Finding Heartbeats Beneath the Surface: A Review of 22 Bahnen by Caroline Wahl
There’s something about wandering the aisles of a supermarket that feels both comforting and revealing, don’t you think? When I stumbled upon 22 Bahnen, the debut novel by Caroline Wahl, I was drawn into a world that mirrored my own experience of people-watching through grocery carts. Tilda, the protagonist, has turned this mundane activity into a reflective art—guessing the stories of strangers based solely on what they place on the checkout conveyor. As I delved into the first few pages, I couldn’t help but smile, picturing my own cart filled with peculiarities: broccoli, Vly yogurt, and, of course, a guilty stash of chocolate. But as I turned the pages, I quickly realized that beneath this whimsical setup lay a darker, more complex narrative, one that left me both enchanted and introspective.
At the heart of 22 Bahnen is Tilda, a selfless caretaker trying to keep her family together amid chaos—her mother’s illness and a turbulent home life hanging heavily over her. In a world where love and sacrifice intertwine, Tilda prioritizes the well-being of her sister, Ida, often at her own expense. This familial bond is beautifully rendered, evoking a sense of warmth that easily draws readers in. Tilda’s responsibility and deep affection for Ida painted a vivid picture of sisterhood that was both heart-wrenching and heartwarming.
The author’s ability to capture the nuances of family dynamics, especially in times of adversity, wowed me. Tilda and Ida shared a connection that felt palpable, their relationship radiating a powerful mix of compassion and unyielding strength. Yet, the plot began to shift when Viktor entered the scene—an unexpected catalyst that threw Tilda’s world into disarray. This twist left me feeling disenchanted as the narrative veered into territory that felt contrived. Tilda’s transformation into a romantic subplot seemed to overshadow the rich emotional tapestry that Wahl had woven in the first half. Where I once felt buoyed by hope, I now found myself grappled with frustration.
Despite these pacing issues in the latter half of the book, Wahl’s writing resonated with me at several levels. Her skillful play with language—both light and heavy—allowed the themes of heartache and resilience to shine through. Lines that captured Tilda’s selflessness lingered with me long after I’d closed the book, evoking the bittersweet truth of her journey: “In the depths of despair, we find our greatest strength.”
22 Bahnen is undoubtedly a read that speaks to anyone who understands the complexities of love, sacrifice, and the often harsh realities of life. While the second half may have put a damper on my initial enthusiasm, the first half’s rich storytelling and relatable characters made this a memorable debut. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a deeply emotional story about sisterhood and the myriad ways we navigate the challenges of life. Caroline Wahl has crafted a world that stays with you, leaving me eager for what she might write next.
So here’s to hoping Tilda finds her happy ending, despite the messiness that life throws her way. Because at the end of the day, isn’t that what we all wish for?