"When the Horses Came" by Amanda Cockrell is an extraordinary historical novel set in the rural town of Oconee, Georgia, during World War II. It tells the story of Josie and her family as they navigate the challenges brought about by the arrival of German prisoners of war to their community.
Cockrell skillfully captures the atmosphere of war-torn America, providing a vivid portrayal of the struggles faced by both the townspeople and the prisoners themselves. Through her descriptive prose and heartfelt storytelling, she explores themes of fear, prejudice, and the power of empathy.
The novel is primarily narrated through the perspective of Josie, a young and inquisitive girl. Her voice offers a view into the innocence of childhood, as well as the complexities of growing up amidst the chaos of war. As Josie develops a connection with one of the German prisoners, she learns valuable lessons about friendship and the importance of looking beyond stereotypes.
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Cockrell's writing is captivating and poignant. She masterfully creates three-dimensional characters and immerses readers in the time period, allowing them to fully engage with the story while also prompting moments of reflection.
Overall, "When the Horses Came" is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that highlights the significance of understanding, compassion, and digging deeper beneath the surface. Cockrell's storytelling prowess shines throughout, making it a must-read for fans of historical fiction and anyone interested in delving into the human experience during times of war.
What are readers saying?
When the Horses Came by Amanda Cockrell has received a mix of reviews from readers. This historical fiction novel delves into the impact of the Civil War on a small town in Georgia. While some readers praised the well-developed characters and intriguing plot, others felt that the story moved at a slow pace and lacked emotional depth.
Many reviewers appreciated the depth and authenticity of the characters in the book. They found themselves emotionally invested in the lives of the main character, Lottie, and her family. Cockrell's attention to detail and the intricacy of her characters brought a sense of relatability to the story. Readers particularly enjoyed the portrayal of friendships and relationships, which added an extra layer of complexity to the narrative.
However, some readers felt that the story unfolded too slowly. They found the pacing leisurely and it hindered their enjoyment of the book. Additionally, a few reviewers commented on the lack of emotional depth, noting that they struggled to connect with the characters on a more profound level.
The historical aspect of the novel also received mixed reviews. While some readers appreciated the author's accurate portrayal of the Civil War era and its societal impact, others felt that the historical backdrop was underdeveloped and didn't contribute significantly to the overall story. These readers were seeking more exploration of the historical events and their effects on the characters' lives.
In terms of writing style, Cockrell's prose generally received positive feedback. Many reviewers applauded her descriptive style, which brought the setting and atmosphere of the story to life. However, a few readers found the writing overly simplistic or lacking complexity.
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