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Le sourire du clair de lune
Pour devenir celui qu’il a toujours rêvé d’être et sortir de sa condition modeste, Paul Vertune est prêt à tout. Le jour où il rencontre un soldat nazi dans la clairière d’une forêt bretonne, sa vie bascule. Paul part à la découverte du vaste monde, réalisant ainsi son rêve d’enfant. Sans jamais se départir de sa joie de vivre et animé par une confiance infinie en l’Homme, Paul affronte les obstacles pour suivre son destin. Osera-t-il alors avouer ses sentiments à la belle Mathilde qu’il aime secrètement depuis toujours ? Respectera t-il la promesse faite à cet officier allemand qui a changé sa vie ?
De la France à l’Espagne, en passant par l’Allemagne et l’Argentine, ce roman plein de sensibilité et d’optimisme, nous transporte des années 30 à nos jours, au gré des phases de la Lune qui rythment la vie du narrateur.
Nouvelle édition : cette édition de Le sourire du claire de lune, publiée le 1 décembre 2015, comprend des révisions éditoriales.
310 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 23, 2014
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852 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
February 12, 2018
By the time I read this book I could not remember why I wanted to. For that reason it felt like the beginning of a new adventure.
And so I get to know the stories of the protagonist, Paul Vertune, and María, Martín, Mathilde, Manuel, Jean, Marc, Jacques, Catherine, and the captain of the ship.
As a young boy, Paul Vertune was mesmerized by TheMoon. He used to lie down in his father's orchard at night and watch the pebble in the sky as it changed faces all the time. Despite his circumstances, living on a wheat farm and being treated harshly by a father who did not understand him, he had a natural born instinct to believe that there was another life waiting for him on the other side of the Gulf of Morbihan in the Breton region of France. As he grew older he soon learnt that The Moon becomes two words when a boy becomes a man.
During WWII, when a German soldier is brutully killed in his village, fourteen-year-old Paul promised him to find his daughter and tell her that her father loved her.
This promise he made to a dying man who once saved Paul's life, taught him that his childhood dream was a perfectly oiled machine, which nothing and no one could obstruct, particularly in those who faithfully awaited their turn without rushing or wearing themselves out in vain.
At the end of his life, when he was about to make good on his promise, it struck him that his whole existence was like the phases of the moon, waxing and waning, riddled with craters, which, when he looked closer, wore a wide smile.
His life started when two bicycles stopped on his father's farm of which one carried the doctor and the other the priest.
I was not yet born, and already a paradox of life had me in its clutches. My umbilical cord had barely been severed, and already my body was buffeted between the doctor’s instruments and the priest’s holy water.
The truth was that one of them considered procreation to be God’s masterpiece, while the other saw it as a mere fact of life related to the survival of the species.
The story reminded me strongly of Fredrik Backman's gentle, but sad novels of old people slipping away from the world becoming absorbed in their own minds, while time was moving on without them.
It is a heartfelt, beautiful story with a moral message. Within ourselves we have good and evil, like two suitcase which we fill as we please.
I don't want to talk about the plot or story line of this 244 page novel. Let it remain a mystery for someone who might want to join the adventures of Paul Venture, like I did. It was an unforgettable journey. When I met Paul Venture as a newly-born baby, and ventured off with him through his life till the very end, I knew that words surpassed us. It was one soul talking to another. And that made all the difference.
RECOMMENDED!
And so I get to know the stories of the protagonist, Paul Vertune, and María, Martín, Mathilde, Manuel, Jean, Marc, Jacques, Catherine, and the captain of the ship.
As a young boy, Paul Vertune was mesmerized by TheMoon. He used to lie down in his father's orchard at night and watch the pebble in the sky as it changed faces all the time. Despite his circumstances, living on a wheat farm and being treated harshly by a father who did not understand him, he had a natural born instinct to believe that there was another life waiting for him on the other side of the Gulf of Morbihan in the Breton region of France. As he grew older he soon learnt that The Moon becomes two words when a boy becomes a man.
During WWII, when a German soldier is brutully killed in his village, fourteen-year-old Paul promised him to find his daughter and tell her that her father loved her.
This promise he made to a dying man who once saved Paul's life, taught him that his childhood dream was a perfectly oiled machine, which nothing and no one could obstruct, particularly in those who faithfully awaited their turn without rushing or wearing themselves out in vain.
At the end of his life, when he was about to make good on his promise, it struck him that his whole existence was like the phases of the moon, waxing and waning, riddled with craters, which, when he looked closer, wore a wide smile.
His life started when two bicycles stopped on his father's farm of which one carried the doctor and the other the priest.
I was not yet born, and already a paradox of life had me in its clutches. My umbilical cord had barely been severed, and already my body was buffeted between the doctor’s instruments and the priest’s holy water.
The truth was that one of them considered procreation to be God’s masterpiece, while the other saw it as a mere fact of life related to the survival of the species.
The story reminded me strongly of Fredrik Backman's gentle, but sad novels of old people slipping away from the world becoming absorbed in their own minds, while time was moving on without them.
It is a heartfelt, beautiful story with a moral message. Within ourselves we have good and evil, like two suitcase which we fill as we please.
I don't want to talk about the plot or story line of this 244 page novel. Let it remain a mystery for someone who might want to join the adventures of Paul Venture, like I did. It was an unforgettable journey. When I met Paul Venture as a newly-born baby, and ventured off with him through his life till the very end, I knew that words surpassed us. It was one soul talking to another. And that made all the difference.
RECOMMENDED!
