Fall of Giants (The Century Trilogy) by Ken Follett

Summary:

• In ‘Fall of Giants’, Ken Follett tells the epic story of five families from different parts of the world whose lives become intertwined during the tumultuous events of the early 20th century.

Genres:

• Historical fiction
• Thriller
• Drama

Main Topic:

• The impact of World War I on the lives of individuals and families, and the political and social upheavals that shape the course of history.

Key Ideas:

• War is a powerful force that affects everyone, regardless of their social status or nationality.
• Personal relationships and struggles are often shaped by larger political events and societal norms.
• The early 20th century was a time of great change and progress, but also a period of conflict and turmoil.

Main Parts of the Book:

• Part One: Summer of 1911 – Introduces the five main families and their lives before the outbreak of the war.
• Part Two: Winter of 1914 – The families experience the start of the war and its effects on their lives.
• Part Three: Spring of 1918 – The war continues to rage and the families face new challenges and struggles.
• Part Four: Summer of 1924 – The war may be over, but its impact continues to be felt and the families must navigate a new world.
• Part Five: Spring of 1926 – The families reunite in New York City and their lives intersect once again.

Key Takeaways:

• The first World War had a profound effect on individuals and societies, shaping the course of history for years to come.
• Personal relationships and struggles are often intertwined with larger events and can provide insight into the human experience during times of turmoil.
• Ken Follett’s mastery of storytelling and historical accuracy make for a gripping and informative read.

Author’s Background and Qualifications:

• Ken Follett is a Welsh author known for his works of historical fiction, including the bestselling ‘Kingsbridge’ and ‘Pillars of the Earth’ series.
• He has a degree in philosophy from University College London and worked as a reporter before becoming a full-time author.
• Follett has won numerous awards for his writing and is known for his impeccable research and attention to detail.

Target Audience:

• Historical fiction lovers
• Fans of Ken Follett’s previous works
• Readers interested in the early 20th century and the impact of World War I
• Anyone looking for a gripping and informative read with a diverse cast of characters

Publisher and First Publication Date:

• The book was published by Dutton (an imprint of Penguin Random House) in September 2010.

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