The Island Book Summary
The million-copy Number One bestseller 'A moving and absorbing holiday read'
TL;DR
'The Island' by Victoria Hislop is a compelling tale of four generations entangled in love, tragedy, war, and the devastating impact of leprosy, set against the backdrop of Crete and the leper colony of Spinalonga.
What is The Island about
'The Island' by Victoria Hislop explores the hidden past of Alexis Fielding’s family, spanning four generations. The narrative unfolds as Alexis travels to Crete to learn about her mother Sofia’s secretive history. She discovers a tale involving her great-grandmother Eleni, her daughters, and the small island of Spinalonga, once a leper colony. The story captures the profound effects of leprosy, the struggle for love and dignity amidst adversity, and the enduring bonds of family.
The Island 6 Key Takeaways
Alexis's Quest
On the brink of a life-altering decision, Alexis Fielding seeks to uncover her mother Sofia’s mysterious past. Sofia, who grew up in a small Cretan village, gives Alexis a letter to deliver to an old friend in Plaka.
Discovery of Spinalonga
Upon arriving in Plaka, Alexis is surprised to find it close to Spinalonga, a deserted island that once served as a leper colony. This discovery piques her curiosity about her family's history.
Eleni's Tragic Story
Through Sofia’s friend Fotini, Alexis learns about her great-grandmother Eleni, who was sent to Spinalonga after contracting leprosy, and the impact this had on Eleni’s daughters, Maria and Anna.
Family Torn by War and Passion
The narrative delves into the lives of Eleni’s daughters, revealing how the family was affected by the turbulence of war, illicit love affairs, and personal conflicts.
Unveiling Family Secrets
As Alexis uncovers more about her heritage, she realizes the extent to which secrecy and past traumas have shaped her family’s present. Her journey brings understanding and closure to long-hidden wounds.
Liberation from Leprosy
The story concludes with the discovery of a cure for leprosy, allowing the once-isolated inhabitants of Spinalonga to reintegrate into society, symbolizing hope and renewal.
Top The Island Quotes
- 'A page-turning tale that reminds us that love and life continue in even the most extraordinary of circumstances.'
- 'A beautiful tale of enduring love and unthinking prejudice.'
Who should read The Island?
This book is ideal for readers interested in historical fiction, family sagas, and stories that intertwine personal and societal struggles. Those fascinated by the history of Crete and the legacy of leprosy will find this narrative deeply engaging and enlightening.
The Island Best Reviews
- 'A vivid, moving and absorbing tale' - Observer
- 'Victoria Hislop brings dignity and tenderness to her novel about lives blighted by leprosy' - Telegraph
- 'A page-turning tale that reminds us that love and life continue in even the most extraordinary of circumstances' - Sunday Express
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The Island FAQs
What is The Island by Victoria Hislop about?
'The Island' explores the hidden past of Alexis Fielding’s family, spanning four generations, and delves into themes of love, tragedy, war, and the impact of leprosy in Crete.
Is The Island a true story?
While 'The Island' is a work of fiction, it is inspired by historical events and the real-life leper colony on the island of Spinalonga.
What happened at the end of The Island?
The novel concludes with the discovery of a cure for leprosy, allowing the inhabitants of Spinalonga to return to society, symbolizing hope and new beginnings.