Scan barcode
A review by sydna_lowe
The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett
adventurous
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Wow. What a book. This is probably one of the densest books I’ve ever read. I can’t even imagine writing this epic story - it was enough just to read it!
I was very skeptical about reading a book set in the 12th century. Could it possibly be interesting?! Well yes, of course it could be! Turns out 12th century stories provide an endless amount of drama, romance, and adventure. I learned quite a lot of history I otherwise never would have known. Plus, the underlying message of Christianity was quite impressive - intentional or not.
Critically speaking, this book could’ve been shorter. Some of the drama felt a bit repetitive. Like really, the town is going to get burned down again?! But that also just contributes to the epic nature of this book so I’m OK with it overall.
Favorite character by far is Aliena. What a woman!
Favorite quote was on page 295. Philip is talking to Tom Builder. “…God demands the best we have to offer, that which is most precious to us. Is this design the best thing you could offer God?” … “Then rest easy. God will accept it.”
I was very skeptical about reading a book set in the 12th century. Could it possibly be interesting?! Well yes, of course it could be! Turns out 12th century stories provide an endless amount of drama, romance, and adventure. I learned quite a lot of history I otherwise never would have known. Plus, the underlying message of Christianity was quite impressive - intentional or not.
Critically speaking, this book could’ve been shorter. Some of the drama felt a bit repetitive. Like really, the town is going to get burned down again?! But that also just contributes to the epic nature of this book so I’m OK with it overall.
Favorite character by far is Aliena. What a woman!
Favorite quote was on page 295. Philip is talking to Tom Builder. “…God demands the best we have to offer, that which is most precious to us. Is this design the best thing you could offer God?” … “Then rest easy. God will accept it.”
Content Warnings
Graphic: Rape
Moderate: Violence, Murder, and War
Minor: Cursing