Plot Summary Of All The Light We Cannot See
Anthony Doerr’s captivating novel All the Light We Cannot See explores the many ways we “see” and the need to have multiple eyesights in order to see the interconnectedness that individuals share. Doerr is able to tell the story of two young adults in World War II.
Marie-Laure LeBlanc grew up blind in Paris and is now an extremely intelligent girl. Her loving father created detailed, miniature maps of Paris for her to navigate the city. They have a strong bond. Her father, a locksmith in Paris, is the Museum of Natural History. It houses one of most highly sought-after diamonds: the Sea of Flames. Marie-Laure was a little girl when she learned that the gemstone supposedly has a curse. It supposedly has the ability to not only immortalize but also bring a swift fate to the owner’s loved ones. Jutta, his younger brother, and he form a close bond. They listen to the voice of the speaker and discover a broadcast about the sciences. Werner must now step into his young career and is appointed to the National Institution. Werner is sent to the school as a boarding student because of his radio skills. Werner cannot forget his youth but can’t help but feel the loss of friendship and love.
As World War II progresses in France, the Germans invade France. Marie-Laure’s father has to run from Paris. He brings a knapsack of necessities and the most important item, the Sea of Flames. Marie-Laure’s father was appointed by the museum’s head. He is responsible for protecting the diamond from potential invaders. Marie-Laure will be met at Saint-Malo by Ettiene, Marie-Laure’s eccentric great uncle, and Madame Manec his friendly housekeeper. Marie-Laure soon falls in love with Madame Manec and begins to become friends with Etienne’s playful and scientific personality. She learns that Etienne’s brother Henri used radio stations to broadcast educational programs for children about scientific phenomena around the globe.
Werner is soon working to create a sophisticated radar system that will help in the hunt for enemy soldiers. Werner meets Dr. Hauptmann in Germany. Werner is introduced to a variety of people, including Frank Volkheimer, a gentle giant, and Frederick, a shy, innocent naturalist. Werner’s time at Schulpforta increases and he feels the pressure to betray his core values. The boys also teach Werner how to maintain the image of a loyal Nazi. While Frederick is the embodiment of what Werner longs for and refuses torture, Werner follows his example. Dr. Hauptmann loses his favoritism and asks for leave. Werner is then sent to a military camp to search for hidden enemies, then watch his fellow cadets brutally murder them.