July 25, 2024
An enjoyable and gentle novel which follows a man's life where even though he has many troubles and does not always been treated kindly he stays very optimistic. The high spirits that our hero Paul always maintains keeps the story going at a fast pace and makes it easy to root for him on his journey through the twentieth century.
This novel is French and even though I read the translation, the Gallic flare is apparent with the language and mood of the book. I could sense the difference in telling a story from a continental perspective. I recommend this novel, even though it is not long, will stay with the reader.
This novel is French and even though I read the translation, the Gallic flare is apparent with the language and mood of the book. I could sense the difference in telling a story from a continental perspective. I recommend this novel, even though it is not long, will stay with the reader.
February 6, 2020
This book is a hidden gem about the life of an optimistic dreamer, Paul Vertune, born in rural France in 1929. He feels out of place in his farming community, and dreams of becoming a sailor. Paul tells his story in first person, similar to a memoir. We follow him on his journey through the major events of his life, including his successes and setbacks.
The book is structured around the phases of the moon, as correlated to Paul’s stage in life. It is beautifully written (and translated from French). Paul is a likeable character and it is easy to root for him. The tone is philosophical, filled with atmospheric prose and thoughtful reflections such as:
- “Life is a play of resistance and acceptance, of negotiation and compromise. In this grand ball of life where we all dance to mysterious music, it is only people who change.”
- “Imagination is double edged. It can transport us to places of such intense emotion that we would happily stay there for all eternity, but it can also expose our most primal, most harrowing fears.”
- “A pleasant yet subtle fragrance of deep fellowship and affability hung in the air. We were tied by the invisible thread of humanity that forever binds those who have stuck together through adversity.”
- “Sometimes, a delightful satisfaction awaits us at life’s crossroads. It glides overhead, wings outstretched, and seems huge when viewed from below. Like that mythological bird I’d dreamed of as a kid, the phoenix reborn from its ashes, it bears us off heavenward to explore new horizons, new ways of thinking.”
Themes include the impact of kindness, the value of friendship, and the importance of integrity. It is a contemplation about finding the beauty in life and being true to oneself. This book provides a great break between heavy reads. Pick it up when you are in the mood for a poignant, reflective, uplifting story.
The book is structured around the phases of the moon, as correlated to Paul’s stage in life. It is beautifully written (and translated from French). Paul is a likeable character and it is easy to root for him. The tone is philosophical, filled with atmospheric prose and thoughtful reflections such as:
- “Life is a play of resistance and acceptance, of negotiation and compromise. In this grand ball of life where we all dance to mysterious music, it is only people who change.”
- “Imagination is double edged. It can transport us to places of such intense emotion that we would happily stay there for all eternity, but it can also expose our most primal, most harrowing fears.”
- “A pleasant yet subtle fragrance of deep fellowship and affability hung in the air. We were tied by the invisible thread of humanity that forever binds those who have stuck together through adversity.”
- “Sometimes, a delightful satisfaction awaits us at life’s crossroads. It glides overhead, wings outstretched, and seems huge when viewed from below. Like that mythological bird I’d dreamed of as a kid, the phoenix reborn from its ashes, it bears us off heavenward to explore new horizons, new ways of thinking.”
Themes include the impact of kindness, the value of friendship, and the importance of integrity. It is a contemplation about finding the beauty in life and being true to oneself. This book provides a great break between heavy reads. Pick it up when you are in the mood for a poignant, reflective, uplifting story.
April 12, 2018
4.5 stars
The engaging life story of Paul Vertune, who was born on a farm in rural Brittany. It's a gentle story, despite the hardships that take place in a life. Paul is in a constant struggle between whom he wants to be and who the world wants him to be.
It's like a story told at the fireside on a cold and windy night. The author certainly has a way with words and I look forward to his next book!
The engaging life story of Paul Vertune, who was born on a farm in rural Brittany. It's a gentle story, despite the hardships that take place in a life. Paul is in a constant struggle between whom he wants to be and who the world wants him to be.
It's like a story told at the fireside on a cold and windy night. The author certainly has a way with words and I look forward to his next book!
January 28, 2018
Seasons of the Moon is about remaining human when everything seems to be against it. Narrated by the protagonist himself, the story follows Paul Vertune’s life from his birth. Shaped by the events of his childhood, Paul tries to keep the ever present smile on his lips and his faith in humanity in all circumstances. He is an easily likeable and well built character. I loved how he was constantly thinking about the consequences of his own actions and tried to find reasons behind the actions of others.
The story is slow sometimes, as others have pointed out, but I didn’t mind it, I think it is essential to get to know Paul’s mindset.
I gave this book four stars, because I found the writing and sometimes the choice of words a bit forced. I’ve read the English translation, maybe the original - French - version is flawless.
My thanks to Netgalley and Amazon Crossing for providing me a review copy.
The story is slow sometimes, as others have pointed out, but I didn’t mind it, I think it is essential to get to know Paul’s mindset.
I gave this book four stars, because I found the writing and sometimes the choice of words a bit forced. I’ve read the English translation, maybe the original - French - version is flawless.
My thanks to Netgalley and Amazon Crossing for providing me a review copy.
November 28, 2017
Beautifully written
Although listed as historical fiction this is more a reflection on life, circumstance and being true to yourself.
The story centres on farmers boy Paul, who aged 15 is saved by a Nazi soldier from being killed. Paul now finds this same soldier captured, and with his last gasps asks Paul to please find his daughter and to let her know that her father loved her.
So far so good, but this isn’t your regular WW2 tale as it evolves into a memoir of Paul’s life which takes the reader on a beautiful journey.
The book has quite a slow start and as other reviewers have commented it takes a while to lure you in, but once in, the story ebbs and flows in a lyrical fashion despite being a translation from French to English.
