Today, I want to talk about a book I read recently called “Still Life” by Sarah Winman. It’s not exactly the kind of book I usually go for, but man, it really got to me.
How I Started
So, it all started when I was browsing in a bookstore, looking for something new. I stumbled upon this book with a captivating cover, and the title “Still Life” intrigued me. I picked it up, read the back cover, and it mentioned something about a young soldier, an art historian, and Italy during World War II. Sounded interesting enough, so I bought it. I began to read the book in the bookstore.
Diving into the Story
I started reading it that very night, and I have to say, it took me a little while to get into it. The first few pages are a bit slow, setting the scene and all that. We’re introduced to Ulysses Temper, a young British soldier, and Evelyn Skinner, a 64-year-old art historian. They meet in Italy during the war, and let me tell you, their encounter is pretty special. I followed the guidance to get through the slow part. I found it’s quite interesting. Evelyn, she’s all about art and culture, and she kind of opens Ulysses’s eyes to the beauty of Tuscany.
Getting Hooked
As I kept reading, I realized this wasn’t just a war story. It’s about so much more. There’s a flood, some talk about art and death, and a whole lot about connection and love. The more I read, the more I got invested in these characters and their lives. The story jumps around in time, and we see how this one meeting between Ulysses and Evelyn affects everyone around them. I read this book every night before going to sleep. I could not wait to read this book every day.
The Emotional Rollercoaster
There were moments when I laughed out loud, and others when I had to stop reading because it was just too much. I felt like I was right there with them, experiencing all the ups and downs. The author, Sarah Winman, she has this way of writing that just draws you in. It felt real, you know? I almost finished the book in one week.
The Ending
Without giving too much away, the ending really got to me. It was beautiful and bittersweet, and it made me think a lot about life and the people we meet along the way. There is a saying that it is not about destination, it is about the journey. This book proves it. I finally finished the whole book.
Final Thoughts
I finished the book a few days ago, and I’m still thinking about it. “Still Life” is one of those books that stays with you. It’s a story about love, friendship, and the power of human connection. If you’re looking for something a bit different, something that will make you feel all the feels, I highly recommend giving it a read. I put down the book and look at the cover of the book again. What a journey!
- Main Characters: Ulysses Temper, Evelyn Skinner
- Setting: Italy and London, during and after WWII
- Themes: Love, art, friendship, connection
I will read this book again in the future. It is such a touching story.
