2025 Reading Challenge discussion

This thread is to discuss The Island of Books by Dominique Fortier.

Pages: 176 pages

Length: 1 month (November)

Participants: Lorraine, Valerie

Everyone reads at their own pace during a Buddy Read. Because participants can be at different parts of the book at different times, it is extremely important to mark spoilers so that the book is not ruined for someone who is not as far along as others!!!

Mark spoilers by placing {spoiler} before the text and {/spoiler} after the text but use the < and > instead of the { and }.

Chapter 11 (42%). It took a bit to get used to the movement between the central story, the history of the monastery, and the writer’s own recollections but it seems to work. I have been to Mont St Michel but it was many years ago - I do remember being very impressed seeing it rising up in the sea but the rest of my memories are pretty hazy. In the story, there are several mysteries that are intriguing me, particularly the hemlock. Definitely enjoying it so far.

I'm about two-thirds through the book and find it nearly impossible to put down—I want to finish it in one sitting! My husband has Mont Saint-Michel on his list of must-see places, and after reading this, I'm seriously considering a trip next year. I’m a bit envious of you for already experiencing it! In this story, Mont Saint-Michel almost feels like one of the characters, adding such depth to the narrative. Like her previous book, I’m thoroughly impressed by the author’s talent, and now I want to read everything she’s written—even her poetry collection!

I’m hoping to finish the book today, but since we're heading to my in-laws this afternoon, it might not be possible. I’ll definitely share my thoughts once we're back home, though!

Finished. A fascinating little book. I loved all the the parts based around Mont St Michel, her memories, the history, and the story. My only quibbles would be that I felt the part set in Maine felt a bit clumsy and I would have liked more of the story (especially about Clement). That said, it was a very enjoyable and educational read, beautifully written as always. I noticed that it was the same translator as And the birds rained down. She’s very good at capturing a writer’s style and beauty of prose that, in both cases, is quite poetic.