If you are expecting a formulaic World War 2 novel you will be pleasantly surprised by this moving and powerful debut novel.
My thanks go to NetGalley and the Publisher for the chance to read an advance copy of this book.
Although listed as historical fiction this is more a reflection on life, circumstance and being true to yourself.
The story centres on farmers boy Paul, who aged 15 is saved by a Nazi soldier from being killed. Paul now finds this same soldier captured, and with his last gasps asks Paul to please find his daughter and to let her know that her father loved her.
So far so good, but this isn’t your regular WW2 tale as it evolves into a memoir of Paul’s life which takes the reader on a beautiful journey.
The book has quite a slow start and as other reviewers have commented it takes a while to lure you in, but once in, the story ebbs and flows in a lyrical fashion despite being a translation from French to English.
If you are expecting a formulaic World War 2 novel you will be pleasantly surprised by this moving and powerful debut novel.
My thanks go to NetGalley and the Publisher for the chance to read an advance copy of this book.
August 11, 2017
Sencilla y profunda historia que nos permite acompañar la vida de unos personajes maravillosos, que pese a sus heridas y pérdidas, decidieron elegir en esta paradoja que es la vida, ser seres de luz...no dejarse llevar por la oscuridad.
Ha sido para mí un agasajo leer esta historia, al final, ha sido imposible no llorar ante su inevitable descenlace. Grandes verdades he leído así como prioridades he confirmado y recordado.
Sin duda es una historia para mí memorable.
Ha sido para mí un agasajo leer esta historia, al final, ha sido imposible no llorar ante su inevitable descenlace. Grandes verdades he leído así como prioridades he confirmado y recordado.
Sin duda es una historia para mí memorable.
December 30, 2017
Book was just ok
I found the story dragged. For a story told in the early sections as Paul himself speaking, the vocabulary was in my mind at odds with how a young man with his educational background would speak or think.
Would not recommend this book. Seemed too much effort was placed on trying to create a spiritual and philosophical mood, but it didn't fit with the books protagonist.
I found the story dragged. For a story told in the early sections as Paul himself speaking, the vocabulary was in my mind at odds with how a young man with his educational background would speak or think.
Would not recommend this book. Seemed too much effort was placed on trying to create a spiritual and philosophical mood, but it didn't fit with the books protagonist.
April 1, 2023
کتاب روان و قشنگی بود پیچیدگی ها و فراز نشیب های زندگی یه آدم جنگیدنش برای ارزو ها و رویاهاش همچی اونقدر واقعی بود که حس آرامش بهت میداد...
October 3, 2018
I was pretty excited to start this book. Some parts of it just sounded too good to miss. I'm here for a character that loves the moon and the ocean because, same. And the adventures Paul experiences could have been very interesting. But I could not get over the tone of the narration. And this may just have been something that was lost in translation, but a lot of it went back to that tired old creative writing workshop advice: there was a lot of telling and I'd prefer to have been *shown* some things. For instance, Paul keeps telling us how much he loves Mathilde, claims theirs is a great and beautiful love story. But why? What's her personality? We don't really get to know the characters for themselves, just the tiny adjectives Paul uses for them, so they wound up feeling really flat to me. Added to that, Paul's tone throughout seems so self-righteous. Even when he does things that are wrong and will hurt other people, he's somehow in the right. I didn't see Paul's flaws in action and the consequences of his actions (unless you count with his father, which I don't because Paul casts his father as the villain for the bulk of the story). Somehow, Paul is never in the wrong, never seems to admit a real mistake that forces him to undergo some earned pain and he doesn't grow as a consequence of his choices. His mindset never seems to be challenged, in a way that makes him doubt himself and question things and really change. And isn't learning through those doubts or overcoming them a part of living too? So Paul didn't seem as realistic and believable to me, because he didn't seem to really recognize his own flaws. And we're getting this story from him, in this state of constantly being on the moral high ground, which made the so-called "profound" observations sound preachy, adding to the frustration for me. Where was the tension? Where was the struggle and arguments between the characters? Show me the humanity of these characters so I can take a vested interest in these people! Otherwise, they feel as hollow as fairy tale characters preaching to the choir without feeling, without empathizing. The story was pretty, but with more substance it could have been beautiful.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2017
Oh my stars, this book.
I am one that tends to stick within the same genres; mainly historical fiction. I was in the mood for something different, however, when I ran across Seasons of the Moon. (And that cover! Swoon.) On a whim I requested it, figuring I could leisurely read it when I was in the mood for something a little different.
Except that I couldn't put it down, and finished it in two days.
What an incredibly beautiful story! Seasons of the Moon follows the life (quite literally) of Paul Vertune. (I loved that sections in the book were named for moon phases!) From birth to death, we follow him through his troubled childhood, his special relationship with his mother and his fear during Nazi Germany. We see him muster the courage to leave his past behind, venture toward the future, chase his childhood dreams, get married, become a father and everything else in between. Seeing these events through his eyes, as well as having the privilege of being privy to his thoughts and heart, was a wonderful gift. I loved getting to know Paul, and grieved as his life drew to a close. The author's writing is superb, and I am thrilled to hear that he is releasing a new book in 2018. I enjoyed the way the author handled the Epilogue, though I did feel that Paul deserved a better ending, health-wise.
Bottom Line: Get the book. Meet Paul Vertune. Travel with him on his amazing journey.
I am one that tends to stick within the same genres; mainly historical fiction. I was in the mood for something different, however, when I ran across Seasons of the Moon. (And that cover! Swoon.) On a whim I requested it, figuring I could leisurely read it when I was in the mood for something a little different.
