The Flight of Gemma Hardy LP: A Novel by Margot Livesey
- Paperback: 480 pages
- Publisher: Harper Perennial (July 24, 2012)
- Language: English
- ISBN-10: 0062064231
- ISBN-13: 978-0062064233
The resonant story of a
young woman's struggle to take charge of her own future, "The Flight of
Gemma Hardy" is a modern take on a classic story--Charlotte BrontE's
"Jane Eyre"--that will fascinate readers of the Gothic original and fans
of modern literary fiction alike, with its lyrical prose, robust
characters, and abundant compassion. Set in early 1960s Scotland, this
breakout novel from award-winning author Margot Livesey is a tale of
determination and spirit that, like "The Three Weissmanns of Westport
"and "A Thousand Acres," spins an unforgettable new story from threads
of our shared, still-living literary past.
"Gemma is real--it's as
simple as that. And through her eyes we see step by step what it means .
. . to take possession of one's own life." --David Wroblewski, author
of "The Story of Edgar Sawtelle"
I haven’t read Jane Eyre, yeah, I know, you can’t believe me. But I live in the Philippines, and we’re not required to study English Classic Literatures, except when you majored in it in college. So, I have nothing to compare “The Flight of Gemma Hardy” to.
Even though this book is a tribute to Bronte’s Jane Eyre, I find myself falling for this book’s charm alone. I don’t need to compare it with the original classic, because this one is not an old classic, but rather a retelling of a great classic in another way. It’s something of a modern and revitalizing tale that is wonderful in its own way.
Every scene in the book is monumental and heart-breaking. The author’s writing is compelling and has this wonderful flow that the story is not forced at all. Iceland and Scotland, complete with their history and geography was also vividly described that I find it easy to picture the places and bring myself back into the 50’s and 60’s time.
The characters are unique in their own way. Some of them, you might hate, but this only makes the story real and engaging. The plot is filled with twist and emotions.
Gemma Hardy’s life was no other. She lost both her dear parents and even her uncle who took care of her after her parent’s death has suffered the same fate with the reaper. Unfortunately for Gemma, life was never as she knows it when her aunt and cousins showed that they are not nice at all. And a whole lot of adventure, tragedy and learning sprout in Gemma’s journey from a young girl into a full grown woman.
I instantly liked Gemma Hardy from the very first page. Although her life was sad and full of tragedy, her little light of hope can’t help but shine through in everything she’s been true.
“The Flight of Gemma Hardy” has its own beauty, inspiration and tragedy which it could be proud of. I’m glad to be part of Gemma’s journey of passion and betrayal, secrets, lies, learning and growth, dreams and friendship.
Ms. Margot Livesey is another brilliant contemporary writer and “The Flight of Gemma hardy” is another brilliant masterpiece.
Highly Recommended!
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Hi! I'm from the Philippines too! Nice to meet you!
ReplyDeleteAnyway, I'm not into classical books but I had the chance to read Jane Eyre and it's surprisingly good. You should give it a try and expect that some words are difficult to comprehend. Nevertheless, it's still good.