Point of View

The author uses an omniscient point of view in order to allow us to see and understand the thinking and activities of different people in different places. We are allowed to view the world through Claudia Blum as she lives her childhood on the run. We are able to experience the remorse and anger of Renzo Leoni, whose worst mistake was made accidentally, and whose heart was good. Using this point of view, it is also possible to perceive the horrible atmosphere of war, with all of its smells, noise, fear and confusion. With so many characters in this story, Russell had to write from an omnipotent view so that readers can draw their own conclusions and make their own judgments about them.

Setting

The setting for this novel is primarily in the norther part of Italy in the mountains and foothills. The refugees first cross...