Book details
A Time of Miracles
Description
Winner of the Batchelder Award--this tale of of exile, sacrifice, hope, and survival is a story of ultimate love.Blaise Fortune, also known as Koumal, loves hearing the story of how he came to live with Gloria in the Republic of Georgia: Gloria was picking peaches in her father's orchard when she heard a train derail. After running to the site of the accident, she found an injured woman who asked Gloria to take her baby. The woman, Gloria claims, was French, and the baby was Blaise.When Blaise turns seven years old, the Soviet Union collapses and Gloria decides that she and Blaise must flee the political troubles and civil unrest in Georgia. The two make their way westward on foot, heading toward France, where Gloria says they will find safe haven. But what exactly is the truth about Blaise's past?Bits and pieces are revealed as he and Gloria endure a five-year journey across the Caucasus and Europe, weathering hardships and welcoming unforgettable encounters with other refugees searching for a better life. During this time Blaise grows from a boy into an adolescent; but only later, as a young man, can he finally attempt to untangle his identity.Bondoux's heartbreaking tale of exile, sacrifice, hope, and survival is a story of ultimate love.From the Hardcover edition.
Age
12-15
Text complexity
proficient
Length
192 pages
Why to read
- Cultural Insight: 'A Time of Miracles' offers readers a deep dive into the culture and history of the Caucasus region, providing a rich backdrop that enhances understanding of a complex part of the world.
- Emotional Depth: Anne-Laure Bondoux's storytelling is filled with emotional depth, exploring themes of survival, hope, and the human spirit, which can resonate with readers on a personal level.
- Award-Winning Literature: The book has received critical acclaim, including prestigious awards such as the Batchelder Award, signaling its quality and the impactful reading experience it offers.
- Character Development: The novel features strong character development, particularly of the protagonist, Koumail, whose journey from childhood to adolescence amidst political turmoil provides a compelling narrative that fosters empathy and connection.