For Christmas last year, Ethan's cousin Tara sent us a book called The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett. I had never heard about it before, but she really encouraged me to read it since it is set in midieval England.I am so glad that she did.
This book is an epic novel, and is close to 1,000 pages long. Before I began reading, I have to admit, I was a little doubtful that it would hold my interest. But truthfully, I was hooked on page one.
The story is set in England, and spans from the early to late 1100s. It follows the lives of multiple main characters including a master-builder of a cathedral, a prior, an earl's daughter, and the ever-so-evil William Hamliegh. There are many plots throughout the novel, but the main plot revolves around the building of a cathedral. The story truly does have it all: violence, sex, love, integrity, injustice, etc.
What I especially appreciated was how this book has changed my perspective towards the wonderful sights that I am currently so priveledged to live near: castles, abbeys, cathedrals. I can better imagine the work and effort that went into building these landmarks, and the villages that sprung up near them to supply the workforce.
I would definitely recommend this book, especially to my American friends here in England. I have already lent it to a friend, but if you're interested in reading it, let me know, and I'll mail it to you.
3 comments:
I've heard this is an excellent novel. I'll have to put it on my list!
I read that book back in college. I love Ken Follett! He also wrote a bunch of other books but one of my favorites is called The Third Twin...I recommend that one highly! :) I may just have to reread Pillars oF The Earth!
Ladies, This one was excellent, but please STAY AWAY from his sequel, World Without End. It has none of the charm and history, and it ramps up the vulgarity, repulsiveness, violence and evil. It was depressing. K?
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