Monday, February 12, 2007

Bel Canto Bel Canto by Ann Patchett explores the subject of hostages and terrorists. The story takes place in an unnamed South American country. The government wants a Japanese factory to build there, so they invite the President of the company to a party to honor his birthday. He has no intention of building in that country, but he is an opera aficionado and when a famous soprano is hired to perform at the party he agrees to come. The President of the country does not attend the party so he can watch his soap opera, but the terrorists don't know this when they are making their plans. They take over the house and want to kidnap the President, but are disappointed that he isn't there, so they take all the guests hostage. They eventually let all the staff and women go, except for the opera singer. She doesn't let the captors intimidate her and demands different things. As time passes, the hostages and terrorists get to know one another. The book explores how they change their minds about each other. When the government finally makes a move, you are left wondering who exactly are the terrorists. It was a very good book. 4:18:55 PM

© Copyright 2008 Jocelyn Shaw. Last update: 11/18/2008; 2:36:14 PM. Photo curtesy of Marjorie O'Brien