A review by jhbandcats
Signal Fires by Dani Shapiro

dark emotional hopeful mysterious reflective sad fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

[One of the standard questions here is whether the characters are diverse. They’re all Jewish so I put No, so maybe the question should refer to minorities as well as diversity.]

This is a beautiful narrative of two families whose lives are intertwined through the years. If this were a movie it would be called a drama. That said, it’s not melodramatic by any means. It’s very gentle and respectful of the characters - it’s clear the author loves them and forgives them the many problems they cause. Too many things go unsaid for years and the secrets and silence create walls. There’s alcoholism, anger issues, inability to have significant loving relationships. 

I loved the descriptions that brought the people to life. Theo in his restaurant having to hide behind a curtain because the eager diners wouldn’t leave him alone. Waldo with his iPad, wishing his dad loved him as he was. Sarah at the moment she realizes she can’t keep silent any longer. The story is told from many perspectives, each character having their own chance to tell the story. It jumps back and forth in time which adds to the complexity. 

So far this is the author’s only novel, though her nonfiction interest is in genealogy and creativity. I hope she writes more of these intricate tales. 
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