Pull of the Stars
If you are looking for a light read that is sugar coated, you’re going to want to look elsewhere. If you are looking for a story that is real, raw, detailed and eye opening, then this book is for you. Emma Donoghue is going to give it to you straight without any pleasantries. Your eyes will be opened to the truth through this documentary style book as you learn about the reality of the times. The characters will be real and so will their circumstances.
"That’s what influenza means, she said. Influenza delle stelle—the influence of the stars. Medieval Italians thought the illness proved that the heavens were governing their fates, that people were quite literally star-crossed. I pictured that, the celestial bodies trying to fly us like upside-down kites. Or perhaps just yanking on us for their obscure amusement."
In Donoghue’s latest novel, you will find yourself transported back to 1918 Dublin, Ireland during the Great Influenza pandemic. As the influenza takes it’s hold, WWI is still raging in the background. Julia Powel is temporary acting head nurse for the ward that holds the pregnant women who have contracted the influenza. The hospital is woefully understaffed and is accepting volunteers off the street to help care for patients, and this is where a bit of light enters the story in the form of young Birdie.
Since the hospital is so understaffed, they are also willing to also accept women doctors into their ranks (not normal for the times). Doctor Kathrine Lynn joins the ranks of the hospital and brings her voice with her. She is an activist for women’s rights, Sinn Fein rebel, and currently wanted by the police. Kathrine’s character is based on a real woman during the same time (see the author’s notes…like you would ever skip them!?!)
Over a three day period, Julia, Birdie and Kathrine work together and share their stories.
I found myself engrossed as I began to have a glimpse of the far reaching repercussions of the influenza pandemic. The government sending mixed messages, the media having their own agenda and the disproportionate effect on the poor.
You can’t help but notice the similarities between the past and present in this sweeping tale. Shops were closed then as they were just this year, and areas seemingly completely deserted. I found myself noting that even 100 years later and through all the progress we have had in the medical field, we still found ourselves held hostage by a virus.
Not everything in this book was harsh. There was so much tenderness in the way that Julia and Birdie not only cared for the patients, but also in how they looked out for each other. Through their kindness the reader is reminded that there is always love and compassion within every human being.
This book isn’t for everyone. It is a slow burn that captures the true strength of the people of Dublin as they work to do their best in less than desirable circumstances, and stick together to accomplish as much as they can.
"Cover up each cough or sneeze......fools and traitors spread disease."
Much gratitude to Little Brown and Company and NetGalley for my advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
