I expected a lot from 'Paint it Black' based on Finch's first novel, 'White Oleander', but I was disappointed with not only the content but also the style. While White Oleander was rich in themes and artistic elements, I found Paint it Black very shallow in comparison. However, as far as alluding to detailed images, and promoting participation on the readers behalf in creating those images, this book is successful.

I have gone back and read White Oleander at least once a year since I first read it six years ago. Paint it Black was a struggle to get through. I finished it, but that was more out of respect to the book than my own desire to finish it. It has glimmers of what made White Oleander so amazing, but it doesn't capture the same soul.

I am still not sure how I felt about this book. It is definitely not as good as White Oleander however, I did feel compelled to read the whole book to see how Josie turns out in the end. It is a dark read as the characters are grappling with a suicide of a loved one.

i felt this book was good with the same descrtive elements of "white oleander" and similar themes of abandonment and self-preservation. although i did ultimately enjoy "white oleander" more, i did like her version of the early 80s punk scene, and her sensual writing style.

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I read three chapters and I gave up. Despite all the drama of the punk scene, I was bored. I definitely liked 'White Oleander' by the author better.

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