Five Quarters of the Orange

Book Review

«Five Quarters of the Orange» by Joanne Harris is a captivating novel that combines elements of a family saga, mystery, and historical drama. Critics note that the author masterfully creates the atmosphere of a French village, immersing the reader in a world of memories and secrets. The main character, Framboise, returns to her childhood home to confront the past, and this journey becomes the central theme of the book. Harris succeeds in conveying the complex emotions and internal conflicts of the characters, making them vivid and multi-dimensional. Special attention is given to the symbolism of oranges, which become a metaphor for lost childhood and family secrets. Critics praise Harris for her ability to blend poetic language with a tense plot, creating a work that captivates from the first pages and keeps the reader engaged until the very end. However, some reviewers note that the abundance of flashbacks may make it challenging for some readers to follow. Overall, the novel has received positive reviews for its atmospheric quality and depth of character development.