I Capture the Castle - Dodie Smith
This is the debut novel from the author that wrote the much
acclaimed children’s classic One Hundred and One Dalmatians but in my opinion this is her greatest
novel. It was one of the first books I ever got out of the school
library when I was only seven and I was devastated when I had to return the
book before I finished it. My parents could see how much I wanted to
finish the book so they brought me the audio book so I could listen to it when
I went to sleep. Usually I do not like romances but this is not a
love story, it is a marriage story in a time when marriage was the way out of
poverty. It follows two sisters, Cassandra and Rose
who live in a rundown castle. Cassandra writes her life in three dairies and creates the famous opening line...
Her observations of those around her are insightful but it is surprising how
she often fails to see the truth of her own life. The protagonist Cassandra is
a similar age to me so although this book was written over fifty years ago it was
so easy to relate to. This novel is jovial at times but is always hindered by
the deeper underlying issues. The ending is very unexpected but seems fitting
as another ending would have tarnished the story. I would recommend this novel as
it has followed me throughout my life and every time I read it a new meaning
uncovers itself.
Do you have a book that you have kept re-reading to find new meanings in it? I would love to hear about them!
Lots of Love
Elouise
xxx
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