Selects: Seven - No, Wait, Five - Mysteries of the Art World

This biography provides an in-depth look at Vincent van Gogh's life, from his early struggles to his move to Provence, where he created some of the most iconic works in Western art. The authors delve into his intense relationship with his brother Theo, his tumultuous romantic life, and his battles with depression and mental illness. Drawing from extensive research and previously untapped materials, Naifeh and Smith offer a vivid and sympathetic portrayal of this artistic genius.

Tracy Chevalier's "Girl with a Pearl Earring" is a historical fiction novel set in 17th-century Delft, Netherlands. It tells the fictionalized story of Griet, a young maid working in the household of the painter Johannes Vermeer. The novel explores the relationship between Griet and Vermeer, focusing on her role as his model and the impact of their interactions on her life. Chevalier's narrative weaves together historical details with imagined events, creating a compelling portrait of a young woman's life in a time of artistic and social change. The novel's success led to a film adaptation starring Scarlett Johansson and Colin Firth.