Still Life

Still Life book cover

ISBN: 0593330757

ISBN 13: 9780593330753

Author: Sarah Winman

4.15 of 63,105

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About This Book

Tuscany, 1944: As Allied troops advance and bombs fall around deserted villages, a young English soldier, Ulysses Temper, finds himself in the wine cellar of a deserted villa. There, he has a chance encounter with Evelyn Skinner, a middle-aged art historian who has come to Italy to salvage paintings from the ruins and recall long-forgotten memories of her own youth. In each other, Ulysses and Evelyn find a kindred spirit amongst the rubble of war-torn Italy, and set off on a course of events that will shape Ulysses's life for the next four decades.

As Ulysses returns home to London, reimmersing himself in his crew at The Stoat and Parrot -- a motley mix of pub crawlers and eccentrics -- he carries his time in Italy with him. And when an unexpected inheritance brings him back to where it all began, Ulysses knows better than to tempt fate, and returns to the Tuscan hills.

With beautiful prose, extraordinary tenderness, and bursts of humor and light, Still Life is a sweeping portrait of unforgettable individuals who come together to make a family, and a richly drawn celebration of beauty and love in all its forms.

Editorial Review

Still Life is a compelling work by Sarah Winman that has captured the attention of readers worldwide. With a excellent rating of 4.15 out of 5 from 63,105 readers, this book has proven its appeal to a broad audience.

The book explores rich themes that keep readers engaged from start to finish. Tuscany, 1944: As Allied troops advance and bombs fall around deserted villages, a young English soldier, Ulysses Temper, finds himself in the wine cellar of a deserted villa. There, he has a chance encounter with Evelyn Skinner, a middle-aged art historian who has come to Italy to salvage paintings from the ruins and recall long-forgotten memories of her own youth. In each other, Ulysses and Evelyn find a kindred spirit amongst the rubble of war-torn Italy, and set off on a course of events that will shape Ulysses's life for the next four decades.As Ulysses returns home to London, reimmersing himself in his crew at The Stoat and Parrot -- a motley mix of pub crawlers and eccentrics -- he carries his time in Italy with him.

— Reviewed by Editorial App Deal Library ·

Why Read This Book?

Highly Rated by Readers — Still Life holds an impressive 4.15/5 rating from 63,105 readers, reflecting its wide appeal and consistent quality.
Trusted Author — Sarah Winman is known for delivering quality writing that engages readers with compelling storytelling and well-researched content.

Reading Recommendations

Looking for your next read after Still Life? Consider exploring "The Names", "The Correspondent" and "There Are Rivers in the Sky". Each of these titles offers a comparable reading experience while bringing its own unique perspective.

Quick Summary

Set against the backdrop of war-torn Tuscany in 1944, 'Still Life' follows Ulysses Temper, a young English soldier, who encounters Evelyn Skinner, an art historian. Their meeting amidst the chaos of conflict sparks a deep connection that influences Ulysses's life for decades. As he navigates post-war London and his colorful pub community, the memories of Italy and his bond with Evelyn continue to shape his identity and choices.

Key Takeaways

Exploration of human connections forged in times of adversity.
Insights into the impact of war on personal identity and relationships.
A reflection on art and memory as means of coping with loss.

Who Should Read This Book

This novel is ideal for readers who appreciate historical fiction with rich character development and emotional depth. Those interested in the interplay between art, memory, and the human experience during tumultuous times will find this book particularly engaging.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main theme of 'Still Life'?

The main theme revolves around human connections and the enduring impact of relationships formed during challenging times.

Is 'Still Life' based on real events?

While the story is fictional, it is set against a historical backdrop, incorporating elements of World War II and its effects on individuals.

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