Except that I couldn't put it down, and finished it in two days.
What an incredibly beautiful story! Seasons of the Moon follows the life (quite literally) of Paul Vertune. (I loved that sections in the book were named for moon phases!) From birth to death, we follow him through his troubled childhood, his special relationship with his mother and his fear during Nazi Germany. We see him muster the courage to leave his past behind, venture toward the future, chase his childhood dreams, get married, become a father and everything else in between. Seeing these events through his eyes, as well as having the privilege of being privy to his thoughts and heart, was a wonderful gift. I loved getting to know Paul, and grieved as his life drew to a close. The author's writing is superb, and I am thrilled to hear that he is releasing a new book in 2018. I enjoyed the way the author handled the Epilogue, though I did feel that Paul deserved a better ending, health-wise.
Bottom Line: Get the book. Meet Paul Vertune. Travel with him on his amazing journey.
October 4, 2017
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley for my honest review.
What an utterly delightful read with a main character, Paul, whom you will fall in love with. Even during some of the sadder points in the story, you can't help but see how these events shaped Paul and the memories he held so fondly.
The book tells the story of a boy as he grows into a man and his relationships with his family, friends and wife over the course of his life. At a young age he is different from the rest, more empathetic and a dreamer who always sees the good of things, and often ridiculed by the people he craves recognition from for it.
As a young boy his life is spared by a solider whom he makes a promise to, and throughout the course of the book his experiences and stories with the other characters lead him through his attempts at keeping this promise.
The first chapter describing his birth sets the tone for the book and the author wrote it in such a beautiful way that you can't help but keep reading.
My favorite passage from the book:
"He understood from an early age that we all carry good and evil within us, like two suitcases which we fill as we please....humanity is built upon a strange contradiction that manipulates us from the shadows. He preferred to nurture the light rather than seek refuge in the darkness."
What an utterly delightful read with a main character, Paul, whom you will fall in love with. Even during some of the sadder points in the story, you can't help but see how these events shaped Paul and the memories he held so fondly.
The book tells the story of a boy as he grows into a man and his relationships with his family, friends and wife over the course of his life. At a young age he is different from the rest, more empathetic and a dreamer who always sees the good of things, and often ridiculed by the people he craves recognition from for it.
As a young boy his life is spared by a solider whom he makes a promise to, and throughout the course of the book his experiences and stories with the other characters lead him through his attempts at keeping this promise.
The first chapter describing his birth sets the tone for the book and the author wrote it in such a beautiful way that you can't help but keep reading.
My favorite passage from the book:
"He understood from an early age that we all carry good and evil within us, like two suitcases which we fill as we please....humanity is built upon a strange contradiction that manipulates us from the shadows. He preferred to nurture the light rather than seek refuge in the darkness."
August 22, 2017
Thanks to NetGalley for this book to review!
Seasons of the Moon was one of those books where you fall in love with the main character, Paul Vertune. It follows a boys that is destined to become a wheat farmer but his choices change the direction of his life at each different season. Being a mom of boys also, I wanted to protect young Paul, take pride in Paul's choices as he became a man and husband, rejoice as he became a father, and look forward to the future as he became a grandfather!
This book showed how different choices, actions, and thoughts shape who we become.
Seasons of the Moon was one of those books where you fall in love with the main character, Paul Vertune. It follows a boys that is destined to become a wheat farmer but his choices change the direction of his life at each different season. Being a mom of boys also, I wanted to protect young Paul, take pride in Paul's choices as he became a man and husband, rejoice as he became a father, and look forward to the future as he became a grandfather!
This book showed how different choices, actions, and thoughts shape who we become.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 12, 2017
I adored this novel! It’s beautifully written and atmospheric. There’s a reason why World War II-era historical fiction is so popular, and why it’s my favorite to read. Timeless tales of heroism, tragedy, heartbreak, and love are stories that always leave a mark on me, and debut Julien Aranda’s novel, Seasons of the Moon, undoubtedly has. If you enjoy historical fiction then you will love this book. I highly recommended it!
January 2, 2018
Loved this book and all the characters. A great metaphor of Paul’s life following the phases of the moon. Paul, living in the shadow of a hateful father and older brother, making his way and following his boyhood dreams. It all comes full circle as he ages and through life’s experiences and depth of love for his wife understands and accepts life, death, tragedies, happiness and most of all, forgiveness. An excellent read and I love the character, Paul. The translation was excellent.
October 16, 2017
I was gifted a Kindle copy from a Goodreads giveaway. I read A LOT. I read historical fiction the majority of the time. However, this book was so hard to get into. I read ten chapters and that took me four days. This book is eternally slow and it just did not capture my attention or interest enough to continue.
July 1, 2018
Lyrical tale of one man’s life-long quest
What a beautiful story of one man’s journey to make good on a promise made out of the most compromising of situations. Some exquisitely lyrical writing depicts the musings and introspection of Paul Vertune, somewhat a modern-day Miguel de Cervantes, yet one for whom windmills are sublimely overshadowed by the ebb and flow of the sea:
- “Stars are not simply exploding suns, as scientists would have it, but the embers or extinguished love. They glow to remind us that, despite our lack of faith, the only thing that really counts is eternal, sparkling love.”
- “Our days pass like shooting stars in the sky. We pause to watch them for a moment, fascinated by the strangeness of their origins. When they start to fade, when the show is no longer entertaining enough, we return to our everyday business, already bored with their enchanting trails.”
