The book Winter of the Word is the second book in a trilogy that follows five families from across the world through three generations. The second generation in the series must deal with the rise of fascism and communism and World War Two. The book deals with social classes, women's rights, espionage, and the reactions that people had to fascism and communism. The German characters in the book show how many businessmen supported Hitler at first because he brought about improvements in the economy. It also shows how a mob mentality took over in Europe. Fascism attracted young men who were bullies by nature and found a way to channel their aggression into oppressing those they labeled as liberals, homosexuals, or communists. At the same time in Russia, the government was oppressing dissension with the same tactics. The book follows a Russian intelligence agent and examines his feelings towards Stalin's regime.
Why should you read it?
The stories bring human faces to the events of World War II. Readers are captivated by the situations that the main characters face and the decisions that they make. Follett has done extensive research so that he is able to expertly entwine his characters into actual historical events. He is able to both entertain and inform at the same time. It is good to have some background in history because he has many characters that have sprung from the first generation and you must have historical bearings in order to keep track of each story line. At times readers follow a character through a major event only to have Follett move on to other characters. But the book gives readers a firsthand look at history.
