I was going to read this book because of the rave reviews and gorgeous title and cover, but then I thought maybe I wouldn't because I am not really that into historical fiction or just fiction-fiction and there are so many books to read in the world. Then my brother raved about it and decided I should read it as our first book club book (for our two person book club we are starting) and that was good enough for me. I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly I became immersed in this story. The pacing was quick for a story that isn't particularly action packed, and I loved how short and sweet each chapter was. I enjoyed the strong themes of wonder at the physical world that the two protagonists shared, and the way their stories contrasted and aligned in delicate ways. A powerful set of coming of age stories set to a frightening time in our world's history, this was a good read.