Name:  Annette L.

Date:  May 18, 2008 

Book Report   

• Title of Book:  The Shadow of the Wind 
• Author:  Carlos Ruiz Zafon 

Setting: Where does this story take place? Barcelona 1945; the Cemetery of Forgotten Books; an abandoned and "haunted" mansion; and a fascinating twisted trail leading to the answer to the mystery.

Main Characters:  Give a brief description of each character. Use words like kind, lonely, helpful, gets into trouble, etc.

Separate these words with commas.

Summary:  Write a summary about the story. Don't retell the whole story.  This book was originally published in Spanish, the native language of its author.  I heard about the book when it was flying atop the best sellers' list in Spain and was so intrigued by its premise.  When it was translated into English I was Johnny on the spot, I can tell you.

The story begins when Daniel's father, an antiquarian book dealer, takes him to the ultra-secret Cemetery of Forgotten Books.  Here is what Daniel learns from his father: " This is a place of mystery, Daniel, a sanctuary.  Every book, every volume you see here has a soul.  The soul of the person who wrote it..."  "When a library disappears or a book shop closes down, when a book is consigned to oblivion, those of us who know this place, its guardians, make sure that it gets here."   "According to tradition, the first time someone visits this place he must choose a book..and adopt it and make sure that it will..always stay alive."  "Today it's your turn."

Of course, Daniel selects The Shadow of the Wind.      

Now, I am just going to quote from the flyleaf because it summarizes the book very well. 

"An uncannily absorbing historical mystery, a heart-piercing romance, and a moving homage to the mystical 
power of books.  The Shadow of the Wind is a triumph of the storyteller's art."

Conclusion: How did the story end ?  In a very satisfying manner.  Mysteries are solved and traditions are passed on.


Did you like the book? Why or Why not?  The book gets five stars from me, my highest rating.  The premise of the book makes you abandon the "real" world and fall head first into the world of "make-believe".  I had no trouble at all doing that and as I sit here today I am totally convinced that although I don't know its exact location, the Cemetery for Forgotten Books and the story that came out of that place exist.

Entertain yourself!  Read the book.