A review by spootilious
The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict, Victoria Christopher Murray

informative inspiring reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.0

 

I was very conflicted when I decided on the rating for this book. In a way it was breathtaking and unique, in another it took quite a bit of effort to finish. Still at a solid 3.5 I feel this book is well worth the read. 

 

The fact that I hadn’t heard much about Belle Da Costa Greene before The Personal Librarian was published, saddens me. However, Marie Benedict has a way of resurrecting lessor known historical figures and breathing new life into them. Exploring the life of this incredible woman is both entertaining and eye opening as the book addresses prejudice, racism, and sexism without remorse. With elegant writing and wonderful use of language The Personal Librarian draws the reading into the life of a woman torn between two worlds and determined to not only survive but to conquer. 

 

While I loved the subject matter and the historical aspect of this novel, there are a few places where I felt it fell a bit short. While it is obvious that certain dates and events of Belle’s life were adjusted for pacing issues, there were points where the book dragged on and I had to make a conscious effort not to skim through a few paragraphs/pages. There were also points where it felt as though I was reading romance and not historical fiction, as the novel dove into fairly detailed accounts of her affairs, without which I feel the story would be just as well received (while still addressing the consequences of those affairs). 

 

Aside from these instances, I would have loved to have learned more about her career, including how she managed to acquire certain pieces and the career connections she made, or the influences she provided. At the same time, I suppose the book was just enough to get a taste of the intrigue behind the woman and push me to do my own research of her. 

 

I look forward to learning so much more about this incredible individual!