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Notre-Dame

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Who Would Like This Book:

If you're a fan of history, awe-inspiring architecture, or Ken Follett's famous storytelling, this bite-sized book is for you. Follett brings his passion for cathedrals - fueled by his own Pillars of the Earth - into a heartfelt tribute to Notre-Dame. The mix of personal anecdotes, historical nuggets, and striking photos makes it a wonderful gift or primer for anyone curious about cultural treasures, or those still moved by the 2019 fire. Plus, the fact that proceeds go to rebuilding efforts adds feel-good value to every page.

Who May Not Like This Book:

If you’re looking for a deep dive or the sweeping epic style of Follett’s fiction, you might be left wanting more. Some readers felt the book was too brief for the price, with only around 80 pages and a concise essay-like format. If you prefer your non-fiction with more exhaustive detail and less of a personal touch, this may not be your cup of tea.

A touching, brief, and beautifully told celebration of Notre-Dame and cathedral culture - perfect for curious minds and Follett fans, but perhaps too short for those seeking an in-depth history.

About:

'Notre-Dame' by Ken Follett is a short, non-fiction work that delves into the history and significance of the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. Readers appreciated the insights provided by Follett on the cathedral's architecture, construction, destruction, and eventual restoration. offers a concise yet informative account of the cathedral, its importance, and the impact of the tragic fire that occurred in Notre Dame.

Follett's writing style in 'Notre-Dame' is described as brief, incisive, and filled with historic facts about the iconic Cathedral. is praised for its ability to convey the emotional connection people have with cathedrals, particularly Notre Dame, and to provide readers with a better understanding of the architectural wonders and the human effort behind these magnificent structures.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is casual and accessible, enriched with personal reflections and descriptive historical content.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot primarily addresses the construction history and cultural significance of Notre-Dame Cathedral while reflecting on the recent fire that damaged it.

Setting:

The setting revolves around Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris within the broader historical framework of medieval Europe.

Pacing:

The pacing is short and concise, creating a quick read that may feel rushed to those wanting more depth.

Notes:

The book covers the history of the building of Notre-Dame Cathedral in casual language.
Ken Follett shares his feelings about witnessing the burning of Notre-Dame on television.
It includes images of influential people and features related to the cathedral.
The book discusses Victor Hugo's impact on the cathedral's reconstruction post-French Revolution.
Follett donates all royalties to a foundation for Notre-Dame's restoration after the 2019 fire.
He also contributed to restoring another cathedral, Saint Samson of Dol, from these proceeds.
The book emphasizes the emotional significance of cathedrals in people's lives.
Follett's previous work, 'Pillars of the Earth,' greatly informed his understanding of cathedral architecture.
It offers detailed descriptions of the efforts and resources needed to build cathedrals.
Readers find the book informative and a great introduction to Notre-Dame's history before visiting.

From The Publisher:

"The wonderful cathedral of Notre-Dame de Paris, one of the greatest achievements of European civilization, was on fire. The sight dazed and disturbed us profoundly. I was on the edge of tears. Something priceless was dying in front of our eyes. The feeling was bewildering, as if the earth was shaking." -Ken Follett

"[A] treasure of a book." - The New Yorker

In this short, spellbinding book, international bestselling author Ken Follett describes the emotions that gripped him when he learned about the fire that threatened to destroy one of the greatest cathedrals in the world-the Notre-Dame de Paris. Follett then tells the story of the cathedral, from its construction to the role it has played across time and history, and he reveals the influence that the Notre-Dame had upon cathedrals around the world and on the writing of one of Follett's most famous and beloved novels, The Pillars of the Earth .

Ken Follett will donate his proceeds from this book to the charity La Fondation du Patrimoine.

October 2019
86 pages

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