Love is the theme of this month’s book giveaway for one obvious reason. Also, I happen to have two copies of this month’s book, The History of Love. I can’t believe I’m admitting this but I actually bought a hardcover version, read it and then when I saw the softcover version in the bookstore a year or so later I bought it again. I didn’t recognize the cover, and I didn’t remember the story from the flap copy. Only once I had gotten it home and read several pages did the story come back to me. I’m pretty sure it’s the first time I’ve ever unintentionally purchased the same book twice.
Nonetheless, I enjoyed it both times I read it. Here’s a brief description from Publisher’s Weekly:
The last words of this haunting novel resonate like a pealing bell. “He fell in love. It was his life.” This is the unofficial obituary of octogenarian Leo Gursky, a character whose mordant wit, gallows humor and searching heart create an unforgettable portrait. Born in Poland and a WWII refugee in New York, Leo has become invisible to the world. When he leaves his tiny apartment, he deliberately draws attention to himself to be sure he exists. What’s really missing in his life is the woman he has always loved, the son who doesn’t know that Leo is his father, and his lost novel, called The History of Love, which, unbeknownst to Leo, was published years ago in Chile under a different man’s name.
So if you haven’t read it but you’d like to, leave a comment letting me know your favourite love story. Winner will be chosen at random next Friday, February 19. Good luck!
I will have to admit that one of my fave love stories (this one in movie form) is the love story in the American President. Corny – I know…but I think that’s what makes the best love stories! I could watch this movie a thousand times more – Annette Bening and Michael Douglas are fantastic and show their love in the cutest and unique (caused by the fact that he’s the president) ways. The gives a good picture of what searching for love would be like from inside the White House!
I read this book recently. It was an amazing book! A little confusing at times, but a great read.
I empathise, I have a horrible memory for books and movies, which is great cause I can re-watch and re-read my favs & not have a clue what will happen next :) My fav love story would have to be the Great Gatsby…
Given the size of your library, my dear, that qualifies as a badge of honour.
Tales of the Night, Peter Høeg. It might not have been my choice ten years ago or five years from now, but it resonates particularly well at this moment in time.
I’d have offered up Justine/Lawrence Durrell, but didn’t want JJT taking credit. That said, I am forever in debt to those friends that take the time to recommend quality reading. Love your initiative — keep it up!