Marvel Studios' The Infinity Saga, Black Panther: The Art of the Movie by Eleni Roussos

(Thank you to Titan Books for providing me with a copy of this book!)

about book:

Following the events of Captain America: Civil War, T’Challa returns home to Wakanda to take his place as king. But when two new enemies conspire to destroy the country, the Black Panther must team up with members of the Dora Milaje, Wakanda’s special forces, and CIA agent Everett Ross to protect his home from being dragged into a world war. Go behind the scenes with stunning concept artwork and in-depth analysis from the filmmakers in this collectible volume.

Discover everything you need to know about the making of the movie from all the key players—including Director Ryan Coogler, Executive Producer Nate Moore, Production Designer Hannah Beachler, the talented cast, concept artists, and other talented individuals who worked on the set and behind the scenes to create the art of Marvel Studios’ Black Panther.

my thoughts:

Wakanda Forever, indeed. As a fan of Black Panther, I was thrilled to receive a copy of this beautiful book by Eleni Roussos. It's chock full of art work that depicts the concepts behind the film's scenes and story. There's so much information about the different tribes of Wakanda, which is fascinating. Plus, all of the details about the costumes - so cool to learn about. I couldn't help but geek out over the awesome imagery and commentary included in this book. What a fun and wonderful book! 

I would definitely recommend this Marvel Studios' The Infinity Saga, Black Panther: The Art of the Movie, to fans of Black Panther and fans of Marvel - you are going to thoroughly enjoy this amazing book. Make sure to check it out ASAP! You are going to love it!

Thank you Titan Books for providing me with a copy of this book!

Marvel Studios' The Infinity Saga - Thor: Ragnarok - The Art of the Movie by Eleni Roussos

(Thank you Titan Books for providing me with a copy of this book!)

 

about book: (summary from Goodreads)

Get an exclusive look at the art and designs behind the Mighty Avenger's newest film in this latest installment of the popular ART OF series of movie tie-in books! 

A new all-powerful being threatens the destruction of Asgard, but Thor is trapped on the other side of the universe and must race against time to save his civilization. Go behind the scenes with exclusive concept artwork and in-depth analysis from the filmmakers in this keepsake volume! Continuing their popular Art Of series of movie tie-in books, Marvel presents its latest blockbuster achievement! Featuring exclusive concept artwork, behind-the-scenes photographs, production stills, and in-depth interviews with the cast and crew, this deluxe volume provides insider details about the making of the highly anticipated film.

my thoughts:

Wow! What a fun and fascinating book. I absolutely LOVED flipping through Eleni Roussos' new book, Marvel Studios' The Infinity Saga - Thor: Ragnarok - The Art of the Movie - it was such a treat! I found myself dipping in and out of this book every day for over a week, because I wanted to savor the fun. 

So, what's in the book? Photographs depicting behind the scenes moments, along with stills from the movie itself. Loads of artwork - showcasing concept and production ideas.  And we get to read interviews from both cast and crew- everyone involved with the making of this film. There are just so many cool tidbits about the costumes - from the comics to the actual creation of them for the movie. I loved learning about it all and seeing the art involved. This book was truly a delight to read. Talk about an exciting reading experience for fans of the Marvel universe. 

I would happily recommend this book to anyone and everyone who loves movies, especially Marvel Studios fans. You are going to LOVE this one to bits! Make sure to check it out ASAP! 

Thank you Titan Books for providing me with a copy of this book!

Marvel Studios' The Infinity Saga Spider-Man: Homecoming - The Art of the Movie by Eleni Roussos

(Thank you to Titan Books for providing me with a copy of this book!)

 

about book:

Fresh off the heels of his first adventure with the Avengers in Marvel Studios’ Captain America: Civil War, Peter Parker is back in action! With a mentor like Tony Stark—a.k.a. Iron Man—it looks like Spider-Man’s about to hit the big time. But New York’s newest villain has other plans. Go behind the scenes in this keepsake volume continuing the Marvel Infinity Saga series! Discover exclusive concept art, production stills and commentary from cast and crew as Marvel Studios brings Spider-Man into the ever-expanding Marvel Cinematic Universe!