- “Contrary to its daytime opposite - proud, arrogant, burning bright with a thousand flames - I found the moon to be calmer, discrete, and soothing. The moon has no need to shine as brightly, no need to be so boastful. It simply glides across the sky at night while the whole world sleeps, without ostentation or prestige, a friend to insomniacs. You can look at it without hurting your eyes, unlike the sun, which blasts your retinas if you try to piece its mysteries. The moon was my divinity. It soothed my soul’s torments with its pale reflections off the sea. It’s subtle craters, the many shapes it assumed in the course of its cycles, like those of my personality. I identified with the moon. My moon.”
What a beautiful story of one man’s journey to make good on a promise made out of the most compromising of situations. Some exquisitely lyrical writing depicts the musings and introspection of Paul Vertune, somewhat a modern-day Miguel de Cervantes, yet one for whom windmills are sublimely overshadowed by the ebb and flow of the sea:
- “Stars are not simply exploding suns, as scientists would have it, but the embers or extinguished love. They glow to remind us that, despite our lack of faith, the only thing that really counts is eternal, sparkling love.”
- “Our days pass like shooting stars in the sky. We pause to watch them for a moment, fascinated by the strangeness of their origins. When they start to fade, when the show is no longer entertaining enough, we return to our everyday business, already bored with their enchanting trails.”
- “Contrary to its daytime opposite - proud, arrogant, burning bright with a thousand flames - I found the moon to be calmer, discrete, and soothing. The moon has no need to shine as brightly, no need to be so boastful. It simply glides across the sky at night while the whole world sleeps, without ostentation or prestige, a friend to insomniacs. You can look at it without hurting your eyes, unlike the sun, which blasts your retinas if you try to piece its mysteries. The moon was my divinity. It soothed my soul’s torments with its pale reflections off the sea. It’s subtle craters, the many shapes it assumed in the course of its cycles, like those of my personality. I identified with the moon. My moon.”
May 24, 2023
کتاب بیش از این که درون مایهی داستانی خوبی داشته باشه، پر بود از تقلیدی از جمله های فلسفی مانند. قهرمان داستان در تمام طول کتاب در حال درس گرفتن از زندگی و بازگویی اون برای ما بود و همین موضوع کتاب رو بی اندازه خسته کننده کرده بود. کتاب می تونست دو ستاره بیشتر از من بگیره اگر با یک سوم حجم الانش جملات نصحیت گونه ی کمتری داشت
August 1, 2017
Seasons of the Moon is a translated version of Julien Aranda’s first novel, "Le sourire du clair de lune." It follows the course of a man’s life, comparing each stage to a stage of the moon. The fourth son of a wheat farmer, Paul Vertune is set apart from the rest of his family because of his sensitive nature and ever-present smile. There are a few distinct moments during Paul’s childhood that follow him through his whole life, spurring him to action at times and creating adventure where there might have been none.
It took me a little while to get into this book, at first I found the poetic writing a little dull and often meandering. The first few chapters are about Paul’s birth and his very early years, during which he doesn’t talk. These chapters were very heavy on description and, while they created a beautiful sense of place, they tended to drone and lull. Keep in mind, however, that I haven’t got an excellent attention span, so this type of writing made it hard for me to keep my focus for more than a few paragraphs at a time. As Paul grew up and started to engage more with the world around him, I found myself riveted to his life. The language I initially found flowery became a reflection of Paul’s sensitive nature and how he perceived the world.
There wasn’t a plot that readers follow from beginning to end, but rather the many interweaving stories that get created as a person lives. Paul has had some more notable events than other, but he’s still an ordinary man from a small town in Brittany. The novel skims over large parts of his life and lingers where events occur, which I actually liked more than I thought I would. The first time I realized Aranda was skipping chunks, I was taken back, but as the novel progressed I really liked the way he dealt with the vast amount of time he intended to cover.
Overall, the book was emotional and thought-provoking and once I got into it, I was glued to the page (well, screen). I found myself relating to Paul and hoping that he would make it through. I cried when he cried and I wanted everything he wanted. As a character, Paul is incredibly realistic and I found myself wanting to be like him, wanting to have his optimism and his kindness toward humanity.
It took me a little while to get into this book, at first I found the poetic writing a little dull and often meandering. The first few chapters are about Paul’s birth and his very early years, during which he doesn’t talk. These chapters were very heavy on description and, while they created a beautiful sense of place, they tended to drone and lull. Keep in mind, however, that I haven’t got an excellent attention span, so this type of writing made it hard for me to keep my focus for more than a few paragraphs at a time. As Paul grew up and started to engage more with the world around him, I found myself riveted to his life. The language I initially found flowery became a reflection of Paul’s sensitive nature and how he perceived the world.
There wasn’t a plot that readers follow from beginning to end, but rather the many interweaving stories that get created as a person lives. Paul has had some more notable events than other, but he’s still an ordinary man from a small town in Brittany. The novel skims over large parts of his life and lingers where events occur, which I actually liked more than I thought I would. The first time I realized Aranda was skipping chunks, I was taken back, but as the novel progressed I really liked the way he dealt with the vast amount of time he intended to cover.
Overall, the book was emotional and thought-provoking and once I got into it, I was glued to the page (well, screen). I found myself relating to Paul and hoping that he would make it through. I cried when he cried and I wanted everything he wanted. As a character, Paul is incredibly realistic and I found myself wanting to be like him, wanting to have his optimism and his kindness toward humanity.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2017
SEASONS OF THE MOON was one of those books that had me captivated by the first few chapters with its rich setting and intricate detail of emotions. I find most novels that have been translated from another language are often, well, lost in translation. But with SEASONS OF THE MOON, I found myself flying through the pages and getting lost in the story.
