Choosing four books for someone that’s been a lifelong reader is something akin to torture. But eventually, it was an interesting exercise, as long as I didn’t think too much chose instinctively. What do the first titles that come to mind say about you?
Piranesi, by Susanna Clark
Piranesi’s house is no ordinary building: its rooms are infinite, its corridors endless, its walls are lined with thousands of statues. Within the labyrinth of halls, an ocean is imprisoned and secrets must be uncovered.
Piranesi is a mesmerising and enigmatic novel that immerses readers in the labyrinthine world of the House. Through the complex protagonist, Clarke’s prose creates a vivid tapestry of wonder and awe. The story explores solitude, identity, and the quest for meaning, delving into the mysteries of the House. With beautifully drawn characters, subtle yet profound interactions, and a deep sense of mystery, Piranesi is a thought-provoking read that rewards patience and curiosity. The meticulous attention to detail makes this book a great work of art.
Summer Light, and Then Comes the Night, by Jón Kalman Stefánsson
This one is a lyrical and introspective novel that beautifully captures the essence of human existence. Set against the backdrop of Iceland, the story follows a group of characters as they navigate their joys, sorrows, and the complexities of life.
Stefánsson’s poetic prose evokes a sense of wonder and melancholy, drawing readers into a world filled with raw emotions and existential reflections. The novel is a meditative exploration of love, loss, and the ever-present presence of the night.
A four hundred souls village becomes a microcosm of the conflict between human desire and destiny, between the limits of reality and the wings of the imagination.
The Florios of Sicily, by Stefania Auci
Beautifully written, impossible to put down, the powerful Florios of Sicily are alive on every page. For lovers of historical fiction, this book is a blessing, a saga of power, passion, and revenge, the rise and fall of a family taps into the desire to become more than who we were when we were born.
The novel, based on the true history of the uncrowned kings of Sicily, has the power to transport readers to the vibrant and tumultuous world of 19th-century Sicily. Through richly drawn characters and meticulous attention to historical detail, the author brings to life the opulence, intrigue, and challenges faced by the Florios in a bygone era.
Twice Born, by Margaret Mazzantini
Twice Born is a touching and evocative novel that explores love, loss, and the lingering impact of war. Through Gemma’s journey in war-torn Sarajevo, Mazzantini’s prose captures the raw emotions and complexities of human connections.
The narrative seamlessly weaves together past and present, delving into the profound effects of trauma and the resilience of the human spirit. The authentic characters delve into themes of identity and motherhood.
The storytelling and thought-provoking read linger in my heart long after the final page.
Featured image: Summer Light, and Then Comes the Night, by Jón Kalman Stefánson / Italian version