The Requiem Rose: A Waverly Hills Story (2010) - Plot & Excerpts
Rate: 3 starsI'd say this book is a combination of "Patch Adams" and "Les Choristes" placed back in time (around WWI). My first thought when I found out it was about a hospital that treated people with TB was to close the book and leave it right there; however, I enjoyed how the author gives hope (to the patients and the readers) through the music. Also the author talks about controversial subjects such as religion and racism, but in a tactful way to show us how was the atmosphere at that time. Good execution. This book is a treasure to read and read it slowly. Wolfgang Pike, polio survivor, musician, widower, converted Catholic Seminary student and physician lives his life in angst. Grieving for his deceased wife, grieving for the tuberculosis patients he cares for at the Waverly Santitorium in Louisville. ( this is a fact and the Waverly housing 500 patients was first a Tuberculosis hospital, then a geriatric home that was closed down due to abusive practices. It is also considered one of the haunted buildings in the country and has been featured on many television paranormal shows.) He comes to term with his losses, relishes his loves and manages to start a music program for the patients while acting as doctor, conductor and as a priest that is not yet ordained and in orders. This book is a pure gem to be savored in its many characters.
What do You think about The Requiem Rose: A Waverly Hills Story (2010)?
WOW!! I both laughed and cried. This was an amazing book. I really came to love the characters.
—readalot
I loved that Wolfgang gave hope to the suffering with his music. What a wonderful read.
—Jeanie
Really good book about the height of the TB epidemic in the 1920's. Loved it.
—05ali
Story of people living/loving at a tb sanitorium.
—Kim
