THE BOOK FAIR

Review:

John Hershey’s Pulitzer Prize winning novel portrays Major Victor Joppolo, who during the occupation of Italy, administers the town of Adano, in 1943. Aside from politics in the military, the novel, sensitive and beautifully written, offers a study of character and culture.

 

Major Victor Joppolo, the AMGOT officer (Allied Military Occupied Government Territory), a man of integrity and of Italian decent, lands in Italy with the American invasion.  The Americans witness the destruction in the town, including dead bodies in the roads.

The town leaders greet Joppolo and insist they were never fascists.  Joppolo informs them they need not lie.  The Major, soon known as Mister Major, asks what the town needs and learns about the town bell, historic to the town that the Fascists took some weeks before.

Impressed by their request for a bell, the Major, sets out on a quest, to locate a bell, for the town.  In addition, the major also deals with securing food and water for the town.

On his way to Adano, a mule cart slows General Marvin’s armored car.  In Marvin’s uncontrolled rage, he has the peasant’s cart ditched with his possessions, and his mule shot.   Once in Adano, Marvin meets with Joppolo and informs him there will be no more mule carts allowed on the roads.  After the townspeople protest, Joppolo overrides Marvin’s order.  

Major Joppolo addresses all needs of the town and through favors, secures a new bell, a gift for the townspeople.   The townspeople adore Joppolo and plan a party to express their respect, admiration, and gratitude for his dedication.

 

ENDING:

General Marvin learns that Major Joppolo did not enforce the mule cart order.  Marvin subsequently orders Joppolo’s immediate transfer from Adano.

Major Joppolo confesses goodbyes would be too difficult.  As his jeep rolls out of town, the newly acquired bell of Adano tolls.

 

Beautifully written.  Highly recommended.