All the Light We Cannot See

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2014

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Part 0, Chapters 1-8Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 0: “7 August 1944”

Chapter 1 Summary: “Leaflets”

Content Warning: This book depicts antisemitism, war, bullying, and violence, including violence against children, as well as rape and sexual assault. These events are referenced in the guide.

Leaflets fall from the sky over the French seaside city of Saint-Malo, warning inhabitants to depart the city immediately for open country. American bombers are preparing to attack the city’s German occupiers.

Chapter 2 Summary: “Bombers”

American bombers arrive from across the sea, descending as they approach the city.

Chapter 3 Summary: “The Girl”

A sightless, 16-year-old girl named Marie-Laure LeBlanc kneels in her room in the house at Number 4 rue Vauborel. She has filled two buckets with water, along with the bathtub. She explores a miniature of the city by touch. The drone of airplanes grows louder.