This book has so many of my favorites - books, libraries, history, famous people. I loved learning about Belle and her interactions with JP Morgan. The rest of her story, her family, and her achievements was fascinating. 

Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray collaborated brilliantly in this book. I had the privilege of watching an interview with them as well. They are delightful, genuine, and gracious. Their voices on the page and in the interview brought Belle’s story to life in beautiful ways. Great writing. Every day I looked forward to escaping into Belle’s world to see what she would do next. 

My favorite part of this book was seeing Belle’s confidence in her skills and her passions grow. Her wardrobe and excursions and discussions of art were fabulous. Her interactions with the dealers were fun. Her respect for her role was inspiring. Her relationships with her family (especially her Dad) brought me to tears a few times. This is a heartbreaking and hopeful story and I’m so glad I read it.