The Curse of Pietro Houdini

A captivating and emotionally stirring novel from the acclaimed author of "Norwegian By Night" and "How To Find Your Way In The Dark," this tale explores the depths to which people will go to endure the most challenging circumstances. In 1943, Rome falls under bombardment, leaving fourteen-year-old Massimo without family and compelling him to embark on a quest to find his remaining relatives in Naples. Along the way, he encounters the enigmatic and captivating Pietro Houdini. Their paths converge at the venerable abbey of Monte Cassino, renowned for its serene dedication to knowledge, reflection, and art. However, the destruction of war looms imminent as Allied forces press closer, imperiling the tranquility of the abbey. With the approach of disaster, Pietro and Massimo are determined to protect the invaluable treasures of art housed within the monastery from destruction. Their mission requires them to master the arts of deception, ingenuity, and shrewdness—skills that Pietro seems to possess and must impart to Massimo. Yet beneath the surface of this extraordinary adventure, Massimo himself harbors unexpected capabilities. "The Curse of Pietro Houdini" weaves a compelling narrative of tenacity, hope, and perseverance. This narrative, bursting with intensity and rich in adventure, also serves as a creative retelling of obscured history and a philosophical exploration of growing up. It is especially appealing to those who appreciate stories like "All the Light We Cannot See," "City of Lies," and "A Thousand Splendid Suns."