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CYBILS Winner Review: Vincent and Theo: the Van Gogh Brothers by Deborah Heiligman

Title: Vincent and Theo: the Van Gogh Brothers
Author: Deborah Heiligman
Year Published: 2017


Genre: YA Non-fiction
Pages: 465
Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Location (my 2018 Google Reading map): Netherlands

FTC Disclosure: I borrowed this book from my school library


Summary (from the inside flap of the book): The deep and enduring friendship between Vincent and Theo Van Gogh shaped both brothers' lives. Confidant, champion, sympathizer, friend—Theo supported Vincent as he struggled to find his path in life. They shared everything, swapping stories of lovers and friends, successes and disappointments, dreams and ambitions. Meticulously researched, drawing on the 658 letters Vincent wrote to Theo during his lifetime, Deborah Heiligman weaves a tale of two lives intertwined and the extraordinary love of the Van Gogh brothers.

Review: I had heard nothing but good things about this book, even before I knew it was a CYBILS finalist. But I'll confess that it's the last book I read for these awards and it's the longest so there were parts that I regrettably skimmed.

It is a beautifully written book with an interesting story. I kept reminding myself this Vincent is THE Vincent Van Gogh! Unfortunately, I don't see teenagers picking up a book that is this long about Vincent Van Gogh's life and relationship with his brother even though they should! :-)

I think, even though it's a YA book, it will appeal more to adults. I also see it making a wonderful movie or mini-series.

Challenges for which this counts:

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