Signal Fires

Signal Fires is a captivating novel by Dani Shapiro, narrated by the author herself. The story takes place on Division Street, where an ancient oak tree stands tall and majestic beneath the stars. It is here where retired doctor Ben Wilf meets ten-year-old Waldo Shenkman, a brilliant but lonely boy who shares his passion for stargazing.

What follows is a story of interconnectedness, secrets, and shared destinies. The novel spans fifty years, and weaves together the lives of the Wilf and Shenkman families in unexpected ways. Shapiro masterfully explores the power of memory, family, and the healing that comes from connection.

The novel begins with an impulsive lie that begets a secret, which forever haunts the Wilf family. But it is not until the Shenkmans move into the neighborhood many years later that the secrets of both families begin to unravel. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that the lives of the two families are intertwined in ways they could never have imagined.

Shapiro's writing is urgent and compassionate, and her storytelling is both magical and grounded in reality. She creates a kaleidoscope of characters that are complex and relatable, and the themes she explores are universal. The novel is a meditation on family, memory, and the healing power of interconnectedness.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Signal Fires is the way Shapiro uses the oak tree as a metaphor for the interconnectedness of all things. The tree is a living symbol of the passage of time and the way in which all lives are intertwined. It is a powerful symbol that Shapiro returns to throughout the novel, and one that adds depth and meaning to the story.

Shapiro's narration of the audiobook is exceptional. Her voice is clear and emotive, and she brings each character to life with authenticity and depth. Her reading adds an extra layer of intimacy to the story, making it feel as if the listener is being told a secret by a close friend.

Signal Fires is a literary tour de force by a masterful storyteller at the height of her powers. It is a luminous meditation on family, memory, and the power of interconnectedness that will resonate with readers long after the final page. If you're looking for a novel that will transport you to another time and place, while also speaking to the universal human experience, Signal Fires is the perfect choice.