Alma
The Wind Rises
Timothée de Fombelle author Holly James translator
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Europa Editions (UK) Ltd
Published:6th Oct '22
Should be back in stock very soon
In Alma, a young girl embarks on a perilous journey to rescue her brother, intertwining her fate with a thief aboard a slave ship.
In Alma, the narrative unfolds in 1786, following a young girl named Alma who lives with her family in a secluded African valley. Her idyllic life takes a drastic turn when her younger brother discovers a way out of their homeland. As Alma embarks on a quest to rescue him, she encounters numerous challenges that test her courage and determination. The story beautifully illustrates her journey from innocence to resilience, showcasing the strength of familial bonds and the indomitable spirit of a young girl.
Simultaneously, the tale intertwines with that of Joseph Mars, a petty thief who finds himself aboard the Douce Amélie, a slave ship in search of a legendary treasure. The ship's captain, Lazare Gardel, is also on a quest of his own, hunting for the fabled riches of the infamous pirate Luc de Lerne. As their paths converge, the dual narratives of Alma and Joseph create a rich tapestry of adventure and discovery, set against the backdrop of historical events that shape their fates.
Alma is more than just a tale of adventure; it is a poignant exploration of hope, perseverance, and love. Through the intertwining lives of its characters, the book delves into themes of heroism and the quest for freedom, making it a compelling read that resonates with audiences of all ages. The vivid storytelling and emotional depth ensure that readers are captivated from start to finish.
“Vivid and exact…this is a book about heroism.” * The New York Times *
“De Fombelle writes minimally for maximum effect . . . packs a punch.”
"An action-packed tale about heartbreak and resilience." * Publisher's Weekly *
"The attention to period detail is not incidental, given the explosive nature of the subject matter: the African slave trade and the Middle Passage to the French colonies. To some extent, the routine features of the adventure are in tension with the particular sorrows of the kidnapped... De Fombelle recognizes many of these agonies, and his succinct and devastating explanations of the customs of the slave trade powerfully animate the facts." * The New York Times Book Review *
“Beautiful writing, intricate plotting, and breathless reveals.”
"Breathtakingly readable." * Booklist (starred review) *
“Luminous . . . This uncompromising book sheds light on the violence in American society.” * ActuaLitté *
“Mixes the historical and the romantic in a dark whirlwind.”
ISBN: 9781787704015
Dimensions: unknown
Weight: unknown
352 pages