Tell

In 1919, AmericanKsoldier Kenan Oak returns home to Deseronto, Ontario after World War I with severe facial injuries and partial blindness. His wife Tress must adjust to caring for him while navigating their changed relationship in the aftermath of war. Meanwhile, their friend and neighbor Am Parnell grapples with the loss of her husband during the 1918 influenza epidemic. As she sorts through his belongings, she uncovers information that forces her to question their marriage and her own identity. The intersecting stories of these characters play out against the backdrop of a small Canadian town trying to return to normal after years of war and disease. The novel follows their daily struggles, conversations, and attempts to move forward despite their losses. Tell explores how trauma and secrets shape relationships, and examines the complexities of healing - both physical and emotional. The story raises questions about what we choose to share with those closest to us, and what remains untold.

Readers highlight Itani's attention to historical detail and her portrayal of PTSD through the character of Kenan, a WWI veteran. Many reviewers connect with the authentic depictions of small-town Canadian life in 1919. Readers appreciate: - Strong character development between Kenan and his wife Tress - Nuanced exploration of trauma and recovery - The parallel storytelling between two couples - Historical accuracy of post-war Canada Common criticisms: - Slow pacing, especially in the first half - Limited plot development - Some found the writing style too distant Ratings: Goodreads: 3.7/5 (1,200+ ratings) Amazon: 4.1/5 (50+ ratings) Several readers noted the book works better as a character study than a plot-driven novel. One reviewer stated "It's a quiet book that rewards patient reading." Multiple reviews mention the authenticity of period details but wanted more narrative momentum.

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📚 The novel draws heavily on Frances Itani's own deaf grandmother's experiences, lending authenticity to the portrayal of Grania, the deaf protagonist. 🎭 "Tell" is part of a trilogy, following "Deafening" and "Requiem," though each book can be read as a standalone story. 🏥 The narrative explores the historically accurate Belleville School for the Deaf in Ontario, which operated from 1870 to 1971 and pioneered deaf education in Canada. ⚕️ The book's depiction of shell shock (now known as PTSD) among WWI soldiers was based on actual medical records and soldiers' journals from the period. 🗣️ The title "Tell" has multiple meanings in the context of the story - referring both to the act of telling stories and to the way deaf people must watch others' faces to "tell" what they're saying.