Bel Canto | by Ann Patchett

Bel Canto by Ann Patchett
(HarperCollins, 2001, 318 pages)

Bel Canto is one of Patchett’s better-known titles, but based on the book summary I wasn’t sure I was going to really get into it. I was pleasantly surprised at how quickly I became invested in the story and the characters. Mr Hosakawa has ventured to an unnamed country in Latin America for a birthday celebration which has been organized in an attempt to get him to build a factory there. The only thing that could get him to come was by ensuring his favorite opera soprano, Roxane Coss, would be there to perform. There are numerous VIPs in attendance, visiting from other countries, and local area bigwigs – the president of the country was supposed to make an appearance, but he chose to stay home and watch his soap opera. The party turns into a hostage situation when a group of terrorists breaks in in an attempt to kidnap the absent president.

The hostage situation takes on an interesting dynamic as the terrorists agree to let a number of them go and hold on only to those they know they can make a statement with. As the situation drags on (from days, to weeks, to months) we see how the relationships between the hostages and their captors (and among the hostages themselves) changes over time. Given that there are so many people from other countries, language is something of an issue. Fortunately, Mr. Hosakawa travels with his interpreter, Gen, who is an incredibly proficient polyglot. Gen makes the rounds to ensure everyone is understood, but as time goes by his services seem to be required less and less by some as they find ways around their language barriers.

This was an interesting read and the ending really got me. I enjoyed Bel Canto and thought the audiobook version was well done.