Search - The Cloud Atlas

A less-than-compelling look at twisted relationships. Not one of my favorites.

A morality play of conflicted emotions, faith, and fidelity set against the vastness of pre-War Alaska. By turns amusing and heartbreaking, it had me hooked after the first few pages.

I really enjoyed this book. Mainly set during the Japanese bombing of Alaska during World War II, it gives us a glimpse into a time that we don't hear much about. This is mostly told as a story from an old Catholic priest to dying old Yup'ik Eskimo shaman. The main characters lies about his age to join the army where, after proving to be the worst shot ever, he becomes a member of the bomb disarmament squad and is sent to Alaska for a top secret mission. In Alaska, everyone he meets seems to be crazy to varying degrees. The story is filled with insanity, love, spiritualism, violence, and magic, all told through the eyes of innocence. I never knew what was coming next. Great book!