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Balthasar’s Odyssey
by Amin Maalouf أمين معلوف
Date Read Aug 25, 2015
★★★
ISBN 9780099452089
Pages 400
The novel was quite catchy in the beginning, but gets a little too elaborate through the middle.
The author focuses solely on the main character, his point–of–view, his feelings, his thoughts, his ambitions… etc. Most of the supporting characters were only introduced and were not given as much attention as the main character.
Balthasar’s character leaves the reader contemplating quite a bit about religion and reason, and how sometimes we sacrifice one for the other. In the end, I believe it’s about finding the right balance between the two.
Overall, a great read that combines history, adventure and romance in an immersive reading experience. I believe the phrase “It’s about the journey not the destination” sums up the essence of the novel.