The German Numbers Woman Book

Blind war veteran Howard inhabits two worlds. There's the pampered, stable existence he shares with wife Laura and then there's the world he escapes to--the enigmatic, ever-changing world of the radio waves. From the bewitching rhythms of Morse Code, Howard sculpts an alternative reality for himself, one where he is God, eavesdropping on the secrets of the sighted world. Beguiled by a mysterious dialogue between two lovers, Howard gradually withdraws from life. Laura's efforts to reach him send their cosy existence spinning into chaos. She introduces him to the debonair Richard, a smuggler whose interest in Howard's radio knowledge is anything but innocent. A chilling adventure unfolds, of ruthless drug barons, perilous sea journeys and a desperate scramble for survival.Sillitoe has created a gripping tale, which retains its satisfying twists until the very last line. At the same time, he inhabits the world of his blind narrator with a precision and an empathy that are fascinating--and humbling--to read. "If you're blind, you have to be in love all the time, with life, just to keep going", says Howard. It's impossible to read this book without feeling similarly compelled. --Matthew BaylisRead More