The Tree of Red Stars

This is one of the novels that I recommend to people who say they haven't read a book in years. It's a great story, about events that not many people in the U.S. are even aware occurred. It does just what a good novel should do: it introduces you to a new and different world, but points out the universal behaviors which we can all identify with. I saw the author reading from her novel in Philadelphia years ago and some jerk in the audience asked why any American should read this book since it doesn't have anything to do with their lives. The author was a bit flummoxed by the apparent hostility of the questioner and the rest of the audience was discomfited to say the least. Finally, Ms. Bridal just said, "well, some people like to read about things they haven't experienced....and just because you in America haven't experienced the events I write about doesn't mean that you never will..." I loved it.

This book was wonderfully moving. The author parallels the experiences of a carefree young girl with the evoluton of a nation in turmoil. The description of Uruguay, its' customs and lexicon are givn an A+. They made me laugh, cry and remember my own upbringing.

The Tree of Red Stars is a profoundly moving novel. It is very well written. I have already purchased several copies and given them as gifts to friends. The book contains the best and most accurate depiction of life in Uruguay that I have ever read.

In the book Tree of Red Stars we get a look at Uruguayan society in times of peace and prosperity and how that reality changes and how it affects a young girl who although idealistic she sees that the country she has grown up in has to change. It is a painful realization, but as the changes that are taking place involve more and more people around her, there is no way she can remain ignorant of the corruption and political tirany. An excellent book, with a very strong message valid for many nations as well as Uruguay.

This book touches upon the political and emotional transformation of an upper class Uruguayan young woman during the turbulent 1970's. A must read for fans of Isabel Allende.