This work of art and poetry is a gift that originated long ago and was passed on from one generation to the next. From the
life and
experience of Jakob Beer to the poignant mind and pen of Anne Michaels comes an epic so subtle and so full of empathy it takes your breath away. It is beautful to read how moved Michaels was at his life and writing. She shares her wisdom and perspective on the Second World War, the atrocities of it, the day to day struggles of it, and the lasting shadow of it, that all involved take with them to their graves. Her use of such eloquent and bold language urges one to take each line, each concept and ponder it. Take in its depth and apply it to your own life. Every page spins a magic so vivid it conjures a vision of the story like nothing I have ever experience while reading a book. The
places described are loved. I am inlove with Zakynthos, the island of Jakob's neo youth. I am inlove with Toronto, Athos' new beginning for Jakob away from Europe. The tempting adventures they share in these places makes one want to take a flight over there and do the same. Michaels' story is one of sorrow and family, but also of hope and love. It sings of friends and memories, of loyalty and dedication. If we could be filled with such character and humanity as Koumbaros, the world as we know it would be turned on its head and wars may cease to blaze through the lives of millions.Michaels teaches us that the skill of this life is to listen closely to our loved ones and our hearts and to love with all our pain, all our experience - good or bad - with all our god given might!