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The War Artist

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( 132 ratings, 20 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
The War Artist by Simon Cleary follows Brigadier James Phelan as he faces the psychological aftermath of a violent incident overseas. Upon returning home, he meets an intriguing artist named Katch who challenges him to confront his suppressed emotions through art. This touching novel explores themes of trauma, love, and personal healing.
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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 a gripping blend of historical and contemporary themes, exploring the impact of war through personal stories. It's ideal for readers who are drawn to character-driven narratives that delve into art, memory, and the emotional scars left by conflict.

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A timely and compelling novel about the legacy of war, the power of art and the possibility of atonement.

The most important novel about the legacy of war since Richard Flanagan's The Narrow Road to the Deep North

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

The most important novel about the legacy of war since Richard Flanagan's The Narrow Road to the Deep North.

When Brigadier James Phelan returns from Afghanistan with the body of a young soldier killed under his command, he is traumatised by the tragedy. An encounter with young Sydney tattoo artist Kira leaves him with a permanent tribute to the soldier, but it is a meeting that will change the course of his life. What he isn't expecting is a campaign of retribution from the soldiers who blame him for the ambush and threaten his career. With his marriage also on the brink, his life spirals out of control.

Years later, Phelan is surprised when Kira re-enters his life seeking refuge from her own troubles and with a young son in tow. She finds a way to help him make peace with his past, but she is still on the run from her own.

The War Artist is a timely and compelling novel about the legacy of war, the power of art and the possibility of redemption.

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 War Artist by Simon Cleary is praised for its exploration of the aftermath of the Afghanistan War, particularly focusing on the psychological impact and PTSD experienced by veterans. It is recognised for its poignant and insightful portrayal of the lasting effects of war on individuals and society.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780702260346

Publisher: University of Queensland Press

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 05 March 2019

Country: Australia

Imprint: University of Queensland Press

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 27.0mm

Width: 153.0mm

Height: 226.0mm

Weight: 420g

Pages: 304

About the Author

Simon Cleary is the author of two previous novels, including The Comfort of Figs (2008), which was published after the manuscript was shortlisted for the Queensland Premier's Literary Awards. His second novel, Closer to Stone, (UQP, 2012) was inspired by his experiences in North Africa at the commencement of the Algerian civil war in the 1990s. It went on to win the Queensland Literary Awards People's Choice Award in 2012.

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