Discover everything you need to know about the making of the movie from all the key players—including Director Jon Watts, Head of Visual Development Ryan Meinerding, Producer and Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige, and the talented cast, concept illustrators, costume designers, and other talented individuals who worked on the set and behind the scenes to create the art of Marvel Studios’ Spider-Man: Homecoming.

my thoughts:

Wow! I am in awe of the amazing artwork included in this awesome new book by Eleni Roussos, Marvel Studios' The Infinity Saga Spider-Man: Homecoming - The Art of the Movie. If you are fan of Marvel or Spider-Man then this book is most definitely for you. I'm a huge fan of both, so I was thrilled to get my hands on a copy of this cool new book. A behind-the-scenes look at one of my favorite superhero films - how fun does that sound?! My favorite superheroes are Wonder Woman, Batman, Superman, Wolverine, and Spider-Man.  I really enjoyed the last few Spider-man films - they felt fresh and exciting, and made me want to rewatch the whole slew of them all over again. So, I'm really looking forward to the new one that they are currently filming. It'll be fun to see what happens to Peter next. 

As for this fantastic book - whoa! I am in love with it. I am truly enjoying flipping through and marveling over the artwork - ha ha, pun intended. Although, I am marveling over it - how could I not? Plus, I am loving the yearbook layout - makes for a fun and creative way to check out the details and plans for this epic story. What a gorgeous book! 

I would happily recommend this lovely tome to anyone and everyone looking for their next great read, however I'd especially urge fans of Marvel and Spider-Man to grab a copy ASAP - you won't want to mis out on this awesome book! 

Thank you to Titan Books for providing me with this book!

Day 1/100 of The 100 Day Project Challenge

The 100 Day Project starts now! Woo hoo! I'm really excited to participate in this year's challenge. Here are the three projects I will be working on:

1. Read a paperback set of Jane Austen's novels that I recently purchased. I'll be starting with:

2. and 3. I'll be writing and art journaling in my new Louise Carmen notebook cover:

I'll be sharing all about my projects throughout the next 100 days. Wish me luck!

World Of Color: A Journey Of Coloring Challenges by Kerby Rosanes

(Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!)

 

about book: (summary from Goodreads)

From the global coloring sensation, a new, dazzling compilation of colorists' favorite images from Kerby Rosanes's stupefying Worlds series.

World of Color is a book of coloring challenges that showcase the internationally bestselling illustrator's astounding artistic skill through eighty pages of super-detailed artwork in Kerby's signature style. Loyal fans and newcomers alike will be entranced and enthralled as they step into his singular imagination.

Featuring a full-color sixteen-page section at the beginning to display the work of some of Kerby's most talented fans, the original art in this section will demonstrate the incredible, unique approaches that colorists can try their hands at in the subsequent pages.

my thoughts:

Wow! What a beautiful coloring book! Kerby Rosanes has knocked it out of the park - again! Talk about fun and creative illustrations! This adult coloring book is chock full of intricate drawings that will mesmerize you and provide you with hours (and hours) of coloring excitement. I just loved putting on some music, grabbing my colored pencils, and diving into my copy of World Of Color - what a relaxing way to unwind. 

Rosanes has compiled a variety of images to fill in and they are just awesome to look at. You get to look at dragons, underwater scenes, tigers, and outer space. It is enthralling! What a talented artist! I would happily recommend World Of Color to fans of Rosanes and to anyone looking for some coloring fun - you are going to fall in love with this book! Make sure to check it out! Or gift it to some one you know will enjoy filling up those pages with all the glorious colors of the rainbow. 

Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!

Ulysses: An Illustrated Edition by James Joyce, and Illustrated by Eduardo Arroyo

Out today:

(Thank you to Other Press for providing me with a copy of this book!)

 

Other Press has released a beautiful and unique edition of James Joyce's beloved classic, Ulysses: An Illustrated Edition. Chock full of marvelous artwork by the talented Eduardo Arroyo, this gorgeous book will captivate you right from the start. You won't be able to stop yourself from purchasing a copy of this book for yourself and for a friend (or three).  It is just too lovely a book to miss out on. You must get your hands on a copy of it ASAP! And once you do, savor the experience - reading Joyce's magnificent writing and Arroyo's brilliant artwork at your leisure. Trust me, this is one book you will truly enjoy and never forget.

Check out some of the fantastic illustrations in the book:

I mean seriously, how amazing, right? I'm so excited to reread Joyce and check out all of Arroyo's incredible art - talk about literature at its very best! 

Definitely make sure to check out this new edition and enjoy this unique literary collaboration. It's a must-read for all fans of literature!

The Unbreakables: A Novel by Lisa Barr

about book:

A delicious, sharp novel about a woman who jets off to France after her perfect marriage collapses, putting the broken pieces of herself back together while rediscovering her own joie de vivre—a lust for life, art, and steamy sex. 

