Book Review- The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett

rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Pillars of the Earth is an inspiring and thrilling book. I loved it. Be warned however, that the book depicts both sex and violence (often together) very graphically. This however, is a typical worldview and experience of the people of the Middle Ages, (specifically, twelfth century Britain) the time in which this book is set. At this time, the human race lived with constant violence as a part of everyday life. Sensitive readers should beware of this and may choose to avoid the book for these reasons.

The book follows a number of different individuals over the course of about three decades. There is Philip, a monk who comes from a quiet forest monastary; Tom Builder and his family, who are seeking work and sustenance; Ellen, a beautiful young woman who lives in the forest with her son Jack; the powerful Hamleigh family, who wreak ruthless violence upon all; and a young lady named Aliena and her brother who are the children of the Earl. Each individual and family rises and falls (many times over) in security, power, and capabilities, and each experience the consequences of choices made by themselves and by others. Their stories are set against the backdrop of the building of the Kingsbridge Cathedral, a long and bloody civil war, and a challenge between the monarchy and the catholic church.

I liked the book on many levels. The plot was wonderful, character development was interesting and compelling, and the historical setting fascinating. Follett is a great story teller, having developed his writing chops as a thriller-action novelist. His prose is nothing special--simple and straightforward, and accessible, yet at the same time he creates imagery of both the external and internal environments of the noval that is both vivid and forceful. I loved the way the book followed the characters over such a long period of time, allowing the reader to experience their personality development as they matured and experienced the joys and cruelties of their lives.

The central metaphor of the book, the cathedral, undergoes a similar development as the characters, experiencing similar disasters, triumphs. It becomes a source of strength and hope for the community. The cathedral develops into something completely different than anyone had initially conceived. When the cathedral is damaged or shows signs of weakness, these trials inspire the builders to make the cathedral more fortified, more mighty, and more beautiful. Through the process of time, and by long and arduous effort, the cathedral evolves into something triumphant and holy.

Pillars of the Earth will definitely make my read-again list.