The Secret Life of Sunflowers - Book Review

 

The Secret Life of Sunflowers

Marta Molnar

2.5 stars (but keep reading my review for what I learned)


Told through the voices of Johanna van Gogh (1887) and Emsley Wilson (current), this book held promise but failed to deliver.

I was fascinated by the story of Johanna, who is largely unknown for her role in bringing her brother-in-law’s artistry to the public. She is the reason that I kept reading. The story line for Emsley, her character, and the challenge she faced was weak in holding my interest.

I typically would not review a book here that I wouldn't recommend to a friend. So let me tell you why you are now reading this. van Gogh was certainly a tormented soul (as many true artist types were/are), but the way his fame and appreciation of his life became prominent was unknown to me.

What this book offered me was the curiousity to look a little deeper into his fame and how easily the world would have been deprived of his talent.

I found the author’s experience in adventure/romance writing (Dana Marton), kept pushing its way to the forefront and did nothing for my enjoyment. The dialogue was elementary and often irritating. If you are looking for historical info focusing on Johanna and the van Gogh story, I would look elsewhere.

History: Offered some important info to delve into from another source. I understand that there are docuseries offered on youtube
Language: I counted 10 uses of the word ‘gifted’ through the book. Not my favourite word anyway. Contemporary expressions such as ‘going forward’ and ‘recalibrate’ were lazy, ugh!
Writing: I will not be reading more of this author's words

I expected more history and less fluff, this was not the book or style of writing for me. But I did research more on van Gogh. And I have told his life story to other reader friends.

Now on to Someday I'll Find You, CC Humphreys.


 

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