The worst birthday ever might just be the gift of a lifetime…

It’s Sophie Bloom’s forty-second birthday, and she’s ready for a night of celebration with Gabe, her longtime, devoted husband, and her two besties and their spouses. Dinner is served with a side of delicious gossip, including which North Grove residents were caught with their pants down on Ashley Madison after the secret on-line dating site for married and committed couples was hacked. Thirty-two million cheaters worldwide have been exposed…including Sophie’s “perfect” husband. To add insult to injury, she learns Gabe is the top cheater in their town. 

Humiliated and directionless, Sophie jumps into the unknown and flees to France to meet up with her teenage daughter who is studying abroad and nursing her own heartbreak. After a brief visit to Paris, Sophie heads out to the artist enclave of Saint-Paul-de-Vence. There, for the first time in a long time, Sophie acknowledges her own desires—not her husband’s, not her daughter’s—and rediscovers her essence with painful honesty and humor, reawakening both her sensuality and ambitions as a sculptor. 

As she sheds her past and travels the obstacle-filled off beaten path, Sophie Bloom is determined to blossom. Allowing her true self to emerge in the postcard beauty of Provence, Sophie must decide what is broken forever...and what it means to be truly unbreakable.

“Artful, feminist, and emotionally gripping. The Unbreakables is a remarkable tribute to a woman’s strength in the face of heartbreak and adversity.” — Helen Hoang, author of The Kiss Quotient

Smart, sure and sexy, The Unbreakables is unforgettable.” — Pam Jenoff, New York Times bestselling author of The Orphan’s Tale and The Lost Girls of Paris

“This exquisitely wrought novel will appeal to readers who believe in the redemption of new beginnings.” — Publishers Weekly

my thoughts:

For Paris in July I finally picked up my copy of The Unbreakables.  I bought the book over a year ago, but never found myself ready to read it. I figured the time was finally now. And so, I dove right in. Let me just say, I wish I had pulled myself right out of it. The book was a dud for me. Definitely not my cup of tea.  

The only parts of the book I enjoyed reading about were the ones that included descriptions of France and all its glories (museums, cafes, restaurants, countryside).  The story itself, well, I found myself rolling my eyes and skim reading it. There were just too many cliches, caricatures, and unfulfilling storylines. Basically, Sophie finds out her husband has cheated on her throughout their entire marriage. She's devastated and heads to France to be with their daughter - she called her mom crying that her boyfriend had cheated on her. Turns out she cheated on her boyfriend with a married man and may be pregnant. How ridiculous is that? Anyhow, I'm sure you can guess what happens next. Sophie sets about discovering herself in France. And, there you have it. That's the whole story. Talk about predictable with a capital P. 

So, why did I keep reading the book instead of DNFing it? France. Reading about France is the only thing that kept me turning pages. Sophie finally visiting the Café de Flore, walking around the Rodin museum, and driving through the French countryside - all of that was worth reading. I couldn't help but daydream about these places as Sophie walked around them or sat outside them. Those were the fun parts of the book. All in all, The Unbreakables was just not for me. Oh well, can't love them all, right? 

And now, I'm off to read something by Sally Rooney. I've been managing a book or two a day, and I want to keep that reading streak going, so I have decided to dive into a book by an author that I consider to be "a sure thing" - meaning, the book won't disappoint. 

Hope you all are staying safe and enjoying a great read.  

Little Dancer Aged Fourteen: The True Story Behind Degas's Masterpiece by Camille Laurens

(Thank you to Other Press for providing me with a copy of this book!)

 

about book:

This absorbing, heartfelt work uncovers the story of the real dancer behind Degas’s now-iconic sculpture, and the struggles of late nineteenth-century Parisian life. 

She is famous throughout the world, but how many know her name? You can admire her figure in Washington, Paris, London, New York, Dresden, or Copenhagen, but where is her grave? We know only her age, fourteen, and the work that she did—because it was already grueling work, at an age when children today are sent to school. In the 1880s, she danced as a “little rat” at the Paris Opera, and what is often a dream for young girls now wasn’t a dream for her. She was fired after several years of intense labor; the director had had enough of her repeated absences. She had been working another job, even two, because the few pennies the Opera paid weren’t enough to keep her and her family fed. She was a model, posing for painters or sculptors—among them Edgar Degas.

Drawing on a wealth of historical material as well as her own love of ballet and personal experiences of loss, Camille Laurens presents a compelling, compassionate portrait of Marie van Goethem and the world she inhabited that shows the importance of those who have traditionally been overlooked in the study of art.

my thoughts:

What an amazing book! I absolutely LOVED Little Dancer Aged Fourteen by Camille Laurens. It was such a fascinating read - part art history, socio-economics lesson, and a personal narrative all rolled into one. I truly enjoyed settling down with this short book and taking my time with it. I found myself captivated from the start and jotting down notes about Degas, the "little rats", and Paris in the late nineteenth  century. 

