Stories That Bloom
By Tari Hendrickson, Reviewer
The Secret Life of Sunflowers by Marta Molnar
How did the art of Vincent Van Gogh become famous? At his sudden death, Van Gogh’s expressive paintings languished unappreciated and unsold. This historical fiction reveals a surprising story. We learn about the hard life of Johanna Bonger, who endured marriage to Theo Van Gogh (Vincent’s brother) among other challenges. She worked tirelessly to ensure that the world would appreciate Vincent Van Gogh’s evocative works of art after his early death in 1890. The author shares Bonger’s admirable tale, along with a present-day parallel story—with a link to Vincent—about a woman facing contemporary challenges, strengthening the theme of what it means to be an inspiring woman.
Lincoln City Libraries has no physical copies – available electronically.
No Two Persons by Erica Bauermeister
“No two persons ever read the same book.” The quote is attributed to American writer and critic Edmund Wilson, emphasizing how individual experiences shape unique interpretations of a text; a perception used by author Erica Bauermeister in this novel. Unfolding within the framework of Bauermeister’s novel are the stories of what happens to (fictional) readers of a (fictional) novel. Alice’s debut novel titled "Theo" changes not only her life but will change the lives of each of the nine characters who read it in subsequent chapters. I found this novel about the characters and their stories to be most moving and thought-provoking. An excellent choice for book clubs to consider.
Lincoln City Libraries has 7 copies – not available electronically.
Women in Sunlight by Frances Mayes
Author Frances Mayes offers delicious (literally!) descriptions of life in the Tuscan region of Italy with strong effect in this novel. Three American women in their sixties meet while exploring a retirement community. They soon develop trusting friendships and decide to rent a villa in Tuscany, choosing adventure over security. If you like character-driven reading, this one will be rewarding. We come to know each of these women and understand how their lives creatively expand through their ventures in wines, gardening, cooking, and art. It's a beautiful story about new friendships later in life.
Lincoln City Libraries has 5 copies – available electronically.