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A review by lattelibrarian
Self-Portrait with Boy by Rachel Lyon
5.0
This is probably the most shocking, relentless, and morally ambiguous books I've read all year. And I loved it. When Lu Rile gets an opportunity to make it big--like, really make it big--she wonders whether the payoff would be worth the pain of showcasing a self portrait with her neighbor's son jumping to his death in the background. But how does one exactly bring up that conversation?
Surrounded by others currently "making it" in the art world, it's no wonder that Lu decides to show her painting. She works three jobs. Her neighbors' sole occupations are as artists. To specially print out her photographs, it takes months worth of saving up money. Her neighbors can crank out art supplies and whip out checks like they're worth nothing.
So when she finally gets this opportunity, this horrible, golden opportunity, it's really no surprise. But that doesn't mean that she doesn't lose friendships along the way.
It was simply fascinating to get into Lu Rile's head and to view the world as she views it. Not only that, but I learned so much about art and photography that I never even really thought of before (which was perfect because I coincidentally got to visit lots of museums after reading this!). I'd definitely recommend this to those who like books like My Year of Rest and Relaxation, or who want something that's a little shocking, a little risque, and a little risky.
Review cross-listed here!
Surrounded by others currently "making it" in the art world, it's no wonder that Lu decides to show her painting. She works three jobs. Her neighbors' sole occupations are as artists. To specially print out her photographs, it takes months worth of saving up money. Her neighbors can crank out art supplies and whip out checks like they're worth nothing.
So when she finally gets this opportunity, this horrible, golden opportunity, it's really no surprise. But that doesn't mean that she doesn't lose friendships along the way.
It was simply fascinating to get into Lu Rile's head and to view the world as she views it. Not only that, but I learned so much about art and photography that I never even really thought of before (which was perfect because I coincidentally got to visit lots of museums after reading this!). I'd definitely recommend this to those who like books like My Year of Rest and Relaxation, or who want something that's a little shocking, a little risque, and a little risky.
Review cross-listed here!