So, what's the book about? Marie van Goethem.  She's the inspiration/muse behind Degas's sculpture, Little Dancer Aged Fourteen.  This book is about her, and the other "little rats" in Degas's artwork.  Yep, Degas referred to his art subjects as "little rats".  These poor girls who worked hard and lived hard trying to make ends meet.  They were sexualized, ignored, and forgotten about when they were off stage, but when they were dancing, these "little rats" were revered and idolized for their skill and talent.  Laurens shines light on Degas's "little rats", Degas, and Paris.  And, it all makes for quite an unforgettable read. 

I would happily recommend Little Dancer Aged Fourteen by Camille Laurens to fans of art, nonfiction, and history - you will fall in deep with this book. The writing is top notch, smart, and engaging. And the subject matter will keep you turning pages and thinking about the art world, Degas, Marie van Goethem, and Paris. You won't be able to put this book down for anything. I know that I didn't. And, I loved every minute I spent with this book. Definitely check it out or gift it to someone you know who loves art and nonfiction - makes for a great stocking stuffer!  

Thank you to Other Press for providing me with a copy of this book!

America The Beautiful: A Story In Photographs by National Geographic

 

(Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!)

about book:

This glorious book of photography, featuring more than 200 magnificent National Geographic images of all 50 states, is a gift-worthy celebration of America’s unique natural and cultural treasures.

America the Beautiful showcases the stunning spaces closest to our nation’s heart–from the woods in the Great Appalachian Valley that Davy Crockett once called home to the breathtaking sweep of California’s Big Sur coast to the wilds of Alaska. It also celebrates the people who have made this country what it is, featuring a wide range of images including the Arikara Nation in the early 1900s and scientists preparing for travel to Mars on a Hawaiian island. Culled from more than 130 years of National Geographic’s vaunted archives, this provocative collection depicts the splendor of this great nation as only National Geographic can, with a dramatic combination of modern and historical imagery–from the creation of architectural icons like the Golden Gate Bridge and Lady Liberty to the last of the country’s wild places currently preserved in our national parks.

Organized by chapters focused on region (west coast and the Pacific, east coast, the south, and the Midwest) that are themselves inspired by verses of the original poem America the Beautiful, this book also features a moving introduction offering perspective on the country’s unique journey. You’ll also find behind-the-scenes commentary from the world-renowned photographers who captured this unforgettable imagery, and observations from the conservationists, activists, and historians who help keep America beautiful today. Profound and inspiring, this is a book for everyone who has ever marveled at the beauty of the United States.

my thoughts:

Wow! America The Beautiful by National Geographic is AMAZING!! I am in LOVE with this book. It is going to be prominently displayed on my coffee table forevermore. This is a book that I know everyone will want to flip through and get lost in - it is seriously that beautiful. National Geographic never disappoints and this time round they hit it out of the park. This gorgeous book is filled to the brim with fantastic photographs of America and its divided by region, so you get to armchair travel throughout the entire country.  There are tidbits and observations included by the photographers, activists, and historians. It's fascinating and breathtaking. You can't help but be in awe of the vastness of America and the diversity of it. It is truly beautiful.  I enjoyed turning the pages and getting swept away to parts of the country that I've never been to, but now want to visit. This is a book you want to get your hands on - it's just so amazing! You have to experience it for yourself. 

I would definitely recommend National Geographic's latest tome, America The Beautiful: A Story In Photographs to everyone - it is an excellent book that you won't want to miss out on. 

Here's the link to the TLC Book Tour schedule for: America The Beautiful

Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!

Women: The National Geographic Image Collection

(Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!)

about book:

This powerful photography collection, drawn from the celebrated National Geographic archive, reveals the lives of women from around the globe, accompanied by revelatory new interviews and portraits of contemporary trailblazers including Oprah Winfrey, Jane Goodall, and Christiane Amanpour.

#MeToo. #GirlBoss. Time’s Up. From Silicon Valley to politics and beyond, women are reshaping our world. Now, in anticipation of the 100th anniversary of the 19th amendment, this bold and inspiring book from National Geographic mines 130 years of photography to showcase their past, their present, and their future. With 300+ stunning images from more than 50 countries, each page of this glorious book offers compelling testimony about what it means to be female, from historic suffragettes to the haunting, green-eyed “Afghan girl.”

