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Book Review: My Brother Michael (1959) by Mary Stewart<\/p>\n
Living in a country where English isn’t the primary language means that finding English books at the local library or secondhand shops is quite a challenge. The selection is often small, but every now and then, I stumble upon a hidden gem. Mary Stewart\u2019s “My Brother Michael” is one such discovery, and I’m thrilled that I chose to read it despite its unassuming title.<\/p>\n
I recognized Mary Stewart as an author my mother used to read, known for her books about Camelot and King Arthur. However, I only recently discovered that she was also a prolific writer of romantic suspense and detective romances. This genre, which includes gothic elements, courageous heroines, charming love interests, and intriguing puzzles, is right up my alley.<\/p>\n
When Something Happens<\/p>\n
“My Brother Michael” narrates the unexpected adventure of Miss Camilla Haven during her vacation in Greece. While sitting in a caf\u00e9 in Athens, writing a letter to her friend back in England, Camilla notes that “nothing ever happens to me.” Ironically, at that moment, she is mistaken for someone else by a man delivering a car with an urgent message. The car needs to be taken to Delphi immediately for Mr. Simon, as it’s a matter of life and death. Despite her attempts to refuse, her poor Greek lands her with the car keys. Coincidentally, Delphi is the final destination on her trip.<\/p>\n
After waiting in vain for the real recipient to show up, Camilla makes an uncharacteristic decision to drive the car to Delphi herself. Her lack of driving skills makes for a series of hilarious mishaps along the way, making it one of the most humorous books I’ve read in a long time.<\/p>\n
Upon reaching Delphi, Camilla meets a Simon who initially appears clueless about the situation. Mr. Simon Lester, like Camilla, is a Classics teacher in Greece on a personal mission. He is visiting the place where his brother Michael died fourteen years earlier during WWII. Simon is on a quest to uncover the mystery behind a peculiar letter sent by Michael, hinting at something valuable found on Mount Parnassus.<\/p>\n
Evocatively Good Stuff<\/p>\n
The story follows these two Classics teachers as they journey through the Greek countryside, treading paths once walked by ancient Oracle-seekers and followers of Apollo. WWII betrayals come to the surface, ancient myths may hold truths, and malevolent individuals with sinister plans emerge, making it indeed a matter of life and death. Camilla and Simon navigate these challenges while a subtle romance blossoms, with Simon seeing Camilla in a way she has never seen herself.<\/p>\n
This novel is like an adult version of The Three Investigators or Nancy Drew, infused with a slow-burning romance. Mary Stewart\u2019s writing is vividly evocative, full of self-irony, and a masterclass in “show, don’t tell.” She allows readers to connect the dots and immerse themselves in the story, making it an incredibly captivating read.<\/p>\n
Having thoroughly enjoyed “My Brother Michael,” I am eager to explore more of Mary Stewart\u2019s work. The story’s charm and depth would also make it an excellent candidate for a BBC period drama adaptation.<\/p>\n
Content Note:
\nThere are no graphic descriptions or swearing, but considerable smoking, as the story is set in the 1950s. Some descriptions may feel dated by today’s standards.<\/p>\n
Have you read “My Brother Michael” or other works by Mary Stewart? Do you have any favorites to recommend?<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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