This is an interesting book about WWII, using two characters whose lives are connected by the miracle of radio transmission. Marie-Laure is a Parisian child who has lost her sight at age 6. Her father is keeper of the keys at the museum and a very clever fellow. He miniaturizes the neighborhood with wooden buildings and streets so his daughter can navigate by memorizing the area. The museum houses a very special jewel, said to protect the owner, but bring curses upon family and friends. The Germans want this gem when they begin looting the art of Paris.
Werner is in an orphanage, along with his sister Jutta, not a good life. He is also a clever fellow and is chosen for a special technology school. Werner and his sister have been able to connect to a wonderful transmission of stories from Paris, later revealed to be sent by Marie-Laure’s grandfather.
The story travels between the narrators in France and Germany and forward and backward in time, but surprisingly, it is easy to follow with many well described characters and actions. Doerr made me feel the horrors and hatred of war, but the intertwining of lives and the coincidences that occur to complete the story are well plotted and not unbelievable.