Title
Esmond and Ilia: An Unreliable Memoir,Used
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By one of the finest English writers of our time, a luminous memoir that travels from southern Italy to the banks of the Nile, capturing a lost past both personal and historical.Marina Warner? father, Esmond, met her mother, Ilia, while serving as an officer in the British Army during the Second World War. As Allied forces fought their way north through Italy, Esmond found himself in the southern town of Bari, where Ilia had grown up, one of four girls of a widowed mother. The Englishman approaching middle age and the twentyoneyearold Italian were soon married. Before the war had come to an end, Ilia was on her way alone to London to wait for her husband? return and to learn how to be Mrs. Esmond Warner, an Englishwoman.Ilia begins to learn the world of cricket, riding, canned food, and distant relations she has landed in, while Esmond, in spite of his connections, struggles to support his wife and young daughter. He comes up with the idea of opening a bookshop, a branch of W.H. Smith?, in Cairo, where he had spent happy times during the North African campaign. In Egypt, however, nationalists are challenging foreign influences, especially British ones, and before long Cairo is on fire.Deeply felt, closely observed, rich with strange lore, Esmond and Ilia is a picture of vanished worlds, a portrait of two people struggling to know each other and themselves, a daughter? story of trying to come to terms with a past that is both hers and unknowable to her. It is an ?nreliable memoir?what memoir isn??and a lasting work of literature, lyrical, sorrowful, shaped by love and wonder.
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- Q: How many pages does the book have? A: The book has four hundred thirty-two pages. This length allows for a detailed exploration of the memoir's themes and narratives.
- Q: What is the binding type of this memoir? A: The memoir is paperback bound. This makes it lightweight and easy to carry, perfect for readers on the go.
- Q: What are the dimensions of the book? A: The book measures five point seventy-five inches in length, zero point ninety-one inches in width, and eight point forty-six inches in height. These dimensions make it a standard-sized memoir.
- Q: Who is the author of 'Esmond and Ilia'? A: The author is Marina Warner. She is recognized as one of the finest English writers of our time, adding significant credibility to the memoir.
- Q: What genre does this book belong to? A: The book belongs to the memoir genre. It provides a personal and historical narrative, blending memoir with elements of literary fiction.
- Q: Is this book suitable for young readers? A: The book is not specifically targeted at children. Its themes and content may resonate more with adult readers.
- Q: What is the main theme of 'Esmond and Ilia'? A: The main theme revolves around personal and historical narratives of identity and belonging. It captures the author's reflections on her parents' lives during significant historical events.
- Q: How should I store the book to keep it in good condition? A: Store the book in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This helps preserve the cover and pages from fading and wear.
- Q: Are there any specific care instructions for this book? A: No special care instructions are required. Just keep it clean and handle it gently to maintain its condition.
- Q: Can I return the book if I don't like it? A: Yes, you can return the book if it doesn't meet your expectations. Be sure to check the seller's return policy for specific details.
- Q: What if the book arrives damaged? A: If the book arrives damaged, you should contact the seller immediately for a replacement or refund. Most sellers have policies in place for such issues.
- Q: Is there a warranty for this book? A: Books typically do not come with a warranty. However, you can inquire about the return policy for any issues.
- Q: How does this book compare to other memoirs? A: This memoir offers a unique blend of personal and historical insights that may differ from more traditional memoirs, focusing on cultural identity.
- Q: Is this memoir helpful for understanding historical events? A: Yes, the memoir provides context about World War II and its impact on personal lives. It offers a lens through which to understand that era.
- Q: What audience is this book best suited for? A: The book is best suited for adult readers interested in memoirs, historical narratives, and unique personal stories. It engages those who appreciate literary depth.