's canals. As Brunetti dives deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a shocking underground network of illegal activities involving influential figures who will go to great lengths to safeguard their secrets. Leon expertly weaves a complex tapestry of characters and motives, ensuring that the reader remains utterly captivated by the unfolding story.

One of the novel's greatest strengths lies in Leon's ability to vividly depict the essence of Venice. Her intricate descriptions breathe life into the city, capturing both its unique beauty and its seedy underbelly. These detailed portrayals transport readers directly into the heart of Venice, immersing them in the story's atmosphere.

Another highlight is the character of Commissario Guido Brunetti himself. With his strong sense of morality and introspective nature, Brunetti proves to be a remarkably relatable and compelling protagonist. Throughout the narrative, Leon deftly showcases his internal struggles, imbuing the story with depth and emotional resonance.

Beyond being a thrilling crime novel, "Suffer the Little Children" serves as a thought-provoking exploration of societal issues. Leon employs the crime as a lens to examine corruption and the abuse of power within Italian institutions, shedding light on the darker side of society and prompting essential contemplation on matters of justice and morality.

What are readers saying?

Donna Leon's book, "Suffer the Little Children," has garnered mixed reviews from readers. This thrilling crime novel is part of the Commissario Guido Brunetti series and delves into the depths of corruption and secret societies.

Some reviewers were captivated by Leon's writing style and the intricacies of the plot. They praised her ability to vividly describe Venice and its cultural nuances, as well as her well-developed characters. Many readers found the mystery engaging and appreciated the realistic depiction of social issues like child exploitation. These readers also commended the author's attention to detail and her skill in weaving multiple storylines together.

However, others felt that the pacing of the book was slow, lacking in action and suspense. They found the plot to be predictable and devoid of surprises. Some readers also criticized the book for lengthy discussions on social issues, feeling that it detracted from the overall enjoyment. Furthermore, these readers were disappointed with the lack of character development and dissatisfaction with the ending.

Despite the mixed reviews, many readers admired Donna Leon's accurate portrayal of Italian bureaucracy and the inner workings of the police force. They appreciated her empathetic and insightful exploration of sensitive subjects. Some reviewers also noted the book's ability to raise important questions about justice and societal responsibility.

In summary, "Suffer the Little Children" by Donna Leon has elicited a range of responses from readers. While some found the book engaging, praising the writing style, plot, and social commentary, others were disappointed by the slow pacing, lack of suspense, and predictable plot. Overall, readers commended the author's ability to shed light on important social issues and accurately depict Italian society.

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