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jess_mango's review
3.0
This was an uneven collection of short stories centered around a Vermeer painting. Some of the stories were very good but others just seemed like an after thought.
roguedaffodil's review
adventurous
emotional
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5
saranade's review
emotional
informative
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.25
book_concierge's review
5.0
A previously "undiscovered" Vermeer is revealed and the author traces its ownership back in time to its origination. Each owner (or custodian) has a slightly different reason for wanting to keep the painting, and different reasons for letting it go. Each time it changes hands, the owner is pained to part with it. And still, for everyone it represents longing and wishes unfulfilled.
ess_bee's review
dark
emotional
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.5
alidottie's review
4.0
Really 4 and a half stars--This was the second time I'd read this book. I really enjoy the manner in which this novel is laid out--I found that very entertaining.
**Reading again for a book group I will be facilitating for the library.
**Reading again for a book group I will be facilitating for the library.
alyssajcori's review
5.0
My mother loaned me this book and cited it as one of her favorites from her 20s. Wow. It was excellent!
The novel follows a painting throughout history in reverse chronological order. It’s a fictionalized Vermeer that ends in the hands of a school teacher and starts in Vermeer’s own home with a special model.
Because it’s about a Dutch master this is right up my alley, but regardless of subject matter I thoroughly enjoyed the novel’s structure - traveling in time each chapter with a different set of characters.
There were so many meaningful moments and appreciation of art. I completely loved this one!
The novel follows a painting throughout history in reverse chronological order. It’s a fictionalized Vermeer that ends in the hands of a school teacher and starts in Vermeer’s own home with a special model.
Because it’s about a Dutch master this is right up my alley, but regardless of subject matter I thoroughly enjoyed the novel’s structure - traveling in time each chapter with a different set of characters.
There were so many meaningful moments and appreciation of art. I completely loved this one!
angelamichelle's review
3.0
Very clever structure. Each chapter traces the path of a painting--who has it, what it means to them. The painting illuminates each character. You read to the end of the book to trace back to the beginning of the painting's life. I liked it more and more as I went on.