118)? To what extent are their reactions shaped by their nationalities, political beliefs, or personal histories? Why does Andras agree to infiltrate the meeting of Le Grand Occident (pp. 48-50) and the spate of vandalism against Jewish students (p. Why do Andras and his friends at the ecole Speciale tolerate the undercurrent of anti-Semitism at the school even after the verbal attack on Eli Polaner (pp. What does the opening chapter establish about the cultural and social milieu of prewar Budapest? What do Andras's reactions to the Hasz household reveal about the status of Jews within the larger society? How do the differences between the Hasz and Levi families affect their assumptions and behavior during the war? Which scenes and characters most clearly demonstrate the tensions within the Jewish community?Ģ. Recommend for book clubs that enjoy a more literary read.ġ. This is also a wonderful love story and one that demonstrates the warmth and strength of strong family bonds. The changes in life style and living conditions were initially not all consuming either giving a false sense of security, or perhaps showing the nature of mankind to cast aside what seems illogical. It also shows how the reality and truth of the war set in gradually, causing alarm but not necessarily fear. More than other books I've read on this subject, this book demonstrates the impact on ordinary working people. It's poignant and beautiful and as with most Holocaust subjects - heartbreaking. The characters and the sense of time and place are beautifully drawn - literally transporting you back to this time period. It's unusual as it shows Hungary's role in the war, not well covered in novels. It's also not your typical Holocaust novelīook Club Talking Points: This is a stunning debut novel set in Paris and Hungary, highlighting the time period from just before the start of WWII through its end. At 600 pages it a big book that is repetitive at times and slow in parts but one that will haunt you.

The bonds of family and friendship are strong this makes reading about failed dreams and stolen lives very personal and emotional. The characters are fully developed and multi dimensional.

The women left behind suffered shortages of food and supplies. Late in the war the men were forced into labor camps, and suffered intolerable deprivation. Hungary supported Hitler but did not initially deport its Jews and allowed them to work. The book brings to light the alliance Hungary formed with Nazi Germany. As the story follows Andras, his family and friends, the events that unfold will haunt you. The year is 1937 - social views and laws are on the precipice of change and war is looming in the background. Andras Levi, Hungarian and Jewish wins a scholarship to study architecture in Paris. PBR Book Review: (by- Linda ) This is an amazing first novel, an epic tale of love, friendship, family and hardship.

The invisible bridge by julie orringer