Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray, talented authors known for their rich historical narratives, delve into the fascinating life of Belle DaCosta Greene, the groundbreaking first librarian of the Morgan Library. They share insights into their co-writing journey and the importance of trust and collaboration. The discussion also highlights how literature can reshape perceptions on identity and race, while touching on their upcoming books that inspire justice and highlight historical women's stories. Expect laughter and inspiration throughout!
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Discovering Belle
Marie Benedict first encountered Belle da Costa Green's story at the Morgan Library during her time as a lawyer.
A docent revealed that a woman, Belle, was essential to the library's creation, sparking Marie's interest.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Three-Page Synopsis
Victoria Christopher Murray's agent sent her a three-page synopsis about a potential co-writing project with Marie Benedict.
Initially uninterested because the synopsis focused on J.P. Morgan, Victoria only became intrigued upon learning about Belle da Costa Green's hidden identity.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Unveiling Belle's Identity
Belle's identity was discovered through research for a J.P. Morgan biography and census records showing name changes and racial classifications.
Richard T. Greener's papers, found in an abandoned Chicago building, further confirmed her heritage.
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The Personal Librarian is based on the life of Belle da Costa Greene, who was hired by J. P. Morgan in 1906 to curate his collection for the newly built Pierpont Morgan Library. Belle, a light-skinned Black woman passing as white, becomes a fixture in New York City society and a powerful figure in the art and book world. She works tirelessly to acquire and curate rare and ancient works, developing a close but complicated relationship with J. P. Morgan. After Morgan's death, she ensures his son Jack keeps the collection intact and eventually turns it into a public library. The novel explores themes of identity, legacy, and the impact of her work on future generations[1][3][4].
Readers, today we're thrilled to share a delightful conversation with Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray, authors of The Personal Librarian.
This conversation originally took place over in our Modern Mrs Darcy Book Club community, where Marie and Victoria joined Anne, our MMD Book Club Community Manager Ginger Horton, our MMD Book Club Co-Host Shannan Malone, and a whole bunch of our Book Club Members for this live event.
Today, you'll hear that conversation too as Marie and Victoria bring us behind the scenes of their co-writing process. This conversation feels especially timely to share with you right now, because Marie’s new book The Queens of Crime is out February 11, and Victoria’s new book Harlem Rhapsody—her first solo-written historical novel—is out February 4.
Whether you’ve read The Personal Librarian or not, we think you’ll really enjoy today’s spoiler-free discussion. Let us know if you have a favorite title by either author to recommend to your fellow readers, or if there's a book you’d love to read in Book Club, by sharing a comment on our show notes page at whatshouldireadnextpodcast.com/463. That's also where you'll find the full list of titles mentioned today.
And if you loved today's conversation with Marie and Victoria, you'll love our library of author talks in the Modern Mrs Darcy Book Club. Along with other events, classes, and programs, we host monthly talks just like this with a wide range of favorite authors. We’d love to have you join us—find out more at modernmrsdarcy.com/club.
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