THE BOOK FAIR

“The Shadow of the Wind”, (published in English in 2004) is the first novel in Carlos Ruiz Zafon’s series of, “The Cemetery of Forgotten Books.”  This first novel, a brilliant work of suspenseful plots and subplots, is filled with amazing, lively characters who offer a plentitude of memorable lines.

 

In the 1940’s post war Spain, Mr. Sempere and his son live above the bookstore they own in Barcelona.  Mr. Sempere introduces his son to the labyrinth library called The Cemetery of Forgotten Books.  He explains that those who read books forever remember certain phrases, lines, or characters, and that books, like people have a soul.  Daniel’s father tells him he may chose any book he wishes but that he will be the protector of the book.

 

Daniel chooses “The Shadow of the Wind”, by Julian Carax.  Daniel reads the book that evening and becomes fascinated with the author.  In his quest to learn about Julian Carax, Daniel discovers he possesses a rare and priceless book, a book that a shadowy and mysterious person seeks.

 

The novel of Daniel Sempere turns into a story within a story of Julian Carax.   Daniel befriends Fermin Romero de Torres, a man harboring a story of his own, who helps Daniel unravel the life of Julian Carax.

 

The exceptional novel delivers an intriguing storyline replete with unexpected twists and turns, full of believable, genuine, likeable characters and entertaining dialogue.