Lambrusco: A Novel [Paperback]

Ellen Cooney (Author)

Product Details

• Paperback
• Publisher: Pantheon (2008)
• ISBN-10: 0375424962
• ISBN-13: 978-0375424960
• ASIN: B001GBS7ES
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (6 customer reviews)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

4.0 out of 5 stars Take a sip of Lambrusco, November 13, 2009

By 

Rabid Reader (Near Niagara Falls, NY) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Lambrusco (Paperback)

I liked this novel.
At first I was put off by the first person point of view, but then I began to see that the novel was less about story than it was about character, and that the thoughts of the main character, talented singer Lucia Fantini, were intentionally scattered, with her memories rising to the surface of her consciousness just as bubbles might rise to the surface of a glass of Lambrusco.
There is a journey motif--not only Lucia's journey in search of her son--but also an internal journey, as Lucia begins to wrap her psyche around the war, the occupation of her country by opposing forces, and the changes in herself and her life.
The narrative voice created by author Cooney flows through the reader's head with a calm, deliberate pace--the pace of human interactions and understanding. It's the perfect rendition of the voice of a woman who's middle aged, wise and getting wiser by the moment--you begin to really know Lucia, and like and admire her, faults and all. It's the perfect voice to give a celebrated singer. Resonant.
Truthfully, I'd have been happy if the book had been another hundred pages long, just to feel that voice!

4.0 out of 5 stars Lambrusco: A Review, July 20, 2008

By 

Book Lover - See all my reviews

This review is from: Lambrusco: A Novel (Hardcover)

"Lambrusco" is the story of one woman's journey as she searches for her missing son across war torn Italy. The novel takes place during World War II and while war provides the horrific background, this is not a story about war itself, but rather about the way it affects those who are surrounded and engulfed by it. It is a story about ordinary people banded together in difficult, extraordinary times. It is about hope, the ways in which we, as individuals, affect those around us, about family, friends, and community. From the moment the book opens, with a list of the cast of characters, you know you are in for an interesting ride. Although the novel is told from Lucia's point of view, there are moments where Lucia's imagination takes over and the result is a panorama of all the things that make us human - our imaginations, fears, lusts, our love, our tenacity, and the relationships we forge and build in even the worst of circumstances. While Lucia must face devastating events, it is her hope, her voice that ultimately survives. The beginning of the novel sets up the journey Lucia must make, but it is the second half which really showcases Ms. Cooney's talent. She creates some real moments of beauty and humor, not an easy task considering the circumstances. Overall, "Lambrusco" is a worthwhile read from a talented writer.

5.0 out of 5 stars A Toast to "Lambrusco", May 22, 2008

By 

Robert L. Winchester - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Lambrusco: A Novel (Hardcover)

Here is a beautiful telling of ordinary people living through extraordinary times. During WWII, these small towns in Italy were caught between the advancing American army, their own Fascist government, and the retreating Germans. We follow Lucia as she searches for her missing partisan son and in the process meet her family and friends, finely drawn characters. We share her thoughts; memories, fears, horrors, and finally hope. Hope, that beneath the devastations and the scars of war there will again emerge songs to sing and a time to love.
This is an author who respects the reader. Through her words she subtly seduces us into Lucia's world. Read and enjoy. BRAVO!