Google trend - All the Light We Cannot See

"All the Light We Cannot See" is a historical fiction novel written by Anthony Doerr. Set during World War II, the story follows the lives of two main characters, Marie-Laure LeBlanc and Werner Pfennig, whose paths eventually intertwine.

Marie-Laure is a young blind girl living in Paris with her father, who works as a locksmith at the Museum of Natural History. Her father constructs a miniature model of their neighborhood to help her navigate the city. As the war escalates, Marie-Laure and her father are forced to flee Paris and seek refuge in the coastal town of Saint-Malo, where her great-uncle Etienne lives.

Meanwhile, in Germany, Werner Pfennig grows up in an orphanage with his sister, Jutta. Werner is exceptionally intelligent and has a talent for fixing radios. His skills catch the attention of the Nazis, and he is sent to a prestigious school for Hitler Youth. Despite his initial excitement, Werner becomes disillusioned with the Nazi ideology and struggles with the moral implications of his actions.

As the war progresses, Marie-Laure's father is entrusted with a valuable diamond called the Sea of Flames, which is rumored to bring immortality but also carries a curse. He hides the diamond in a wooden replica and sends Marie-Laure to live with her great-uncle. Marie-Laure's great-uncle, Etienne, is haunted by his experiences in World War I and rarely leaves his house. He becomes a source of comfort and guidance for Marie-Laure during the difficult times.

Werner, now a soldier, is sent to Saint-Malo to track down illegal radio transmissions. During his search, he discovers a hidden radio transmitter in Etienne's house, which Marie-Laure uses to communicate with her great-uncle. Fascinated by Marie-Laure's voice, Werner becomes determined to protect her and her secret.

As the war reaches its climax, Saint-Malo becomes a battleground. Marie-Laure and her great-uncle are trapped in their house, while Werner faces the moral dilemma of whether to follow orders or protect innocent lives. The narrative alternates between their perspectives, building tension and highlighting the consequences of their choices.

Doerr's novel explores themes of humanity, morality, and the power of hope in the face of adversity. Through Marie-Laure's blindness, the author emphasizes the importance of inner strength and resilience. Despite her disability, Marie-Laure is resourceful and brave, navigating a world filled with darkness and uncertainty.

"All the Light We Cannot See" also delves into the destructive nature of war and the devastating impact it has on individuals and communities. It portrays the horrors of conflict through vivid descriptions and poignant character development. The novel challenges the reader to question the morality of war and the choices made by individuals caught in its midst.

In conclusion, "All the Light We Cannot See" is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that explores the complexities of human nature and the enduring power of hope. Through the lives of Marie-Laure and Werner, Anthony Doerr masterfully weaves together a tale of love, sacrifice, and the indomitable spirit of the human soul.