Given the novel is narrated by children, there is a surprising amount of insight conveyed, both socially and politically. The novel alternates between Melbourne and Prague, allowing the reader to not only get a feel for this family, but also a bead on what life itself is like for each family within the place they reside. Both children are being brought up by their grandmothers who are twin sisters living on opposite sides of the world. There Was Still Love is a deeply moving little novel, its story less of a story and more of a snapshot of life within one family, as conveyed through the eyes of two children: Ludek, who lives in Prague, and Mala Liska, who lives in Melbourne. It is a tender and beautifully told story of memory, family and love. A life imbued with the spirit of Prague and the loved ones left behind.įavel Parrett’s deep emotional insight and stellar literary talent shine through in this love letter to the strong women who bind families together, despite dislocation and distance. Here, Mana and Bill have made a life for themselves and their granddaughter. Inside, the smell of warm pipe tobacco and homemade cakes. Melbourne, 1980: Mala Liska’s grandma holds her hand as they climb the stairs to their third floor flat. The world can go to hell for all he cares because Babi is waiting for him in the warm flat. A young boy can slip right under the heavy blanket that covers this city – the fear cannot touch him. His anger slaps Eva, but his hate will change everything, as war forces so many lives into small, brown suitcases. Eva runs into him, hits the pavement hard. Suddenly a man steps out, a man wearing a hat. Prague, 1938: Eva flies down the street from her sister. A tender and masterfully told story of memory, family and love.

There was still love favel parrett