"Year of Wonders" is a historical fiction novel by Geraldine Brooks, published in 2001. The story takes place in the small village of Eyam in 1666, during the outbreak of the bubonic plague.
The protagonist, Anna Frith, is a young woman who lives in the village and witnesses the devastating effects of the plague on her community. As the death toll rises and the village is placed under quarantine, Anna becomes a pillar of strength and support for her neighbors, even as she faces her own personal tragedies.
The novel is based on a true story, and Brooks's extensive research into the historical events of the time is evident in the vividly drawn characters and settings. The novel explores themes such as faith, love, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
Brooks's writing style is lyrical and immersive, with a focus on the details of daily life in a 17th-century village. Overall, "Year of Wonders" is a moving and compelling novel that offers a poignant and powerful reflection on the nature of human suffering and the strength of community in times of crisis.