A House to Call Home: A Traveler Finds a Haven in North Portugal’s Lost Paradise by Igal SarnaMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
In "A House to Call Home," Igal Sarna shares his poignant memoir of finding solace in an unexpected place after being forced into exile from his homeland. As a celebrated investigative journalist with 35 years of experience, Sarna had to make the difficult decision to leave everything behind and start anew in a foreign land with his partner. The picturesque region of northern Portugal's Alto Minho and its colorful locals soon embrace him and offer him a haven to call his own.
We learn about the history of the historic home and land he calls home by following him around. We discover how writers and poets like Enrique Vila-Matas and Fernando Pessoa shed light on the nation's distinct culture and history as he delves deeper into Portugal's literary heritage. He discovers the past of the people who had resided in a range of deserted structures, from basic houses to opulent palaces.
"A House to Call Home" not only pays homage to Portugal but also tells the story of exile and finding a new home. The author's exquisite language and vivid descriptions do an amazing job of capturing the natural beauty and culture of his chosen nation. This story serves as a moving reminder of the ‘age-old longing for a place to call home.’
Highly recommended and a well-deserved five stars from me. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
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