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’s two main plotlines focus on two young adults who live in World War II.
Marie-Laure LeBlanc was born blind in Paris, France. As a result, she is very curious and intellectual. Her loving father created detailed, miniature maps of Paris for her to navigate the city. They have a strong bond. The Sea of Flames is one of the most highly sought after diamonds in all of the world. Her father works at the Museum of Natural History. Marie-Laure is a very young girl who learns that the gemstone supposedly carries a curse. This means it will not only immortalize the owner but will also bring a swift fate for all his 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 is appointed as the museum’s head. His father must protect the diamond from any intruders. There have been three copies of the same stone. Marie-Laure will be meeting Ettiene, Marie-Laures’ great uncle, and Madame Manec his amiable homekeeper at Saint-Malo. 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. After Dr. Hauptmann loses his favoritism and he asks to be let go, Werner is sent away to a military training base where he has to find hidden enemies to watch as his co-cadets brutally murder them.