One thing this novel addressed throughout the entire story was the inequality of how men and women were treated. Women were not meant to have opinions or take part in anything serious. Men were not meant to be sensitive and kind, nothing more than soldiers made to kill.
I think Aranda did a wonderful job of discussing these topics, which are still relevant in our day. Men and women should be allowed to do and feel the same things.
Typically, when it comes to this time frame, I haven’t read about many male characters that are kind and sensitive (which is understandable with everything going on), so Paul was a breath of fresh air. He was a dreamer, always looking up to the moon, so full of hope despite the darkness of the world. And he actually acknowledged the inequality several times throughout the novel.
For my full review of this heartfelt historical fiction, click here: https://taylormaemarie.com/2017/09/15...
That is how I grew up, amid a whirlpool of emotions nipped in the bud, suppressed, without realizing that one day all the corpses at the bottom of the river would float to the surface.
One thing this novel addressed throughout the entire story was the inequality of how men and women were treated. Women were not meant to have opinions or take part in anything serious. Men were not meant to be sensitive and kind, nothing more than soldiers made to kill.
Women didn’t have much of a choice in those days. They were born, grew up helping their mothers, got married, had children, took care of the household tasks, then died, worn out by domestic chores. No emancipation or liberty; men determined everything. Only a few, more resilient women managed to succeed I’m this battle between the sexes.
I think Aranda did a wonderful job of discussing these topics, which are still relevant in our day. Men and women should be allowed to do and feel the same things.
Typically, when it comes to this time frame, I haven’t read about many male characters that are kind and sensitive (which is understandable with everything going on), so Paul was a breath of fresh air. He was a dreamer, always looking up to the moon, so full of hope despite the darkness of the world. And he actually acknowledged the inequality several times throughout the novel.
War is nothing but the bloody projection of a pained soul lashing out. Because when everything is going wrong, it’s easier to hate than to love, easier to pick up a weapon than to open one’s arms.
For my full review of this heartfelt historical fiction, click here: https://taylormaemarie.com/2017/09/15...
October 19, 2017
While this is historic fiction, it is so different from any historic fiction that I have ever read. This is a magical book and the language and the symbolism are amazing in it---which is amazing since this is translated from its original French version.
I loved the characters, I loved the story, I loved the artistry in the telling of the story, and I loved the philosphy, wisdom and symbolism in the story. But don't let the artistic nature of the book scare you away---it is a very readable book with a great story.
The central character was born into a hard life in 1929, in a small farming village in Brittany, France. At no time does he really fit into that life. He has a life-changing encounter while he is a teenager living in Nazi-occupied France. The rest of the story follows his life and his relationships.
I listened to it on Audible, and did not get a chance to highlight some favorite quotes, so I have copied some from another reviewer, MyMy. Here they are:
some quotes I liked :")
- "nature at work has no beauty but that which we gave it"
- "i somehow understood that my mother was my ally, my light in the darkness"
- "children cannot see their own hidden flaws, their own power struggles."
- "it's odd how distance sometimes effaces the dearest memories, refashioning them either through an idealizing filter or by omitting precious details"
- "true friendship is close to love, but without the carnal lust."
- "when you're a kid, you want to grow up fast. when you're older, you want to be a child again. i tell you, humanity has been built on a paradox since the very start. there's no logic to it. "
It is a great read---don't wait ---get our there and read it or listen to it!!!
I loved the characters, I loved the story, I loved the artistry in the telling of the story, and I loved the philosphy, wisdom and symbolism in the story. But don't let the artistic nature of the book scare you away---it is a very readable book with a great story.
The central character was born into a hard life in 1929, in a small farming village in Brittany, France. At no time does he really fit into that life. He has a life-changing encounter while he is a teenager living in Nazi-occupied France. The rest of the story follows his life and his relationships.
I listened to it on Audible, and did not get a chance to highlight some favorite quotes, so I have copied some from another reviewer, MyMy. Here they are:
some quotes I liked :")
- "nature at work has no beauty but that which we gave it"
- "i somehow understood that my mother was my ally, my light in the darkness"
- "children cannot see their own hidden flaws, their own power struggles."
- "it's odd how distance sometimes effaces the dearest memories, refashioning them either through an idealizing filter or by omitting precious details"
- "true friendship is close to love, but without the carnal lust."
- "when you're a kid, you want to grow up fast. when you're older, you want to be a child again. i tell you, humanity has been built on a paradox since the very start. there's no logic to it. "
It is a great read---don't wait ---get our there and read it or listen to it!!!
December 13, 2017
Seasons of the Moon by Julien Aranda (translated by Roland Glasser) is the one man’s story through life. Beginning with his birth, Paul Vertune was the youngest son of a farmer on the Brittany coast of France. From the very beginning, it was clear that Paul was not destined for a life as a farmer. From the age of 6, he dreamed of becoming a sailor and seeing the world. However, the world had other ideas. Soon World War II breaks out and his village is under German occupation. After a brief encounter with a German solider, who shows a young man in love mercy, Paul gives a promise that would he was determined to fulfill. He promises this German soldier to tell his daughter he loves her. At 18, Paul is drafted and spends his enlistment at the hands of a cruel drill sergeant. After his time in the army, he marries his childhood sweetheart, Mathilde, and sets out to fulfil his dream and his promise. Will he be able to find the German soldier’s daughter? Or will she be lost to the chaos in the aftermath of war?
Seasons of the Moon is a deeply retrospective, emotional story about the endless possibilities of life and finding the beauty in it all. While the book was slow in parts, I enjoyed reading Paul’s journey through life as he experiences life altering events which teach him that life is precious despite its hardships. It is a beautiful story of one man’s journey through life and his determination to fulfill a promise. I also enjoyed how Mr. Aranda used the phases of the moon as Paul enters a new phase in his life. I recommend Seasons of the Moon.
