This book absolutely left me broken hearted, but in a good way instead of a bad way. This book tells the story of a young boy named Amerigo in wartime Italy. The main character is just perfect and is the ideal conduit to tell this story. This books pulls on your heartstrings and begs for your empathy; it is so good! I loved the way Italy is described, especially war time Italy because it gives a new perspective of a place that often only one side of the story is told. I loved the multifaceted qualities of this story, which is also reflected in the characters and the characters actions throughout. I also love how strong the ideas of freedom, chance, and opportunity really seem to play out in this story and how these ideas become central to the overall story along with Amerigo’s story as you read the book and learn what has happened and are exposed to what will happen.