Organized around chapter themes like grit, love, and joy, the book features brand-new commentary from a wide swath of luminaries including Laura Bush, Gloria Allred, Roxane Gay, Melinda Gates, New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern, and the founders of the #MeToo and Black Lives Matter movements. Each is accompanied by a bold new portrait, shot by acclaimed NG photographer Erika Larsen. The ultimate coffee table book, this iconic collection provides definitive proof that the future is female.

my thoughts:

Oh my, gorgeousness! Women by The National Geographic Image Collection is beyond stunning.  I fell in so deep with this beautiful tome chock full of images of women from all over the world.  These photographs captured so much emotion, history, and livelihood - they were brilliant. I spent days with this book, just pouring over the each picture and finding myself smiling, tearing up and just taking it all in. The strength and fortitude of women is crystal clear throughout the book and I just loved that. Women is one book you most definitely don't want to miss out on. It is truly special and makes for quite the reading experience. I absolutely LOVED it to bits. And, I can't wait to share it with loved ones - I just know they are going to enjoy looking through this book and placing it front and center on their coffee tables.

I would happily recommend Women to fans of National Geographic and anyone interested in their next great read - you will LOVE this book!!

Here's the link to the TLC Book Tour schedule for: Women

Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!

Learning to See: A Novel by Elise Hooper

(Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!)

about book:

“Written with grace, empathy, and bright imagination, Learning to See gives us the vivid interior life of a remarkably resilient woman. Dorothea Lange’s story is about passion and art, love and family, but also about the sacrifices women make—and have always made—to illuminate the truth of the world.” —Danya Kukafka, national bestselling author of Girl in Snow

Learning to See is a gripping account of the Dorothea Lange, the woman behind the camera who risked everything for art, activism, and love.
In 1918, a fearless twenty-two-year old arrives in bohemian San Francisco from the Northeast, determined to make her own way as an independent woman. Renaming herself Dorothea Lange she is soon the celebrated owner of the city’s most prestigious and stylish portrait studio and wife of the talented but volatile painter, Maynard Dixon.

By the early 1930s, as America’s economy collapses, her marriage founders and Dorothea must find ways to support her two young sons single-handedly. Determined to expose the horrific conditions of the nation’s poor, she takes to the road with her camera, creating images that inspire, reform, and define the era. And when the United States enters World War II, Dorothea chooses to confront another injustice—the incarceration of thousands of innocent Japanese Americans.

At a time when women were supposed to keep the home fires burning, Dorothea Lange, creator of the most iconic photographs of the 20^th century, dares to be different. But her choices came at a steep price…

my thoughts:

What a fantastic book! I absolutely LOVED it!! I'm a huge fan of historical fiction, so I was excited to get the chance to review Elise Hooper's latest novel, Learning to See: A Novel of Dorothea Lange, the Woman Who Revealed the Real America.  Let me just say - AMAZING!! This book was such a treat to read - history, art, and America - what more could I want, right? How about a badass photographer named Dorothea Lange who set out to capture images portraying the real lives of the impoverished Americans and the interned Japanese.  Yep, this book tells us all about it and it is superb.

Learning to See is the fictionalized story of famed photographer, Dorothea Lange.  A woman who's work captured an important part of American history - the plight of the poor and the interned Japanese - the Great Depression and WWII.  She showed the world what people were truly experiencing - how they were living, working, and just trying to survive.  In this captivating story we get to see Lange start out and find her passion.  We read about her marriage and family - the difficulties of trying to balance it all.  And, we see how she struggles to raise her children, support them, and continue to pursue her passion of photography.  Such a great story of an American talent.

Hooper has written a captivating novel that you can't help but fall in love with.  The rich details provide a full, engaging history of Lange's life.  Her perspective is clear, driven, and personal.  I just loved diving into this book in the evenings and getting lost in a different era of American history - it was such a treat. I would happily recommend this book to fans of Hooper and Lange - you will LOVE this novel so much!!

Here's the link to the TLC Book Tour schedule for: Learning to See

Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!

Spectacle: Rare And Astonishing Photographs by National Geographic

(Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!)

about book:

An exquisite photo collection showcasing awe-inducing moments from around the world, including the aurora borealis, cities made of neon lights, a great wildebeest migration, a contortionist on display–and more.

