Algiers in 1942: American Landing in North Africa
Join
us for a presentation featuring Claudine Fisher and her latest novel in a book overview and discussion. Mme Fisher is a distinguished
retired Professor of French at PSU, a former Honorary Consul of France, and an honorary board member of the Alliance Française de Portland.
As we delve into the pages of her intriguing narrative, Mme Fisher will guide us through the book's themes, shedding light on its significance within the context of a Francophone cultural heritage. Don't miss the opportunity to be part of her presentation and
discussion where francophonie and literature converge in an enriching dialogue.About the book
The latest historical novel She & I by Claudine Fisher evokes the little known episode of WWII when, on November 8, 1942, British and American troops invaded Algeria and Morocco in a successful amphibious landing of Algerian beaches with little resistance.
Seen through the eyes of two young French women from Algiers and its surroundings, the story recounts the first time American troops fought against the Nazis. The hardships of the war are illustrated on the personal level through the lives of the two women and their families.
The WWII background emphasizes the political nuances which existed at the time of the Petain Regime, free France, the Giraud partisans, the Jewish stands and the Allied forces aims.
For the local population and for the two main characters who lived in those historical moments, how easy was it to sort out the direct and indirect causes, effects and ethical questions produced? Can one’s choice be neutral in acute crisis?
To be or not to be? That is the question! A relevant question nowadays.