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The Fall of the Stone City

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( 1,663 ratings, 206 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
In The Fall of the Stone City by Ismail Kadare, the story unfolds in GjirokastΓ«r, Albania, during World War II. As the city faces an impending Nazi occupation, it plunges into a surreal and darkly comic series of events. This narrative explores themes of war, betrayal, and the absurdities of history, while delving into the complex lives of the townspeople caught in these turbulent times.
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you appreciate stories set against the backdrop of historical events, as it vividly portrays the tension and intrigue of World War II's impact on a small Albanian city. The narrative skilfully blends dark humour with the complexities of political and personal conflicts, making it a compelling read for those interested in the intersection of history and human resilience.

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In September 1943, German soldiers advance on the ancient gates of Gjirokaster, Albania. It is the first step in a carefully planned invasion. But once at the mouth of the city, the troops are taken aback by a surprising act of rebellion that leaves the citizens fearful of a bloody counter-attack.

* Will attract widespread review coverage in Australian and New Zealand publications such as the Age, Sydney Morning Herald, Australian, Listener, Dominion Post and the Monthly * Supported by a social media campaign * Featured in the Text newsletter and on the Text website * Reading copies available

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

In September 1943, German soldiers advance on the ancient gates of Gjirokaster, Albania. It is the first step in a carefully planned invasion. But once at the mouth of the city, the troops are taken aback by a surprising act of rebellion that leaves the citizens fearful of a bloody counter-attack.

Soon rumours circulate, in cafes, houses and alleyways, that the Nazi Colonel in command of the German Army was once a school acquaintance of a local dignitary, Doctor Gurameto. In the town square, Colonel von Schwabe greets his former classmate warmly; in return, Doctor Gurameto invites him to dinner.

The very next day, the Colonel and his army disappear from the city. The dinner at Gurameto's house changes the course of events in twentieth-century Europe. But as the citizens celebrate their hero, a conspiracy surfaces which leads some to place Gurametoβ€”and the stone cityβ€”at the heart of a plot to undermine Socialism.

Enigmatic and compelling, The Fall of the Stone City displays Ismail Kadare at the height of his considerable powers.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

_The Fall of the Stone City_ has been praised for its dark and beguiling storytelling, reflecting Ismail Kadare's status as a master of literature. Critics highlight Kadare's powerful narrative and his ability to combine entertainment with deep thought, affirming his position as one of the world's greatest living writers. The book is celebrated for its sinister and thought-provoking themes, encapsulated in a gripping and concise novella.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781922079282

Publisher: Text Publishing

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 22 August 2012

Country: Australia

Imprint: The Text Publishing Company

Edition: New edition

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 128.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 250g

Pages: 176

About the Author

Ismail Kadare is the author of The Accident, Chronicle in Stone, The Siege and The Successor.

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