Drawing inspiration from real events and people, “Bright One” by Lisajoy Sachs is a profoundly emotional journey that intricately explores the life of Jetti Finkelthal. Through vivid storytelling and rich character development, the narrative brings to life Jetti’s hardships and achievements, inviting readers into her world where hope and resilience intertwine.
Throughout her tumultuous journey, Jetti grapples with harrowing themes of abandonment, the ravages of war, the strain of illness, and the heavy shadows of grief that shape her experiences and fortify her resilience. The narrative intricately delves into her struggles and triumphs, painting a vivid tableau of her emotional distress, as well as the profound impact of her tumultuous past has on her present reality. With deftness and sensitivity, Sachs masterfully captures the complexity of Jetti’s character, allowing her story to resonate deeply with readers who embark on this emotional odyssey alongside her, witnessing her relentless fight for healing and hope despite overwhelming adversity. With the arrival of her daughter, Berta, a glimmer of belonging and newfound purpose ignites within Jetti, filling her heart with a fierce resolve to prioritise her child above all else. Yet, as the world around them begins to unravel, and the shadow of violence looms ever closer, Jetti finds herself faced with an agonising decision. The pursuit of what is best for her daughter demands an unimaginable sacrifice, forcing her to confront the depths of her love and the harrowing choices that come with it. Jetti is a deeply captivating character whose journey embodies remarkable resilience in the face of life’s adversities. Her narrative unfolds with an authenticity that makes her feel strikingly real. As she grapples with the profound loss of loved ones, the emotional toll on her spirit becomes poignantly evident, illuminating the depth of her grief. Unlike one-dimensional characters who simply shake off their challenges and press on, Jetti immerses herself in her pain, feeling every moment with an intensity that reflects her inner turmoil. Her struggles resonate on a universal level, showcasing not only the impact of her trauma but also her capacity for growth and healing. Through her relatable experiences of heartache, self-discovery, and joy in motherhood, she forges a powerful connection with anyone who encounters her story. Readers find themselves emotionally invested in her journey, drawn into the intricacies of her character, and inspired by her unwavering strength to face life’s trials with vulnerability and courage.
Although Joel, Jetti’s husband, makes only a fleeting appearance in the narrative, his experiences during the war are heartbreakingly intense and deeply affecting. Now that the echoes of gunfire have faded and the conflict has drawn to a close, he is left grappling with a deep sense of loss and disconnection. With his family having embarked on a new life in the bustling streets of New York, Joel feels adrift, tethered only to Jetti—yet the bond they once shared feels frayed and distant, as if they are mere strangers fated to pass each other by. Joel is a richly developed character, his internal struggles and the emotional scars etched into his psyche vividly articulated. As he contemplates the impending reunion with Jetti, a swell of anxiety consumes him—Will her love for him remain unchanged? Can he be worthy of her devotion after the war has fundamentally altered his sense of self? The reader can sense the tumultuous emotions swirling within Joel, a storm of doubt and fear. However, his fateful decision to leave Jetti without so much as a word casts a shadow over his turmoil, rendering his actions seemingly unforgivable. This lack of communication not only deepens his isolation but also accentuates the vast chasm that the war has carved between them, leaving both characters to navigate the heavy silence of unvoiced feelings and unresolved heartache.
The book features a vibrant array of supporting characters, each adding depth to the narrative. However, the grim realities of war and the relentless grip of the Spanish flu take a heavy toll, leading to the tragic loss of many. As these characters are swept away by fate, Jetti finds herself locked in a fierce struggle, grappling with the emotional aftermath and the weight of their absence.
The narrative unfolds with a lush, evocative depth, intricately weaving together a vibrant tapestry of sensory details that beckon readers to immerse themselves in a world brimming with life and emotion. The author’s voice glides gracefully across the pages, infusing the text with a profound emotional resonance and an undeniable sense of historical authenticity. Each carefully crafted phrase paints a strikingly vivid picture, capturing the delicate beauty and intricate fragility of the Finkelthal family’s existence. Through rich imagery and expressive figurative language, the story blossoms like a cherished memory, inviting readers to bask in the warmth of familial connections and the soft, haunting whispers of the past.
The novel opens in 1917, presenting the setting of Czernowitz with vivid imagery. At the heart of this story stands a grand mansion that whispers stories of opulence and privilege. Inside, the library opens like a hidden treasure chest. This estate serves as a sanctuary of affluence and stability, contrasting sharply with the turmoil brewing just beyond its gates. As the years progress, Czernowitz, with its lively marketplace bursting with a kaleidoscope of colours and sounds, exudes an air of multicultural charm. It is a place where the laughter of children mingles with the calls of merchants peddling their wares. However, the community faces new challenges as the tendrils of anti-Semitism begin to creep into their lives. The vibrancy of Czernowitz starts to wither under a looming shadow that drapes over the landscape, filling the once-joyous streets with an unsettling fear and a palpable sense of uncertainty. The charm and warmth of this beloved city are increasingly tarnished. Although Jetti does not want to scare her child, she is acutely aware that their haven is under a silent siege, transforming their playground into a place haunted by the spectre of intolerance.
“Bright One” by Lisajoy Sachs is an incredibly moving tale that resonates deeply with the reader, leaving a lasting impression long after the final page is turned. With its evocative prose and richly drawn characters, this story captures the complexities of human emotions and relationships, ensuring that its themes echo in the minds of those who embark on this heartfelt journey into the life of Jetti Finkelthal and her family.
Review by Mary Anne Yarde
Yarde Book Promotion
