Piranesi has a magical quality to it. It is a simple tale that unfolds gradually and any review should avoid spoilers since there are a series of revelations throughout the book, which is all part of the delight of the tale. It is a tale of an alternate reality and Piranesi himself is our guide. We start with the places he has explored, and the knowledge he has gained from his observations and enquiry, but as the story evolves, past events are indirectly added to the enquiry, one piece at a time, so that the readers and Piranesi together discover how he came to be there.
As the plot developed I wondered how the author would end the book and I was delighted with the final chapters. The whole experience of reading Piranesi was an uplifting experience. I was reminded of Neil Gaimin’s The Ocean at the End of the Lane, another favorite. I listed to the audiobook, winner of the Audie Award for 2021, a recommended approach. 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
“The Beauty of the House is immeasurable; its Kindness infinite.”
Piranesi is a gift and so if you choose to read it:
“May your Paths be safe, your Floors unbroken and may the House fill your eyes with Beauty.”