In life, there are certain sights that are as beautiful as they are unforgettable–from a majestic supercell to the secrets of a deep blue ice cave to the world’s largest library. These fascinating spectacles shock us in their diversity, their complexity, and their epic scale, bringing us the miraculous beauty of our planet. Featuring more than 200 color images, including acclaimed photography from the National Geographic Image Collection, this volume presents a dazzling array of natural and manmade wonders, unusual phenomena, and amusing curiosities. Each page will enlighten and inspire, presenting our world at its best.

my thoughts:

Wow. National Geographic has done it again.  Another awesome book chock full of beautiful photographs capturing nature, cities, and people.  It is simply breathtaking. I mean it, this book will just "wow" you.  I found myself sipping a cuppa and flipping through the pages of this coffee table sized book and just thinking, "Wow!"  I was truly amazed at the photographers' abilities to capture action shots and close-ups that seemed to breathe life with such a vibrancy - I was mesmerized.

Spectacle has a variety of images from all over the world, which makes it thrilling to look at.  You feel as if you are traveling to different places as you turn the pages.  This book inspires and teaches- it is such an excellent tome to get lost in.  I absolutely enjoyed spending time with it. Poring over stunning photographs that are colorful, rich, and vivid was such a treat.  This is one book that I will happily look through again and again.  And, it is a book that I know will make for a terrific holiday gift.  I can't wait to share it with family and friends.

I would happily recommend Spectacle to fans of National Geographic, fans of photography, and fans of coffee table books - you will LOVE this book to bits!

Here's the link to the TLC Book Tours schedule for: Spectacle

Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!

The White Crucifixion: A novel about Marc Chagall by Michael Dean

(Thank you to Holland Park Press for providing me with a copy of this book!)

about book:

Fiction. Art. Jewish Studies. THE WHITE CRUCIFIXION starts with Chagall's difficult birth in Vitebsk 1887, in the present-day Belarus, and tells the unlikely story of how the eldest son of a herring schlepper became enrolled in art school where he quickly gained a reputation as "Moyshe, the painting wonder."

The novel paints an authentic picture of a Russian town divided by belief and wealth, rumours of pogroms never far away, yet bustling with talented young artists.

In 1913, Chagall relished the opportunity to move to Paris to take up residence in the artist colony The Hive (La Ruche). The Yiddish-speaking artists (Ecole Juive) living there were all poor. The Hive had no electric light, or running water and yet many of its artists were to become famous, among them Amedeo Modigliani and Osip Zadkine.

The novel vividly portrays the dynamics of an artist colony, its pettiness, friendships and the constant battle to find the peace and quiet to work.

In 1914 Chagall and Bella make what's supposed to be a fleeting visit to his beloved Vitebsk, only to get trapped there by the outbreak of the first world war, the subsequent Russian revolution, and the establishment of the communist regime which is increasingly hostile towards artists like Chagall.

Yet, Chagall keeps on painting, and the novel provides a fascinating account of what inspired some of his greatest painting. He manages to return to France and is reunited with his paintings only to be thwarted by yet another world war which proves disastrous for the people he knew in Vitebsk which include his uncle Neuch, the original "Fiddler On The Roof."

THE WHITE CRUCIFIXION is a fictionalised account of the rollercoaster life of one of the most enigmatic artists of the twentieth century.

my thoughts:

Wow! What a wonderful story - a fictionalized account of one of the greatest artists, Marc Chagall.  We learn about his birth, his upbringing, his art, his love, his passion, etc..  Talk about an exciting life!  I loved getting to know Chagall through this book - learning about the personal so that we could better understand his passion.  Michael Dean has written a beautiful novel chock full of emotion, history, and creativity - I loved it!

The White Crucifixion details different moments in Chagall's life as he grew and expanded into his artwork.  We learn about the ways in which war and his country inspired his paintings.  We read about the ups and downs he experienced throughout his life.  And we find a man who paints, paints, paints the world around him.  Its mesmerizing to read about Chagall's life - I found myself looking up his paintings as I read this book. I was captivated by the colors, images, history that flowed through his creations.  What a rich reading experience!  I would happily recommend this novel to fans of Chagall and anyone looking for their next great read - you will LOVE this book!



Thank you to Holland Park Press for providing me with a copy of this book!

Tokyo Street Style: A Coloring Book by Zoe de la Cases

(Thank you to Blogging for Books for providing me with a copy of this book!)

about book:

Adult coloring gets a makeover with charming, fashion-forward illustrations from this futuristic and glittering city. 

Wherever you’re off to, take Tokyo Street Style with you. Immerse yourself in this colorful city full of vibrant fashion and unique architecture. The stylish essentials laid out from your suitcase, elegant kimonos in store windows, and fashion-forward city dwellers complement the modern skylines. Embellish whimsical, full-page patterns with your own touch and enjoy Tokyo while you make your way through an iconic city.

