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A review by bookmaddie
Sirens & Muses by Antonia Angress
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
No doubt, this is one of my favorite books of the year. The story gave me what I rarely find—a not-overtly pretentious story of art, friendship and love in college (and briefly after). Which doesn't really seem like a lot, but I dunno, I've really only read one other book that scratched that itch for me (The Bobcat by Katherine Forbes Riley, which is much quieter but equally beautiful).
The descriptions of studio spaces, critiques, classroom drama, and constant worry over money for supplies brought me back to when I was in art school at a wealthy institution that often ignored the needs of students whose parents couldn't bankroll their (overpriced) education. As the story moved to NYC and focused on Katrina and Louisa figuring out how they wanted to live outside of the bubble of school, I got even more invested. It just all hit in a way that few books have, recently. Everything felt intensely relatable, even over the years that separate when this book takes place and myself—almost like a reflection, where your face is familiar but not quite yours.
And of course, the discussion of art was absolutely delightful! Differing opinions were constantly flying across the page as characters discussed the purpose of art, its commodification, and how one was meant to forge their own future as an artist—as someone starting anew or sculpting a new career out of the ashes of their old one. This shifting narration explored a variety of perspectives and journeys, creating empathy where there was once scorn and giving essential depth to each of our four main characters.
I love!! Read it!! Ahhhh!
The descriptions of studio spaces, critiques, classroom drama, and constant worry over money for supplies brought me back to when I was in art school at a wealthy institution that often ignored the needs of students whose parents couldn't bankroll their (overpriced) education. As the story moved to NYC and focused on Katrina and Louisa figuring out how they wanted to live outside of the bubble of school, I got even more invested. It just all hit in a way that few books have, recently. Everything felt intensely relatable, even over the years that separate when this book takes place and myself—almost like a reflection, where your face is familiar but not quite yours.
And of course, the discussion of art was absolutely delightful! Differing opinions were constantly flying across the page as characters discussed the purpose of art, its commodification, and how one was meant to forge their own future as an artist—as someone starting anew or sculpting a new career out of the ashes of their old one. This shifting narration explored a variety of perspectives and journeys, creating empathy where there was once scorn and giving essential depth to each of our four main characters.
I love!! Read it!! Ahhhh!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Suicidal thoughts