Every Time We Say Goodbye — book by Natalie Jenner

I am generally hesitant about fiction that weaves existing known people into a novel, as is often difficult to separate what is real from what is not. But this author touches lightly on the actual people while more deeply focusing on the fictional ones. I’d never heard of her previous books. Yes, it works as a stand-alone novel, but I do wish I’d read them first, mainly because now I’m very interested.

She has a literary writing style, yet it’s quite accessible and has a rhythm that’s easy to follow.

I was engrossed by both the story and the lives of the characters, but what most impressed me was the author’s insights. Whether I was reading about screenwriting, Italy or post-WWII challenges, it “felt” genuine. This is also true for offhand observations about life itself. Here are some quotes which moved me to highlight:

“Such was the power of awe to ennoble and inspire, to subdue and control-something both the film and church were founded on.”

or concerning post-war Italy: “…the sun was setting … above the sea and beaches where young men had once landed to rescue a country from itself …”

or “Our secrets are who we really are.”

one last one, then I’ll stop — “With some people, the past did not exist because they had not been changed by it.”

I am not saying I totally agree with all observations, but truly liked that they were at least thought provoking.

There are many, many characters and the author wisely added a “who’s who” type of preface. Had she not, I probably would have given up early on.

And finally — yes, this book really touched me. But as with all art, there is no way truly break down why — it simply did. Looking forward to reading more of Jenner’s work.