This sleek, high-end package has an elastic closure and a satin ribbon marker so you can dip in and dip out of your own Tokyo fashion week. With nothing more than some colored pencils, you’ll be on your way to a perfect day.

my thoughts:

I am all about finding creative ways to de-stress and unwind.  So, I thought I'd give adult coloring books a try and let me just say - I am in love!! I'm serious, coloring books are now my jam.  And my new favorite coloring book is Tokyo Street Style. I just loved flipping through the pages of this coloring book and getting a peek into Japanese fashion - talk about style with a capital S!  Plus, we get to see some great images of the architecture in Tokyo - such stunning buildings. 
I really enjoyed filling in the pages with vibrant colors and shades of pinks, yellows, blues, reds, and greens.  I loved imagining the city through these colorful images and couldn't help but think of little stories for each one.  What a fun book!

I would absolutely recommend Tokyo Street Style to fans of adult coloring books and anyone looking for a creative way to relax - you will LOVE this book!!

I received this book from Blogging For Books for this review.

Paris in July 2017

Its back!! Yes, Paris in July is here once again to brighten our summer days.  Hurrah!!  And to top it off, its the tenth anniversary - yes, 10 years of Paris in July have flown right by.  How exciting!!

So, what exactly is Paris in July?  Its the blogging event where we blog about all things French during the month of July.  How fun does that sound?  You can post as much as, or as little as you want.  And it can be about anything: books, music, art, food, the cities, museums, etc..  Hosted by Tamara from Thyme for Tea, this fun and fantastic event starts now.  Just head on over to her blog and link your posts so that we can check them out - Thyme for Tea.

Here are the books I've put aside for Paris in July:

What do you think? Not a bad bunch, eh? Now, I just have to decide which one to read first.  Happy reading!!

The Yellow House: A novel about Vincent van Gogh by Jeroen Blokhuis

(Thank you to Holland Park Press for providing me with a copy of this book!)

about book: (from Goodreads)

The Yellow House, by Jeroen Blokhuis, paints a fictional picture of Vincent van Gogh’s life between August 1888 and December 1889 when he lived in Arles in Southern France and where he created many of his masterpieces.

In his debut novel Jeroen Blokhuis tells the story from van Gogh’s point of view, from inside his mind, providing a fresh and revealing look at how this intriguing painter worked.

The Vincent in this novel very much tries to fit in, but is often baffled by how people react. Almost as if he can only express himself through his paintings, which in turn flummox the public. In one scene people literally turn up to see Vincent and Gauguin paint Marie Ginoux, but he, Vincent, is just concerned about creating a good painting.

my thoughts:

When I think of Vincent van Gogh, I think of:

1. Starry Night.
2. Sunflowers.
3. Cafe Terrace at Night
4. He cut off his ear?

And now, having read The Yellow House: A novel about Vincent van Gogh by Jeroen Blokhuis, I think of:

1.  painting, painting, painting
2. Gauguin
3. friendship
4. belonging
5. the yellow house
6.  his ear
7.  sadness, confusion, madness

I feel as if I've just read van Gogh's journal for the year 1888 through 1889.  Blokhuis has written in such an engaging and open manner, that you can't help but feel as if you are there beside van Gogh.  I could taste the night air, hear the sizzle of meat hitting the frying pan as Gauguin cooked, and sit at the crowded cafe next to both artists as they people watch.  I can hear van Gogh's thoughts as he  wonders how Gauguin is able to befriend the people of Arles, while he can't even get them to converse with him.  He seems desperate for this friendship with Gauguin to succeed.  And then I see him hospitalized and trying to make sense of disturbing images that seem to plague him.  It is a mesmerizing peek into the life of a man who created such beauty, all the while suffering from such deep sadness, insecurity and despair.

I found myself captivated by this story.  I enjoyed getting to know van Gogh and Gauguin.  I loved the passion and talent they both had for art.  I felt that Blokhuis captured their relationship perfectly - dysfunctional with a capital D.  I found myself googling their paintings and getting lost in the images they created.  This book took hold and didn't let go.  I absolutely loved it.

I would happily recommend this novel to fans of Vincent van Gogh and anyone looking for their next great read - you will LOVE this book!




Thank you to Holland Park Press for providing me with a copy of this book!

Paris in July begins...NOW!

Yep, its that time again!  Thyme for Tea's annual Paris in July month long event is back.  Hurrah!  All things French all month long - how exciting is that!?!  I am super excited to join in on the fun.  I plan on reading some great books, listening to Tiersen (my go-to for French music), and finding some new-to-me films to watch.   And, I'll be indulging in some macarons as well.

