November's Discussion

First, I'd like to thank everyone who came last night and to Aimee who chose such an interesting read. To all those who were unable to attend we missed you terribly and we hope that you enjoyed the book.
Although, the book received mixed reviews- mainly because Bertrand was such a boor- it was clear that this book was a compelling read for everyone. Sarah's Key is not something that one can just casually and mindlessly read. This book sucks you in and will not let you put it down until the end.
Tatiana de Rosnay's use of alternating time periods is what, I believe, made such an awful story a little easier to understand. Her character Julia Jarmond is contemporary and we learn right along with her about the life of Sarah Starzynski and the awful events of July 16, 1942 known as the Vel d'Hiv. Discovering how little was known about the Rafle (roundup)especially in France was very eye opening.
This book made me think about what I don't know about in my nation's history. A lot I am sure but because of where I come from (religiously and geographically)I think I may know more than others. For instance outside my religious community I am pretty certain that most Americans have no idea that there was ever an extermination order out against Mormons.
So it goes I guess but I am grateful that I can learn about these events in a way that allows me to have other's to discuss it with.
Finally, I think that more important than the tragedy that occurred at the center of the story is the idea of how damaging family secrets can be. Neither the Tezac family nor Sarah's family benefit from the secrets they all kept. In the end the pain saturated everyone and the secret coming out was the only cathartic event that could allow understanding to occur.

FYI a movie was just released in France in October called Elle s'appelait Sarah (Her name was Sarah)

Ladies thanks so much for a great chat and can't wait to see you next month for Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. Very different story! Also let me know if you'd like to do a book exchange for a holiday type spin? I was considering just limiting it to $5 or less or just a Goodwill book or one you want to relinquish. Let me know.