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A review by thenovelbookshelf
The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict, Victoria Christopher Murray
challenging
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
A beautiful fictional account of Belle da Costa Greene, J.P Morgan's personal librarian, based on real events and people.
Belle, born Belle Marion Greener, of African American heritage was forced to live a lie by her mother because of their light skinned appearance. While in this novel, Belle is only occasionally conflicted, I'm sure her life, and that of her family's, was harder than what was written.
The novel also only briefly touches on other parts of her life, education, friendships, relationships, extended family of hers and that of JP Morgan's. There are some resources mentioned in the author's notes that would be good to get more background into Belle's life.
This is a compelling, beautifully written book that touches on topics of racism, feminism, love, passion, and personal identity.
Belle, born Belle Marion Greener, of African American heritage was forced to live a lie by her mother because of their light skinned appearance. While in this novel, Belle is only occasionally conflicted, I'm sure her life, and that of her family's, was harder than what was written.
The novel also only briefly touches on other parts of her life, education, friendships, relationships, extended family of hers and that of JP Morgan's. There are some resources mentioned in the author's notes that would be good to get more background into Belle's life.
This is a compelling, beautifully written book that touches on topics of racism, feminism, love, passion, and personal identity.
Content Warnings
Minor: Child death, Death, Racism, Sexism, Abortion, Death of parent, and Alcohol