Perla by Carolina De Robertis is why I read books. Mesmerizing, poetic, enthralling, emotionally consuming, and heart breaking, Perla touched my heart, opened my mind and then reminded me of the power of hope and redemption.
Perla is a young woman in Argentina, born during the "Dirty War" in the late 1970's and early 1980's. 30,000 civilians disappeared at the hands of the military regime. Perla's father is just one of the Navy officers granted immunity for the terrible crimes against humanity. Perla, shunned by classmates as a girl, alternately loves and hates her parents for their involvement. Now, a stranger will help her grow and become who she is meant to be.
I was ashamed to just learn about this time in history. It took place during my own lifetime, yet I had never heard of the atrocities and horrors committed against those who dared speak out against the coup. I mentioned it to Utah Dad. I shouldn't have been surprised that he knew much about it. He did study history, after all.
De Robertis is a poet. In haunting, yet beautiful language, she reveals a period of recent history that is shocking, horrifying and heart breaking. The novel is, at times, graphic but always true to the painful conflict and ultimate healing of Perla.
**I received a complimentary copy of Perla in exchange for an honest review. No additional compensation was received.**
I didn't know that part of history either! --I have to get this book!! Perla's my mom's name (my daughter's middle name) ..perfect-ish Mother's Day gift ..story may not be her type of book but she'd appreciate the title. :) --Thanks for the review ..personally I'm intrigued.
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