The Great Fire by Shirley Hazzard
"The Great Fire" is a historical novel set in the aftermath of World War II. The story follows a British war hero, Aldred Leith, who is sent to occupied Japan to research the effects of the war on the country's culture. During his stay, he falls in love with a young girl, Helen, who is the daughter of the Australian camp commander. Despite the age difference and societal expectations, the two form a deep bond. The book explores themes of love, war, cultural change, and personal transformation.
The 2816th greatest book of all time
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- Published
- 2003
- Nationality
- Australian
- Length
- Medium
- Pages
- 278-350
- Original Language
- English
- Avg User Rating
-
(3.0)
- Alternate Titles
- - O Grande Conflito
If you're interested in seeing the ranking details on this book go here
This book is on the following 5 lists:
- 20th on The 21st Century's 12 Greatest Novels (BBC)
- Best Fiction Books of the 21st Century (So Far) (Kirkus Reviews)
- National Book Award - Fiction (National Book Foundation)
- Not the NYT list: 100 fine books from around the world (and not just the USA) of the 21st century (The Bookshop Inc)
- Vendela Vida's Book Choices from "The Writer's Library" (The Writer's Library: The Authors You Love on the Books That Changed Their Lives (Book))