The Free-Range Bookclub
Bookclubbers without boundaries in Nelson, New Zealand
The Train – Georges Simenon
READ FOR BOOKCLUB
Chosen by Becks
On May 10, 1940, as Nazi tanks approach, Marcel Feron abandons his home and, separated from his wife, joins a freight car of refugees hurtling southward ahead of the pursuing invaders.
❍”Marcel, a timid, happy man must abandon his home and confront the fate he has been secretly awaiting for years. A poignant, believable love affair that deals with an aspect of war we don’t often hear about. An interesting and troubling insight into human behaviour in the face of a traumatic experience, and the bonds that we create with individuals out of the instinctual need to grasp at life. An easy read that was deeply thought provoking and hard to put down.” – Becks
❍”Georges Simenon created a story that I fell straight into, I could imagine the scene or situation vividly and felt an understanding for most of the characters. It took some time to understand the main character, Marcel, and his dissociation from his regular life. The tension of potential danger physically, mentally and emotionally is expertly created. A wonderful story of a normal, vulnerable man stepping outside of his life comforts and enjoying all that ‘fate’ has to offer.” – Jo
❍”I read this book over one night – it is truly unputdownable. Marcel’s momentary detachment to the real world and acceptance of (almost dependance on) fate makes for a fascinating character study. The paired-back writing style creates a appropriate war-setting atmosphere, yet reveals so much in a minimum of words. I can’t stop thinking about this book.” – Rachel
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Published 1961
Melville House
144 pages
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