"Madame Picasso" is a beautifully rendered story about the private life of Picasso, and his tragic relationship with Eva, the heroine of this poignant novel. Eva is a young, aspiring soul who leaves home and struggles to make her way in the world. She strives to make a name for herself without help, which sets her apart from the other young women in her circle. She managed to bring out the protective instincts of this reader, and watching her journey was like watching a friend or a younger sister, hoping that they will thrive and hurting for them when they go through heartbreak and disappointments on the journey.
Reminiscent of "Phantom of the Opera" and "Moulin Rouge", the story is set in France, and takes us back to the turn of the century when the world was a different place, but people lived and struggled with many of the same issues we face today. Anne Girard's language and writing skills evoke the past and make it live as though it were yesterday. Her words provide snapshots of another time, and her characters jump off the page. They make you worry about what will happen to these people. She makes them as real as you and I, which is the mark of a great writer. She digs beneath the surface of the Picasso the modern world knows, and brings to life a complex, tormented soul whose love for Eva inspired his art and made him a better man. When I was finished reading this wonderful book, I was motivated to read up on Picasso, and discover the man behind the famous abstract art. I was surprised to find that he didn't simply pioneer abstract art, he started off in the traditional style, got bored, and wanted to find a way to translate his vision into a way that would impact the art world. I find myself fascinated by his mother and child series that predated the abstract movement:
I highly recommend "Madame Picasso" to anyone who enjoys art, the turn of the century, and losing oneself in a great read. This one is going on my "keeper" shelf!
