Monday, July 30, 2018

The Voices of Silence by Bel Mooney

Read a book that takes place in a country other than the United States.

Would you recommend this book? If so, who would you recommend it to, and why? If not, why not?

I would never have discovered this book had I not been traveling in Europe. The book takes place in Romania, during the time of Soviet control in 1989. It's about a girl named Flora, who has begun to notice the tension and silence surrounding people, and struggles to know who she can entirely trust. Her best friend from childhood? The kind new boy with his fancy Western treats? As the story unfolds, she comes to terms with all the things she's taken for granted, as well as the government she's never questioned. Not only is this book exciting, it is also fascinating to read about a time and place so different from our own. I would recommend this book to anyone curious about history, anyone who likes drama and action, and anyone who enjoys a satisfying, (although partially sad), conclusion. I am so glad I came upon this book.

Margot, 6th grade, Vassal Lane Upper School