Skip to main content
PBS logo
 
 

Book Review of A Bell for Adano

A Bell for Adano
A Bell for Adano
Author: John Hersey
Book Type: Hardcover
reviewed on + 1438 more book reviews


It's a Pulitzer prize winner and deservedly so. This is the story of an American major in the army in charge of a town in Italy after the Americans have driven out the enemy. His job is to help the town recover from the terror and oppression that its citizens have endured. And, he does it, one small decision at a time. He is fair, considerate and a good listener. His efforts help the town's people understand that there are both good and bad Americans, including general whose decisions serve only his desires without thought to the consequences. Major Joppolo becomes a hero and well respected but his efforts are not without difficulty. This is a wonderful read about how one person can make a difference. I totally enjoyed it.