This book is the first in a quartet of novels and a set of short stories collectively known as the “Cemetery of Forgotten Books” series. It was translated from Spanish by Lucia Graves, Robert Graves’s daughter, and runs to 403 pages.
The main plot and many sub-plots are set in a gothic, mist shrouded, Barcelona in the post-war Franco era. The principle parallel plot witnesses the pre-war world and the beginning of the Spanish Civil War. The story follows the protagonist, Daniel Sempere, as he grows from a ten year old to the beginnings of maturity, via a great deal of action and impulsive initiative. His life is increasingly gripped by the influence of a book, by shadowy author Julian Carex, he selected from the seemingly magical Cemetery of Forgotten Books, during a visit with his bookseller father.
A quest is at the centre of the story, which is dominated by action and description. The author clearly had a passion for his home city and here he produces a mainly nocturnal Barcelona which oozes dark atmosphere and lurking threat worthy of Edgar Allen Poe and Wilkie Collins. There are a central core of characters and many supporting ones, overall there is more than a faint Dickensian resonance, as Daniel encounters a world of mystery, suspense and a web of intrigue with innocence, impetuosity and an innate thirst for the truth. Contrast is depicted during the daytime scenes when the city and local communities cast off the dark and come alive with their own energy.
There is a significant metafictional element present with the role of literature in society and individual lives being discussed, via many aphorisms and implication. This is especially pertinent in the context of characters living in a creaking authoritarian society, where power disdains and is afraid of free writing and living.
Zafon spent some time as a Hollywood screenwriter, which clearly aided his confidence. Some of the dialogue, however, can be glib and characterisation stretched, especially between Daniel and his sidekick and wise-cracking protector Fermin, who seems to have at least nine lives! Though I suppose there is so much story to develop, so much darkness (and violence) to be counter-balanced, the wheels have to be oiled and balance maintained. Also, it is, I admit it, entertaining.
A world and a publishing phenomenon has been created by Zafon, who wrote with an eye for the reader and a respect for literature in its wider role. Despite, or because of, the intricate story an immersive read, ideal for lazy days or long evenings.
Mark's Reviews 