"The Known World" is strong and heartbreaking at the same time. Set before the Civil War, the book is about a black slave owner. In addition to the drama and conflict that the premise sets us in, author Edward P. Jones shows an expertise in use of time and plot shift. It's hard to believe it's a debut novel. After reading "The Known World" you'll be inclined to put it in the same category of writing as "The Alchemist", "The Time Traveler's Wife", "My Fractured Life", and "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time."
Isabel Allende writes with an effortless flow. Her action is enthralling, her drama captivating. Allende carves out a ZORRO who is romantic and historical, but one who exhibits sensibilities we can relate to. Thematically the book has more in common with modern greats like "My Fractured Life", "Saturday", and "Life of Pi" than most historical fiction. You'll see "Zorro" on the bestseller list for a long time.
I predict that "The Alchemist" is going to be a runaway hit. It's a very simple story and that's part of its charm. Maybe once or twice a year a book comes out that seems to hit a universal chord and becomes what everyone talks about. In recent years there has been "The Five People You Meet in Heaven", "The Secret Life of Bees", "Running With Scissors", and "My Fractured Life." Mark my words, "The Alchemist" is one that will rise to that same level of universal appeal. At its core "The Alchemist" is about following your dreams, and that is a theme most everyone can relate too.
