mooncrab's review against another edition
2.0
What Danny endured is horrific, and Mariane’s helpless battle is sickening. This book is depressing, scary, and bleak; the writing is journalistic, almost vague and often confusing. There really are too many characters, situations, events and places to keep track of for the story to be effective. Moreover, the essence of this story gets lost within the details. This is not “A House in the Sky,” which I was hoping it would be like (obviously without the happy ending). I truly ache for Mariane and Adam’s loss, as well as the tragic end of Daniel’s beautiful life. From the book, I can understand how immense of a loss it is. I just didn’t engage with the recounting of it all in this book format.
booksandbecoming's review against another edition
4.0
a difficult read, because this is such a sad story. heartfelt, engrossing.
debi246's review against another edition
4.0
I had to hold back the tears during SSR today. Very sad.
jmkmirkes's review against another edition
5.0
A heartbreaking read that pulls you into the search for Danny Pearl. Even though I knew Danny's fate, I still held my breath (and hope) until the very end.
andreamgc's review against another edition
5.0
I was actually incredibly intrigued by this story. It was heart pounding and then heartbreaking. I really enjoyed Mariane's sincere narrative and painful reminiscence of a terrifying time.
enbybooklove's review against another edition
5.0
Mariane Pearl might just be the most inspiring individual I've ever encountered. If she really did react to her husband's disappearance the way she describes, that is - but through her faith, I really think she did. The book does a great job of telling the tragic story, through which she shines.
lisa_h71's review against another edition
5.0
This book is wonderfully written and quite compelling, considering the outcome is known from the beginning. The letters of condolences included at the end were very touching. I find myself admiring Mariane Pearl quite a lot for her courage.
thegowdenlocksofanna's review against another edition
5.0
This book is, of course, an amazing story of hope in a situation of despair which is impossible for most human beings to imagine. I have a great admiration for Mariane Pearl and for everyone involved in the operation to rescue her husband. I must say that I do not agree with her on an ideological level when it comes to the 'clash of civilizations' thesis. However, I understand its appeal and how, as a journalist, it is very easy and perhaps necessary to view the world through such a lens.
If you're looking for a book that will induce for both laughter and intense tears as well as an inspiring message of hope and tolerance, then this book is for you.
If you're looking for a book that will induce for both laughter and intense tears as well as an inspiring message of hope and tolerance, then this book is for you.
mara_miriam's review against another edition
2.0
While a fascinating story, the fact that a lot of the content was already public information, meant that the book felt rather repetitive. Additionally, the quality of the writing was sub par and results in a lack of connection between the author and the reader; the author may have had better results writing in French and in translation. Finally, the letters to the Pearl Family at the end of the book were redundant and felt rather self-serving.