Seasons of the Moon
is available in paperback and eBook
Seasons of the Moon is a deeply retrospective, emotional story about the endless possibilities of life and finding the beauty in it all. While the book was slow in parts, I enjoyed reading Paul’s journey through life as he experiences life altering events which teach him that life is precious despite its hardships. It is a beautiful story of one man’s journey through life and his determination to fulfill a promise. I also enjoyed how Mr. Aranda used the phases of the moon as Paul enters a new phase in his life. I recommend Seasons of the Moon.
Seasons of the Moon
is available in paperback and eBook
August 17, 2017
Born into the life of a wheat farmer in rural France, Paul Vertune, from the time of his birth was different. He was a sensitive soul, who did not fit into his families plans for his life. Knowledge became his source of survival.
When Paul age 15 during WW ll, a Nazi soldier saves Paul from being captured, but now finds this same soldier captured, by his townsfolk and on his deathbed, the soldier before he dies asked Paul to please find his daughter and to let her know that her father loved her. Finding a photo of her in the soldiers pocket along with a name and town, this becomes a lifelong quest for Paul.
When Paul was a child he had an encounter with a sailor while on vacation, which made him want to someday take up that career. Always fascinated by the moon and the sea, he could not wait to be able to live that life, to be free and to see the world. Before he can fulfill his dream he has to do a stint in the military and after that gets married to a girl from his village. He and his wife move to Bordeaux, to start their life, have a child and to work on fulfilling his dream of sailing. Throughout the years he meets some fascinating people, and great friends who help him through his life.
A very emotional book, one where the main character Paul sees endless possibilities of life and finding the beauty of all that is offered to him.
Beautifully written and well translated this book with such a luscious cover is a wonderful read.
I would like to thank NetGalley and AmazonCrossing for the ARC of this book
When Paul age 15 during WW ll, a Nazi soldier saves Paul from being captured, but now finds this same soldier captured, by his townsfolk and on his deathbed, the soldier before he dies asked Paul to please find his daughter and to let her know that her father loved her. Finding a photo of her in the soldiers pocket along with a name and town, this becomes a lifelong quest for Paul.
When Paul was a child he had an encounter with a sailor while on vacation, which made him want to someday take up that career. Always fascinated by the moon and the sea, he could not wait to be able to live that life, to be free and to see the world. Before he can fulfill his dream he has to do a stint in the military and after that gets married to a girl from his village. He and his wife move to Bordeaux, to start their life, have a child and to work on fulfilling his dream of sailing. Throughout the years he meets some fascinating people, and great friends who help him through his life.
A very emotional book, one where the main character Paul sees endless possibilities of life and finding the beauty of all that is offered to him.
Beautifully written and well translated this book with such a luscious cover is a wonderful read.
I would like to thank NetGalley and AmazonCrossing for the ARC of this book
December 19, 2017
Underneath the pages of words within this book, one might find answers to questions you have not even asked. It is full of words not used very often and wisdom everyone can use, if only they can see through the obscured mist ahead of them.
Yes, you should pick up this book to see the near past. You will find yourself in France during the pre/ World War II days when no one could quite see the monster in their future. If you were An artist you would find reasons to worry. Because Nazi Germany was preparing to launch an attack on Degenerate Art. This was the atmosphere when three men from very different backgrounds became friends.
But these friends would not be best friends forever. Unbeknown to them there was a monster
Just waiting for an opportunity to happen. And when it did knock all three friends were in Nazi Germany.
What happens in Germany will change the worlds view of Nazi Germany. Art is removed from galleries and museums. What happens then is well documented. What happens is told in the remainder of the book.
However, I will give you the locale of the ending.
It ends at an auction house in North America.
The story of its journey from pre WW II Germany to an Auction House in North America will keep you on the edge of your seat. If you like to mix espionage with a love story and season it with culture, this could be the book for you. I sincerely hope so.
Yes, you should pick up this book to see the near past. You will find yourself in France during the pre/ World War II days when no one could quite see the monster in their future. If you were An artist you would find reasons to worry. Because Nazi Germany was preparing to launch an attack on Degenerate Art. This was the atmosphere when three men from very different backgrounds became friends.
But these friends would not be best friends forever. Unbeknown to them there was a monster
Just waiting for an opportunity to happen. And when it did knock all three friends were in Nazi Germany.
What happens in Germany will change the worlds view of Nazi Germany. Art is removed from galleries and museums. What happens then is well documented. What happens is told in the remainder of the book.
However, I will give you the locale of the ending.
It ends at an auction house in North America.
The story of its journey from pre WW II Germany to an Auction House in North America will keep you on the edge of your seat. If you like to mix espionage with a love story and season it with culture, this could be the book for you. I sincerely hope so.
January 25, 2018
I did not enjoy this book, and I couldn't wait to be done with it. The only thing that kept me going was that the basic premise was interesting, which I realised was the reason I bought this book in the first place. I bought this one on a whim again, like my previous read which turned out to be wonderful. My big lesson from this reading experience was a renewed appreciation of language and the power words can have IF used well. Language is a beautiful means to craft with, whether they are stories or poems or diary entries. They convey in infinite ways the gamut of emotions we go through, they have the strength to transport you to places on planes you may not otherwise experience. Unfortunately, this book did not do any of this for me.
