Book Review: All Quiet on the Western Front by Erich Maria Remarque
Ages: 14 and Up
Words cannot describe how touched I was by this novel. Author Erich Maria Remarque is nothing short of a poetic genius. Despite the fact that this was a tragic story about war, the imagery and symbolism used were so profound that it was hard to find a flaw in this book. Themes dealing with comradery, fear, maturity, and isolation seeped through the margins of every page, and I often found myself reflecting on the decisions that characters made both on and off the frontlines.
It is hard to summarize such a complexly heartfelt story. But the long story short is that, All Quiet on the Western Front is a beautifully written novel that honestly displays the horrors of war, while also teaching us lessons of humanity, redemption, and most importantly---love.
About:
Paul Baumer is just a young man who was called upon to fight for his country. He and his comrades have gone through hell and back together, but deep down inside they all long for an end to the terrible thing that is war.
Memorable Quote From the Book:
"'We didn't want the war, the others say the same thing---and yet half the world is in it all the same.'"
Have you read All Quiet on the Western Front before, or another book similar to it? If so, tell us what you thought about it right here at Reading Soup! It's always awesome to hear your literary thoughts and opinions. Have a great rest of summer, and keep on reading!
- The Soup Chef
Great summary and insight, Isabel. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this book. I'll have to read it!
ReplyDeleteI felt the same way about this book, I thought the writing style was extremely beautiful and tragic. There were parts that were so incredible I realized I had just highlighted an entire page! One of my favorite parts was the passage where he talked about "the little soldier with the big boots who no longer knew anything but marching." - Abby
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