134 pages 4 hours read

Ruta Sepetys

The Fountains of Silence: A Novel

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2019

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Fountains of Silence by Ruta Sepetys, set in 1957 Madrid, follows Ana, a hotel worker burdened by family poverty and the oppressive Franco regime. Ana's life intertwines with Daniel, an American aspiring photojournalist, sparking a forbidden love. Eighteen years later, after Franco's death, they reunite, revealing long-hidden truths about stolen children and enduring hope amid historical trauma.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Ruta Sepetys' The Fountains of Silence skillfully portrays post-Civil War Spain, weaving a rich narrative with thorough historical research. Critics praise the novel's compelling characters, vivid descriptions, and poignant themes of familial and political tension. Some, however, feel its pacing can be slow, and its ending a bit contrived. Overall, it's a powerful, evocative read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Fountains of Silence?

The ideal reader for The Fountains of Silence by Ruta Sepetys enjoys historical fiction that delves into deeply emotional, human stories set against significant historical backdrops. Fans of Markus Zusak's The Book Thief and Kristin Hannah's The Nightingale will appreciate its rich narrative and exploration of Spain under Franco's rule.

RecommendedReading Age

14-18years

Lexile Level

HL620L

Book Details

Genre

Historical Fiction

Romance

Topics

Military / War

History: World