Helpful Score: 8
I too thought this was a fast historical fiction read, but I also found it to be a bit sneaky. I did not guess at the surprise that awaits, but did guess at another part of the ending. It's also interesting to read about the life of a family of weavers... you just see these tapestries in museums now, but to read a possible way that they lived and the daily struggles they endured to complete these works... it gives a whole new layer to the works of art to me.
Helpful Score: 7
an interesting novel of history and imagination involving the family jean le viste of paris 1490 and a famous art world's masterpiece, the lady and the unicorn tapestry. tracy chevalier weaves a good novel of the lives, loves and work of the residents of 1430 paris. as well as the history of the creation of work of art tapestry.
Helpful Score: 7
I didn't like it as much as Girl with a Pearl Earring, but most people have preferred it the other way around. It was interesting to me to learn about how the weaving was done, but wasn't as attached to the main characters, maybe from the shifting POV. It was interesting though, how the characters weren't all 'good' and wholesome, kept it interesting to see them (and their flaws) develop over time. I found it a pretty quick read.
Helpful Score: 5
I really enjoyed this novel. I read it after Girl with A Pearl Earring and I liked both novels. I found this one to be somewhat lighthearted and did explain some of the technicalities of taspersty weaving. I thought the characters to be well developed and interesting. If you enjoy historical fiction this one is worth reading.
Helpful Score: 4
I love Tracy Chevalier and this is a good one. Fast paced, almost two stories in one. Based on a famous tapestry, this story takes you through Europe with a philandering artisan. Touching story of the life of a blind weaver. Full of descriptions that bring the book to life.
