I just finished reading The Personal Librarian co-authored by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray.
This book is based on the life of Belle da Costa Greene, the personal librarian and art curator for millionaire J.P. Morgan. It takes place beginning around 1905.
What is fascinating about this story is that Belle is an African American who is “passing” as white in a world full of strict restrictions as far as the races are concerned.
The decision to live as white was made by her mother, and was made at the cost of losing her husband who was an early civil rights advocate.
Although, Belle goes on to be extremely successful and regarded, this is achieved through great sacrifice on her own part. Her fear of being discovered lives with her daily, and results in the decision not to marry in fear that a child of her own might reveal her secret.
Belle’s intelligence, instincts and wit make her a fascinating individual, and her relationship with J.P. Morgan was truly one of a kind.
I highly recommend this book for two reasons. One because it is the story of an amazing woman, and two because it reflects a time in our history not to be forgotten.
The Morgan Library and Museum is open to the public in New York City.
No comments:
Post a Comment