This is by far one of the best novels I have ever read (and read again and again). Like most of my other favorite novels (and movies), Captain Corelli’s Mandolin offers a generous mix of action, romance, humor, humanity and insight, all set into a convincing and enthralling historical context...
Captain Corelli’s Mandolin is both a love story and a war novel. The magic of this book lies in how the writing is simple, beautiful and witty while fully embracing the horrific cruelty of war. This prevents the beautiful love scenes from being sappy and the gruesome scenes of violence from being overwhelming.
This novel touches on many profound themes that are still as timely as they ever were, such as the pains of homosexual self-denial, the destruction caused by a handful of stupid megalomaniacs, the toll of torture on both victim and torturer, the weight of history, the consequences of educating one’s daughter, good and evil and the middle ground where most people find themselves, etc.
All in all, this is a must-read for anyone looking for a rich, thoughtful and enjoyable literary experience.
PS: The 2003 movie adaptation with Nicolas Cage and Penelope Cruz is as awful as the original book is wonderful. So, pick-up the book but, please, stay away from this insultingly shallow movie and you should be OK.
