emilybookin's review
4.0
This book was simply a joy to read. I went in knowing absolutely nothing about it and that served me well, having no expectations, I just experienced it for what it was. Narrative-wise it’s nothing groundbreaking, but it unfolds like a fable and all good fables are effective and memorable in their simplicity. Conceptually, on the other hand, it’s far more unique. The way Kris Waldherr conceptualised both the story and the history was extremely clever. The way she then executed it with gorgeous illustrations, letters and cards, it made me feel like I was holding something truly special in my hands. The whole design of this book allowed me to not just read the book but experience it, and also allowed for the beautiful setting of 16th century Venice to be brought into even sharper focus.
goodbookin's review
4.0
This book was simply a joy to read. I went in knowing absolutely nothing about it and that served me well, having no expectations, I just experienced it for what it was. Narrative-wise it’s nothing groundbreaking, but it unfolds like a fable and all good fables are effective and memorable in their simplicity. Conceptually, on the other hand, it’s far more unique. The way Kris Waldherr conceptualised both the story and the history was extremely clever. The way she then executed it with gorgeous illustrations, letters and cards, it made me feel like I was holding something truly special in my hands. The whole design of this book allowed me to not just read the book but experience it, and also allowed for the beautiful setting of 16th century Venice to be brought into even sharper focus.
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