A unique WWII novel, weaving the coming-of-age stories of a blind, French girl and a German orphan boy. The prose itself is poetic, and unearthed a deeper, more complicated layer of war. This story beautifully explores faith, trust, loyalty, and redemption. 
 I've heard several people say they didn't like the end, but I thought those chapters were realistic and honest. I always appreciate books that acknowledge the world's imperfections and vagaries yet still allow characters to grow and live. War will leave its indelible mark on its generation, and Doerr's novel communicates that through both prose and story.