Findelkind   By: Unknown (1839-1908)

Findelkind by Unknown is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that explores themes of identity, belonging, perseverance, and the power of love. Set in a small village during the late 19th century, the story follows the life of an abandoned child who is found in the snowy woods by a kind-hearted woman named Elise. As the child grows up under Elise's care, he faces numerous challenges and experiences that shape his character and test his determination to discover his true origins.

One of the most striking aspects of this book is its vivid and evocative writing style. The author paints a vivid picture of the village, its inhabitants, and the natural landscape, allowing readers to feel fully immersed in the story. The descriptions of the snowy woods, the quaint cottages, and the bustling marketplace are rich and atmospheric, adding depth and realism to the narrative.

The protagonist, the Foundling, as he is commonly referred to, is a complex and relatable character. Readers will find themselves empathizing with his longing for a sense of identity and his unwavering desire to uncover the truth about his origins. As he embarks on a quest to unravel the mysteries of his past, the Foundling encounters a diverse cast of characters, each with their own secrets and motivations. These characters add layers of depth to the story and contribute to its overall richness and complexity.

Throughout the novel, the theme of belonging resonates strongly. The Foundling's search for his true family serves as a metaphor for the universal human quest for a place to call home. The author skillfully explores this theme through the Foundling's emotional journey, highlighting the importance of love, acceptance, and genuine connections in finding one's sense of belonging.

However, while Findelkind presents a compelling storyline and engaging characters, it does suffer from a somewhat slow pace at certain points. Some passages linger on descriptions and inner musings to the point of slowing the narrative's momentum. This occasional lack of pacing disrupts the otherwise gripping plot, making certain sections feel slightly overwhelming.

However, despite this minor setback, the book delivers a satisfying and heartwarming conclusion. The author ties up loose ends without resorting to clichés, leaving readers with a sense of fulfillment and closure. Findelkind invites us to reflect on the power of resilience and the significance of embracing one's past while embracing the present.

Overall, Findelkind by Unknown is a beautifully written and emotionally charged novel that will appeal to readers seeking a heartfelt and profound story. It is a tale of self-discovery, humanity, and the enduring power of love. Despite some pacing issues, the book's engaging characters and poignant themes make it a memorable read that will stay with readers long after they turn the final page.

First Page:

The Martinswand is a grand mountain, being one of the spurs of the greater Sonnstein, and rises precipitously, looming, massive and lofty, like a very fortress for giants, where it stands right across that road which, if you follow it long enough, takes you through Zell to Landeck, old, picturesque, poetic Landeck, where Frederick of the Empty Pockets rhymed his sorrows in ballads to his people, and so on by Bludenz into Switzerland itself, by as noble a highway as any traveller can ever desire to traverse on a summer's day. It is within a mile of the... Continue reading book >>