Here are the books I plan on reading:

What do you think? Not a bad batch, eh?  Do you have any suggestions for me?  I'm excited for the Hemingway and the Laurain.  I'm also hoping to watch a movie or two.  And, I can't wait to read what everyone else posts about for  Paris in July.  Should be a fun month! If you want to join in, then head on over to Tamara's blog, Thyme for Tea, to get all the details.  Hope to see you there!  Au revoir!

Art from Dreams: My Jungian Journey in Collage, Assemblage, and Poetry by Susan Levin

(Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!)

about book:

ART FROM DREAMS: MY JUNGIAN JOURNEY in COLLAGE, ASSEMBLAGE, and POETRY celebrates artistic expression as an exploration for self-awareness. Art-making and poetry reveal to ourselves and to others the images and feelings that arise within us in dreams. The very process of creation taps into the source of our inner wisdom.  The mediums of collage and assemblage illustrate that readers do not need to have any experience or expertise in art to use their images for personal insight.  Poetry itself can be accessible as a collage of named images put together in various forms to communicate to and from our innermost selves.

my thoughts:

I love poetry and art and anything creative that reflects someone's internal thoughts, emotions, opinions.  So, when I was offered the chance to review Susan Levin's book, Art from Dreams, I jumped at the chance.  How could I not?  A book filled with poems and images of the artwork that resulted from Levin's experience with a professional Jungian dream analyst and her dreams.  I found myself utterly captivated by it all.  The idea of how much our dreams can influence and inspire our creativity is fascinating.  And just from looking through Levin's book, I can see that she was deeply compelled to explore and examine her dreams.  She was able to reflect her subconscious through images and words in such an artistically authentic manner.  The items she chose to put in her assemblages do not merely represent themselves, but they also become a part of her narrative and take on a new identity.  I loved this idea of re-purposing in her art. 

I love the images we get from Levin and can see them running through her mind during her nighttime slumbers - they are so clearly reflected in these beautiful, thought-provoking pieces.  From one piece to the next, you are able to get a peek into Levin's personal world (past, present, and future).  As for the poetry that accompanies the artwork in the first part of the book, they were written after each piece had been created.  I'm in love with these two poems:

Mother      

Instincts can malfunction
Become defective, deficient, half-baked
There should be a recipe for Motherhood
Exact measurements
The precise amount of ingredient
Or else sweets for no one



Picasso Dream       

Dreamt Picasso said:
keep trying different things
Life itself is art


Art from Dreams by Susan Levin is definitely a book that I will happily peruse time and time again.  I love the idea that each time I open the book, I will be discovering something new inside - the meanings will change over time for me and I love that about art and poetry.  This is one book that I would happily recommend to fans of poetry, art, and books about dreams.


Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!

An Object of Beauty: A Novel by Steve Martin

From book flap:

"I am tired, so very tired of thinking about Lacey Yeager, yet I worry that unless I write her story down, and see it bound and tidy on my bookshelf, I will be unable to ever write about anything else"

So writes Daniel Franks, the narrator of a story about the woman he's been unable to let go of for years...Lacey Yeager is young, captivating, and ambitious enough to take on the notoriously demanding art world of New York City.  Groomed at Sotheby's and hungry to keep climbing the social and career ladders put before her, Lacey charms men and women, old and young, rich and even richer with her charisma and liveliness.  Her career sends her zipping all over Manhattan, the east coast, and even St. Petersburg, and her self-manufactured allure makes the reader wonder if it is not she who is the object of beauty.  Her ascension to the highest tiers of New York parallels the soaring heights - and, at times, the darkest lows - of the art world and the country from the late 1990s through today. 

My thoughts:

I loved this book!  It was intelligent, informative, interesting and extremely well written.  Truthfully, it made me aware of what a talented author Martin is.  The ease and flow of the story, coupled with the fascinating characters who are real and flawed, made for quite a captivating read.  I was spellbound from the first page.  What Martin has done is create a book that not only tells us the story of the rise and fall of Lacey Yeager, but also teaches us about a world filled with hiearchy, duplicity and money.   He also includes pictures of the very paintings being held at auction or adorning the walls of someone's NYC apartment - which I loved looking at!  And, he teaches us how to discern an authentic from a knock-off, the reasons why an artist suddenly becomes so popular and how much money it  takes to run a gallery.  In fact, you are left wondering why you hadn't ever wanted to learn about the NYC art scene before (or at least I was). 

Steve Martin has written a brilliant book about a woman determined to succeed in a world that runs on riches, art and reputation; a woman who is an object of beauty and so much more.  Read it!

Happy reading!!