3.5 stars. Fascinating story, a little slow at times, especially the beginning but great last 25%. Read it because it was on Ben Shapiro’s “Things I like” segment.

Had to read this book for a school assignment and I was surprised at how funny it was. You just have to get through the first 100 pages and then it becomes really interesting and I couldn't put the book down.

Could not get into this book. Was a chore to read and then the horrible torture scene. Just No

Historical fiction

I am Italian and part Sicilian and I loved this book.
Well written, great story, lots of humor even
though it evolves around WW2.
Regardless of nationality, you will enjoy this longish novel. Great writer.

Tells a story you don't usually hear. Lots of Philosophy being applied by the Contadini(Peasants). I've actually applied some in my personal life. Not every thread is completed. Nobody in the Story was settled and I think it applied to their stories.

Forced myself to continue making my way through this and not really sure why I did in the end. I liked the idea of reading an older, more obscure book, but I just found it a bit too fond of its own symbolism and kind of overwrought.

Captain von Prum said … “It’s why the whole spirit of the race, the thing we call the German soul, remains a repository of youth. We are as young now as we were in the beginning, while all the rest of Europe is dying of old age.” … Babbaluche said … “We may be old, but when do they plan to grow up?”

4.5 stars - audio version. Took a while to get into it but then it was great.
The characters were so well drawn! You could so easily picture everything. The fact that it’s based on a true story and the authors experience also a big plus.

Many memorable scenes in this unique take on WW2. There are characters to like and dislike, exploring human actions in varying situations. I couldn’t help considering whether or not I would act like each of many characters.
A very memorable read.

One of my favorite books...ever...loved it!

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