Book Review #2

Pillars of the Earth
(Reviewed as a Staff Writer for my college newspaper)

Ken Follett’s epic novel “Pillars of the Earth” contains all the ingredients of a great read: mystery, ambition, sex, love, betrayal, religious strife, suspense, and corruption woven in a tapestry of fact and fiction.

Weary stonemason Tom Builder is fired by a sadistic lord and is destitute. It is his journey to find work that leads him to his dream. Set in 12th century England, “Pillars of the Earth” introduces us to a tumultuous intertwining of characters whose lives are centered in the town of Kingsbridge and the building of a grand cathedral for the priory.

Follett’s use of historical events engages readers as his characters traverse an era of civil war, a time in English history referred to as The Anarchy. Follett burst on to the scene in 1978 with “Eye of the Needle”, a thriller, which was made into a movie a few years later. With 17 best selling thrillers under his belt, Follett deviated from his usual genre and created a masterpiece.

I was captured by “Pillars of the Earth.” It was hard to put down. I felt like a voyeur peering into the lives of the people of Kingsbridge. I have read it twice and both times was sad when it came to an end. The long awaited sequel was recently released. I can’t wait to return to Kingsbridge and take a peek.