there were times i hated this book, and times i loved this book, and then times i hated it again. and that is why i'm giving it 5 stars.

i have a very soft spot in my heart for books that invoke in me extreme emotions. this book did that. enter -- soft spot.

but seriously. i think that Harriet "Harry" Burden was fantastic. the chapters narrated by her were just the pinnacle of perfection. this novel is a moving and interesting portrait of an extremely unique and obscure artist. the rest of the cast of characters narrating the other portions, some boring and annoying, some riveting and empathetic, made this a well rounded story.

it's definitely not the type of novel for everyone, but it was for me.