The Lovers

Finished June 10

The Lovers by Paolo Cognetti, translated by Stash Luczkiw

This novel is set in an unnamed time, but it doesn't mention technology that we use today like cellphones and internet, so it feels pre-1990s. Fausto is in his 40s and freshly divorced. He has left his home in Milan for solace in the mountains, renting a small home in the alpine village of Fontana Fredda. After some time spent hiking and trying to write, he is running low on funds and takes a job in a seasonal restaurant someone going through a similar life change ran. The other cook trained him, and he found himself liking the job. He also found himself attracted to a young waitress and he finds that she likes him as well and they begin a relationship. We watch as the work their way through the seasons, part and reunite and work out some of the questions they each have.

I can see why this novel was a bestseller, even though it is slow-paced and quiet. It has a real sense of place, and is understated. Thanks to the bookstore Mr.B's in choosing it for me. 

A Whole Life

Finished January 8
A Whole Life by Robert Seethaler, translated by Charlotte Collins

This short novel the man Andreas Egger from childhood through his life. Andreas came to the village in the Austrian alps in 1902 as a small boy. His mother was dying and sent him to live with his uncle Hubert Kranzstocker, who only took him in reluctantly. One of the regular beatings from his uncle resulted in a badly broken leg that didn't set properly. He was a quiet boy, who worked hard. When he turned eighteen and finally rebelled from his uncle's punishments, he left the farm and began to pick up work from others around the village. He grew up to be a strong man, mostly silent, but honest and dependable. The story of his life takes us through happiness and sorrow, war and peace, love and loss.  The mountains he lives among play a big role in his life. This is a story of a man who accepted what life brought him, but took opportunities as they came. He's a man that one can empathize with. An everyman of a sort.