The Van Gogh Brothers
by Deborah Heiligman
Flap Copy Description:
The deep and enduring friendship between Vincent and Theo Van Gogh shaped both brothers' lives. Confidant, champion, sympathizer, friend, Theo supported Vincent as he struggled to find his path in life. They shared everything, swapping stories of lovers and friends, successes and disappointments, dreams and ambitions. Meticulously researched, drawing on the 658 letters Vincent wrote to Theo during his lifetime, Deborah Heiligman weaves a tale of two lives intertwined and the love of the Van Gogh brothers.
My Thoughts:
It's extremely difficult to give an objective review for this book since I love it so much! I'll just say that it would speak to readers of so many backgrounds. Here is a list of subjects dealt with within this award-winning tale:
1- Art, obviously!
2- Mental illness
3- Spiritual journey
4- Battling health issues
5- Family bonds
6- The importance of perseverance
7- Living life with a passion
However, to list those topics is to totally miss the beauty of this book. Deborah Heiligman painstakingly read hundreds of letters written by Vincent Van Gogh during her research. The depth of her character development and dialogue takes the reader back in time - to the very lives of Vincent and Theo. I was in tears. I'll never view a painting by Van Gogh in the same way - and I've seen a few originals. (I hope to see several more during my lifetime.) I highly recommend Vincent and Theo to readers who have a connection to any of the subjects listed above. (Isn't that everyone?) This extraordinary book is a must-read!
Click here to learn about the author, Deborah Heiligman.
