Monday, May 21, 2012


Fall of Giants
by Ken Follett

   Readers who have read Ken Follett’s sweeping epics, “Pillars of the Earth” and “World Without End” know how well Mr. Follett weaves personal stories into immense historical dramas that enlighten our views of previous eras. Now, Follett has turned his considerable literary prowess to the 19th century in “Fall of Giants”, the first of the Century Trilogy. In this (another massive volume of 985 pages) the author explores the roots of the conflict that become World War I – and the consequences of that conflict on the 19th century with repercussions into the present day.
   In order to portray the major perspectives and allegiances that precipitated the conflict and influenced its direction, Follett’s novel follows the experiences of a Welch coal mining family and the earl who rules over them; a German aristocrat who secretly loves and marries a British society suffragette; and two Russian sons of a revolutionary father who was hanged for his views. By extension, we also view the world of the servants in the great houses of the powerful and see the war from the perspective of ground troops, intelligence officers, commanders, politicians, diplomats, and new immigrants to America. We see the desperate plight of the poor and, particularly, of women who struggle to survive while relegated to a lower rung on the pay scale and in society unless a fortunate marriage comes their way. We see the great contrasts between the wealthy and powerful and those who toil to survive while supporting the economy that makes such great wealth possible. Follett also used historical events to illustrate how well-intentioned movements can go tragically wrong.
   Interweaving memorable fictional characters with historical facts and actual historic players, Follett’s saga gives us a fresh understanding of the rising democracy movements, the Russian revolution, labor union struggles, working conditions of the lower classes and the cause of women’s suffrage. Students of history will also be interested in Follett’s detailed account of the political maneuvering and bungled opportunities that turn a small incident into a war that involves all of Europe and impacts nations around the world. Those who personally participate in the war illustrate the realities of life on the fronts and in the trenches.
   Why “Fall of Giants”? By the book’s end in 1924, the comfortable crowned heads of Europe are all removed from their positions of power and society has undergone huge change. Book two in the Century Trilogy, “The Winter of the World,” will follow the descendents of the five families introduced in “Giants” from the end of World War I to the Great Depression, World War II and, finally, The Cold War.
  “Fall of Giants” is a huge book but a compelling read that will keep you happily turning the pages on a long winter night. Don’t let its sheer size and scope cause you to hesitate – it is a great read and it offers insights for our day by providing a sweeping vista into western society’s not-too-distant past. This big book tells a very big story that will educate and enlighten you while it entertains.
   Ken Follett was only twenty-seven when he wrote the award-winning “Eye of the Needle”, which became an international bestseller. He has since written many successful novels. He lives with his family in London and Hertfordshire.

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