#37 Books: The Shadow of the Wind
Do you ever get jealous for a friend who is about to read a book or watch a movie that you enjoyed greatly? I do. I think it's about the emotions you feel the first time you experience the story, its twists and turns, that are hard to replicate when you consume it the second or the third time.
The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon is one of the best novels I've read, but the last time I picked it up was 8 years ago. When thinking about the book, I remembered how much I enjoyed it, but I didn't know how much of the book was still in my memory. When I decided to reread it again, I was pleasantly surprised that I didn't remember much of it. I was jealous of myself because it meant that I get to re-experience the book.
And what a story it is. Set in Barcelona in 1940-1950s, the story follows Daniel on his quest to track down a mysterious person who has been burning all the books by a writer Julian Carax. The book brought back memories of Barcelona, its beautiful streets and architecture. The story is so captivating that it kept it glued to my Kindle from start to finish.
If you haven't read The Shadow of the Wind yet, I feel jealous of you because you are in for quite a journey. Enjoy!
I’m looking for new books to read. What’s the book you loved so much that you would feel jealous of me for experiencing it for the first time? (both fiction and nonfiction)
I have a bit different feelings, when some of my friends follow my advice and read the book, which I have already experienced. It excites me how the book will influence my friend and his worldview. And after I would be glad to deliberate the main idea of the book with him.
You have mentioned the period of time after you reread the book for the second time. I’ve noticed when I go through the book again I explore the book from totally different point of view. I believe the reason is that after some period of time you become more experienced and well-read which allow you to understand the idea of the author more deeply.
Concerning your appeal, I would suggest the Eden Martin by Jack London, which I read several years ago. The book about society and human relationships that didn't lose its relevance, despite it was written in the beginning of the last age.
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir if you are into sci-fi. Enjoy!