Yes, You....
What a wonderful, enriching and though-provoking novel! I can't imagine a more clever premise, or a better choice for a book club this year. While I read it on my own, I am so thankful I have passed it along to others who have since read and loved it, because there is so much to talk about and share!
While the main focus of the story centers around the narrator's father's candid diaries of his transformation (for lack of a better word) from SS officer to devoted Jew, the thematic focus was less on how the reader would feel about this and more on how his son deals with these revelations. One of the most prevalent themes in this novel, which any reader can relate to, is the idea of having a secret and whether those around you know, avoid/deny knowing, or have "clues" about the secret or even the fact one exists. Indeed, the most interesting part of the modern-day storyline was the chapter in which the narrator examines whether he "knew" all along. He clearly didn't suspect as a child that his father was a former Nazi, but rather, whether he suspected growing up that things weren't always what they seemed.
I would have preferred the story to have had more of the father's diaries and his storyline and much less of the narrator's modern-day storyline, although it worked well and was a fast, compelling read nonetheless.
I HIGHLY recommend this novel to everyone who has ever had a secret, learned of a secret, or told a secret (which bascially includes everyone). I look forward to reading more from such a talented writer. I also highly recommend "The Book Thief" and think the two books really compliement each other.
