Book Review Summary: All That Lingers

Introduction

"All That Lingers" by Irene Wittig is a captivating novel that delves into the tumultuous years of Vienna from Austria's brief civil war in 1934 to the postwar occupation and independence. Through the intertwined lives of Emma, Sophie, and Friedrich, readers experience the challenges of loss, difficult decisions, survival, and rebuilding lives amidst the chaos of war. This book offers a poignant and emotionally driven exploration of Austria's role in World War II, weaving historical facts seamlessly into the narrative. Let's dive into the world of "All That Lingers" and explore the author's background, readers' views, and reasons for both recommending and not recommending this compelling novel.

About Irene Wittig

Irene Wittig, the author of "All That Lingers," draws upon her personal experiences and memories of Vienna to create a richly detailed and emotionally resonant story. Growing up with refugees and people displaced by war, Wittig absorbed their stories of loss, resilience, and hope. Her background in ceramic painting, particularly her children's illustrated alphabet book "An Amusing Alphabet," inspired the creation of "All That Lingers." With its historical accuracy, poignant portrayal of characters, and engaging storytelling, Wittig's novel offers a compelling reading experience that resonates with readers.

Analysis of Views

1. Historical Accuracy: Readers praise "All That Lingers" for its hard-hitting and accurate portrayal of Austria's role in World War II. The book provides an unflinching look at the country's involvement in the war and sheds light on the impact it had on its citizens. Historical facts are seamlessly integrated into the narrative, making for a well-researched and informative reading experience.
2. Realistic Characters: The characters in "All That Lingers" are described as realistic and believable. Readers connect with Emma, Sophie, and Friedrich, empathizing with their struggles and emotions. The development of these characters takes place gradually throughout the story, allowing readers to become invested in their journeys.
3. Emotional Depth: The book evokes a range of emotions from readers, from sorrow to joy. The characters' experiences of loss, grief, and uncertainty are explored in depth, providing a poignant and emotionally driven reading experience. The historical context adds depth to these emotions, making the story resonate with readers on a deeper level.
4. Engaging Storytelling: "All That Lingers" is praised for its well-crafted narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. The story spans a long period of time, weaving historical events into the lives of the characters. The twists and turns keep readers hooked, creating a roller-coaster ride of emotions that keeps them invested in the story.
5. Historical Fiction Fans: Readers who enjoy historical fiction appreciate "All That Lingers" for its ability to transport them to another time and place. The book provides a glimpse into Austria's history during World War II and its aftermath, offering insights into the country's experiences during this tumultuous period. Fans of historical fiction find this aspect particularly appealing.

Reasons for Recommendation

1. Historical Accuracy: Readers appreciate the historical accuracy of "All That Lingers," which adds depth and authenticity to the story. The book provides a comprehensive understanding of Austria's role in World War II and its impact on its citizens. This historical context makes it a valuable addition to historical fiction collections.
2. Engaging Characters: The realistic and believable characters in "All That Lingers" resonate with readers, making them invested in their journeys. Emma, Sophie, and Friedrich are relatable figures who undergo significant transformations throughout the story. Their struggles and triumphs make for an emotionally engaging reading experience.
3. Emotional Depth: The emotional depth of "All That Lingers" is a key reason why readers recommend it. The book explores complex emotions such as grief, loss, and hope in a way that resonates with readers. The historical context adds depth to these emotions, making the story even more impactful.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

1. Lack of Emotion: Some readers feel that "All That Lingers" lacks emotion compared to other historical fiction novels set during World War II. While the book provides historical accuracy and engaging characters, it fails to evoke strong emotions that are commonly associated with this time period. This lack of emotional resonance may be a drawback for readers seeking a more poignant reading experience.
2. Jumping Storyline: A few readers find the jumping storyline confusing at times. With multiple characters introduced early on and little backstory provided, it can be challenging to keep track of their individual stories and motivations. This lack of clarity may hinder readers' engagement with the book.

Conclusion

"All That Lingers" by Irene Wittig is a compelling novel that offers a poignant exploration of Austria's role in World War II through the intertwined lives of Emma, Sophie, and Friedrich. With its historical accuracy, realistic characters, engaging storytelling, and emotional depth, this book resonates with readers who appreciate historical fiction set during this tumultuous period. While some readers find it lacking in emotion or struggle with the jumping storyline, overall, "All That Lingers" is recommended for those seeking a well-researched and emotionally driven reading experience that sheds light on Austria's past and its resilience in the face of adversity.