Without Seeing the Dawn (also known as The Lost Ones) is a novel that revolves around people who lived simple lives in the province – until the most unexpected and cruel events came to their small village. Their once peaceful village began to tear apart when disaster after another happened during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines.
What used to be a prosperous place with jolly people became inflicted with death and desperation as the characters struggle to regain what they used to have and to find hope in each other’s company.
The novel also shows the change that happen in people when they transfer from a rural area to the hustle and bustle of city life. It narrates the temptations one faces, the struggles, and the negative side effects on the person and others as well.
Although the story is very depressing (yes, I felt really sad for weeks after finishing the book), I think it is something you should find the time to read. The book has two parts: Day and Dawn. I especially enjoyed the Day part since it portrays life in the province and the young love of the main characters. The courtship part was particularly enjoyable. But, that does not mean I liked the Dawn part less. It was just a bit too heavy for me to take, but I believe it is beautifully written, nonetheless.
If you are looking for a page turner, start looking for a copy of this book. I really commend Stevan Javellana for writing a book that really shows Filipino culture and traditions, and for adding a very dramatic effect on the plot. *Two thumbs up!*
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