The writing is simply too obvious. The author gives everything away leaving nothing to imagination. He tells you what to see and then tells you what it looks like and also what it means. He is too eager to share with you his profound discoveries of life with its ups and downs and adventures and dreams. The language is plain, often cliched, and not engaging. The author seemed to write dialogues better than narration, and there was one chapter about a ship in a storm that was well-written, but sadly too brief. I sound harsh, but I'm glad (sort of, maybe) that I read and finished it, because now I can start a new book that is hopefully better.
The writing is simply too obvious. The author gives everything away leaving nothing to imagination. He tells you what to see and then tells you what it looks like and also what it means. He is too eager to share with you his profound discoveries of life with its ups and downs and adventures and dreams. The language is plain, often cliched, and not engaging. The author seemed to write dialogues better than narration, and there was one chapter about a ship in a storm that was well-written, but sadly too brief. I sound harsh, but I'm glad (sort of, maybe) that I read and finished it, because now I can start a new book that is hopefully better.
September 6, 2017
I received this book from netgalley and AmazonCrossing in exchange for my honest review.
The book opens with the birth of our main character, Paul Vertune and follows him throughout his life. It reads like a memoir but Paul Vertune is a fictional character. The entire time I was pulling for Paul and became attached to him as well as the side character.
Unfortunately, the book seemed to drag on and felt very repetitive with his search to find the German Soldier's daughter, which is the a focal point of the story (not a spoiler, it is in the description). The side adventures were fun and entertaining. If the pacing was better I would give it a four.
I can see why so many people love this book because it does have a lot going for it and for that I give it a solid 3. It's not the best book but not a bad book either. If you like this genre give it a go and you might just love.
The book opens with the birth of our main character, Paul Vertune and follows him throughout his life. It reads like a memoir but Paul Vertune is a fictional character. The entire time I was pulling for Paul and became attached to him as well as the side character.
Unfortunately, the book seemed to drag on and felt very repetitive with his search to find the German Soldier's daughter, which is the a focal point of the story (not a spoiler, it is in the description). The side adventures were fun and entertaining. If the pacing was better I would give it a four.
I can see why so many people love this book because it does have a lot going for it and for that I give it a solid 3. It's not the best book but not a bad book either. If you like this genre give it a go and you might just love.
October 2, 2017
I was drawn to the initial description of this story "At the close of World War II, a chance encounter sets the course for one man’s destiny…"
This was so much more than a WWII novel, it was a beautiful meditation on life, fate, being true to yourself and thinking about how each decision you make, no matter how trivial, will shape the life that you live. This was the debut novel from french author, Julien Aranda, and it was positively hypnotic in it's thoughtfulness, yet it also had a charming simplicity. The book was subtle, yet powerful and a fairly short read. I found myself tearing through the pages and unable to put it down. Paul Vertune was a very special character, as were the people that came in and out of his life. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and I hope to read his future works.
I received a copy of this title from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
This was so much more than a WWII novel, it was a beautiful meditation on life, fate, being true to yourself and thinking about how each decision you make, no matter how trivial, will shape the life that you live. This was the debut novel from french author, Julien Aranda, and it was positively hypnotic in it's thoughtfulness, yet it also had a charming simplicity. The book was subtle, yet powerful and a fairly short read. I found myself tearing through the pages and unable to put it down. Paul Vertune was a very special character, as were the people that came in and out of his life. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and I hope to read his future works.
I received a copy of this title from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
January 13, 2018
I have thoroughly enjoyed reading the story of Paul Vertune's life. We start with his birth and finish with his death. There were many awesome quotes that summaries life... such as: "Love is one of the most beautiful things on earth, and its the only way to attain a deep sense of fulfillment and achieve the wisdom that lies so far beyond the everyday futilities that pollute our existence." The main character was quite interesting and I felt a connection with him. When he was young he always would smile, but was reproached for it. I went thru the same thing when I was a child, however, they managed to take it away. He was more resilient. "The day Mathilde died, I lost my smile, the smile people had reproached me for all my life, the smile I had worn since the day of my birth." The ending was, for me, a bit disappointing. Wont say why cause it would be a spoiler.
July 30, 2017
This was a beautiful story. Told as a memoir, we follow,the life story of Paul Verdune, the youngest son of a wheat farmer in France. Paul, unlike his 3 brothers, is gentler of spirit from his youth, thus his mother's favorite. He bears what he feels is the disapproval of his father. We follow through his adolescence during German occupation, his first love, military service and life at sea. Through it all, the heart of Verdune continues to struggle to overcome the early childhood lack of approval and to complete the mission to find Catherine, the daughter of a German soldier who spares his life. The translation is beautiful and the story captivating.
Full disclosure - I received a copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Full disclosure - I received a copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
September 8, 2017
Seasons of the Moon is historical fiction which follows the life of Paul Vertune from birth during the German occupation of France in WWII.
Paul is a highly sensitive child who is loved dearly by his mother, scorned by his father and has difficult relationships with his older brothers. Nothing he does can make his father proud of him and when he grows up he ultimately decides to leave the family wheat farming business and set out on his own.
This highly moving story takes you through his life from birth to death. It is a little slow moving but is filled with wonderful human insights, both sad and happy, that keep you wanting to read just a little more before going to sleep!
I was provided an e-arc by netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Paul is a highly sensitive child who is loved dearly by his mother, scorned by his father and has difficult relationships with his older brothers. Nothing he does can make his father proud of him and when he grows up he ultimately decides to leave the family wheat farming business and set out on his own.
This highly moving story takes you through his life from birth to death. It is a little slow moving but is filled with wonderful human insights, both sad and happy, that keep you wanting to read just a little more before going to sleep!
I was provided an e-arc by netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
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