Book: The Personal Librarian
Authors: Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
Rating: 5/5, highly recommend!
“Changing your name is easy. Changing your soul is impossible.”
- Marie Benedict & Victoria Christopher Murray
A historical fiction novel is the life story of the extraordinary Belle de Costa Greene, the personal librarian to J.P. Morgan during the early twentieth century. Belle, a mixed woman from a prominent African American family from Washington, DC attempting to “pass” as white brings a voice to feminism, social justice, and power dynamics in a white male-dominated society.
Through Belle’s journey, she helps J.P. Morgan curate a world-renowned collection of high-end manuscripts and art. As her career flourishes and she enjoys her successful career, Belle continuously grapples with the decision to hide her Black heritage, which comes with danger and sacrifice. The words on the page capture Belle’s passion and heartache as she carves her path.
Belle and J.P. Morgan built one of the finest personal libraries and art collections in the world, which is available to the public located in New York City.
Morgan Library and Museum
Address: 225 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10016
Website: https://www.themorgan.org/
Price: $28.50
After reading The Personal Librarian, I wanted to revisit the Moran Library and Museum with a new perspective.
As you walk in, the grand, old-world elegance immediately transports you to turn-of-the-century New York.
The library is majestic with soaring ceilings and an elegant intimate space that brings a sort of warmth. It features 30-foot ceilings, three tiers of bronze and walnut bookcases, stained glass, a huge marble fireplace, and grand tapestries. Mr. Morgan’s study is lined with red silk damask walls and an antique wooden ceiling. Don’t forget to go outside to the tranquil private garden.
*As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Related Posts
