Mark H. (recyclist1954) - , reviewed on 11/5/2010 + 33 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 1

Working within the context of known art history, Chevalier creates the story behind one of Vermeer's most famous paintings - Girl with a Pearl Earring. But this more of a coming-of-age story, of a young girl forced to work to save her family and who is thrust into a world in which she has little or no control and virtually no say in what becomes of her. I suppose that, too, is true of this 17th century time period. The girl -- Griet -- is pulled into an emotional vortex not of her own making, but from which she must navigate as best as she can. In the end, I felt sorry for her and the way she seemed to be trapped by time, society and circumstance in roles and situations she clearly did not want, did not claim and would rather have avoided, while at the same time those same things kept her from what her heart really sought. In the end I wonder what would have happened if she had reached out for what she truly wanted.

Back to all reviews by this member
Back to all reviews of this book
Back to Book Reviews
Back to Book Details