Book Review: Held by Anne Michaels

~ Book Club Mom

Held
by
Anne Michaels

Rating: 4.5 out of 5.

I tore through this unusual and beautifully written book that begins on a French battlefield in 1917, and covers four generations. Through her characters, memories, and dreams, the author explores the human connection to nature and the supernatural, to answer timeless questions about the meaning of life and our past generations.

Published in 2024, Held was shortlisted for the Booker Prize, received The Giller Prize, and was named a New York Times Best Historical Novel of the Year.

We first meet John, an injured soldier on a French battlefield in 1917. As he lies in the snow, he recalls how he met his artist wife, Helena, how random it was, and how deeply he loves her. Upon his return home, John resumes his job as a studio photographer, but he has changed and struggles to find purpose in his life. Then he discovers an eerie connection to the dead.

The story continues as each generation must carry on with imperfect lives. War is always in the background, referenced but not specifically defined. Throughout, each character must find meaning in the face of grief and sacrifice.

I don’t really know how to describe this book. I really connected with it! Every sentence is poetic, inviting you to think hard about its meaning. I felt the emotions of all the characters as they struggle to survive in uncertain times.

I highly recommend Held to readers who like deep-thinking stories about characters who yearn to connect with the past. Anne Michaels is a Canadian novelist and poet and author of Fugitive Pieces and The Winter Vault.

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