Reviews

Belle Greene by Alexandra Lapierre

Only show reviews with written explanations

taralmassie's review against another edition

Go to review page

informative medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? N/A
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.25

nylla_'s review

Go to review page

challenging informative medium-paced

4.0

applekern's review against another edition

Go to review page

4.0

A really fascinating read, simply because of its historic backdrop. One cannot imagine the life Belle has lived, and the many amazing memories she must have made on this journey - and also the amount of pain she endured. This book tells the story of a „normal“ that is so different than what we are used to today, that it is occasionally so surreal - I had to remind myself that this was once reality and is not a work of fiction. I ended up reading more about JP Morgan and what he actually did, which was a nice history lesson as a side effect.

kateratesbooks's review

Go to review page

emotional reflective slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

[Received this book courtesy of Europa Editions. All opinions, however, are my unbiased own.]

"The success of a single Black individual lifts up all others and proves that all men are equal... If you weren't a coward, you would own your successes- not as a white woman, but as a Black one!" (415)

If only it were so simple.

In her novel "Belle Greene," Alexandra Lapierre explores the heart-wrenching sacrifices and unavoidable costs of perceived freedom, all of which being rooted in power - power ascertained through wealth, through social connections, through appearance and race.

While the book charts the real life of Belle Greene in 20th C. America, the discussion on hidden roots and race politics still bear relevance (and keen interest) today. Further to the point, as Lapierre indicates at the end of her account, Morgan's library will put Greene's letters on public display next year. So if you pick this book up now, you'll be well-read and ready for 2024.