The Nightingale Book Summary and Review

by: Sara Nigro

The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah is a tragic war story about difficult times and the effects it has on a persons character and their outlook on life. In this novel, one of the main characters Isabelle, is an adventurous young girl who is begging for excitement and to make a difference in the world, unlike her sister Vianne who is content with her life and wants it to stay just the way it is. When war strikes their home country of France, most of the men are sent off to war, including Vianne's husband Antione and Germany takes control of France. Throughout the next few years, the war continues, and Isabelle starts to take on a huge role in helping her country and as a result she learns how it feels to be loved by someone. Similarly, Vianne makes a difference in World War ll by saving Jewish children and taking care of her own to the best of her ability, despite what treacherous actions she must take. On account of the disastrous events that occur during these few years, Vianne and Isabelle test their limits, find out how strong they are, and figure out who they really are. 

Personally,  I loved this book and would definitely recommend it to others. I found it very interesting and enticing especially because of the relationship between Isabelle and Gäetan and the dangerous plot. At the beginning of the novel I wasn't hooked but as I continued reading I became very curious and anxious to find out what happened in the end. Therefore I think this was an appropriate, well-written book for summer reading.



The Nightingale by: Kristin Hannah