Every time I hear the title, World Without End, I immediately think: James Bond movie! But um, no. There is no such James Bond film by this name. Instead we’re talking about this massive (1024-page) novel that yours truly just happened to finish. I’ll be honest, it took me awhile. I’m a slow reader, first of all, and second, it’s one of those that takes a few pages before you’re *in it.* But once you’re *in it,* oh boy.
World Without End is a book for anyone who likes to read. Your boyfriend, girlfriend, or spouse will like it. Your parents will like it. You will like it. It’s got action, politics, romance. It’s got architecture (huh? stay with me). And mostly, it’s got history. The story takes place in 14th-century England, in the town of Kingsbridge, where two centuries earlier, in the fantastic prequel you will also have to read someday, Pillars of the Earth, a grand cathedral was built.
I’m making this sound terribly simple and boring, but trust me. Just a few pages in and you will be dying to know whether Merthin Builder and Caris Wooler will be together forever. You’ll root for Gwenda, who’s not the cutest girl in town, but is determined to win her crush, Wulfric. You’ll wonder what exactly is Caris’ “destiny.” Is Godwyn smart, or really just a giant tool? What is wrong with Ralph, why is he so disgusting and cruel. And what will become of Philemon. Not to mention Thomas!
Now you probably think I’m talking about hobbits. But no, no, they’re people, and these are their names, however weird. And their lives are just seriously fascinating to watch unfold. Read it. I’m sure the library has a copy, or if you’re really nice to me, I’ll let you borrow mine.
Hurray for books!
4 tips left at the bar:
Wow, that's one looong book, Pen! Even though HP comprises the longest books I've read in a while, I'm up for a challenge! (I have read Roots, though, does that count? It's looong!)
*This may get passed along to my husband first.*
This isn't a book. It's a long-term commitment. But I trust you. ;)
Pen, "Pillars of the Earth" is on my Top 5 Favorite Books of All Time. I've read it 3 times, listened to it on tape on countless roadtrips, and I'm rereading it now so that I can then jump into this one. Thanks for the endorsement. And you're not lyin' - these books have everything you want in a great story!
Yay! PotE is one of my Top 5 Favs of All Time, too! I had it assigned for a summer college course that took place in England, and we visited the cathedrals at Canterbury and Salisbury to go along with the book... experiences I'll associate with the story forever.
You'll (all) really like World Without End, promise. :)
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