Ahoy there me mateys!  While drawin' up me lists of 2016 for me log, I realized a curious thing - out of 134 books read, not a single one was a re-read.  In me enthusiasm of discovery and taking suggestions from me crew, I did not revisit a single old port for plunder!  And part of what I love about readin' is re-visitin' old friends.  So I decided to remedy that and thus created this category where I take a second look at a previously enjoyed novel and give me crew me second reflections, as it were, upon visitin' it again . . .

Oh me hearties!  This book is so utterly mesmerizing, beautiful, and stunningly written.  I knew this but listening to it in audio book format was a complete delight.  I fell in love all over again.  I can say without a doubt that this is one of the best post-apocalyptic books I have ever read.  One of the best books period.  What struck me in this second read is how intricately intertwined the characters are and how the shifts in time and place are seamlessly done.

For those that haven't read this book (go get it now!), the basic premise is that the known world has collapsed from a virulent strain of flu.  The surviving people are flung far and wide in varied settlements that each have their own rules and standards.  Amenities like internet, reliable medicine, or electrical power are non-existent.  Travel is hazardous but among those that dare are a travelling caravan that trades its artistic talent.  Like touring troupes of ole, these performers play symphonic pieces and recite Shakespeare.

Of course being the theatre lover that I am, me favourite character continues to be Kirsten, a member of the acting troupe.  I loved how ye are shown her various stages of life.  In general I found all the characters to be interesting.  What is also interesting in how this book feels so positive in overall outlook even though bad things often happen.  This book is way more complicated then I have made it seem.  I don't have the vocabulary to explain further and don't want to spoil it.  But I will be readin' this again in the future.  If yer past doesn't include having read this tale then I suggest ye add it into yer future reading!

Side note: Doesn't the author have a delightfully delicious name?  Arrr!

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