Ian McEwan writes with a fluid grace that brings beauty and lyrical prose into every situation. His command of language propels the narrative. Unforgettable characters are fleshed out in a family saga that carries one through their key life moments set in key historical periods. The novel includes characters of all ages with a depth that could easily engender full evenings of discussion about his revealing truths about old age and the peculiar realities of children’s minds. The plot includes social and political issues that are seamlessly included in the lives of the characters. This novel provides a delightful experience that moved me into the story and kept me in awe of the writing talent.