Girl with a Pearl Earring-Book Review

November 15, 2009 • written by Allison Dahedl

        The novel, Girl with a Pearl Earring, by Tracy Chevalier, is solely based off the famous portrait created by artist Johannes Vermeer of the same name. In real life there is little known about this fascinating work of art other than the name of the artist and the year it was produced. The historical novel makes up a fictitious story to fill in the blanks regarding the missing information. The main character, Griet, begins the story as a maid in Johannes Vermeer’s house. He is a seemingly rich painter but also a very mysterious man. She is recruited to clean up his studio but not permitted to move any of his belongings. Throughout the story Griet begins to see past the strangeness of her employer and finds the deeper meaning of who he really is. Griet is forever wrought with troubles that she must find her own answers to. From start to finish this book keeps you wishing for more. It is a real page turner that includes many intriguing literary aspects. The novel’s beautifully orchestrated use of elements of suspense, tragedy, and love, ultimately bring out the magic behind the very real painting. I would give Girl with a Pearl Earring a five out of five rating for its interesting subject matter and good mechanics.

Comments

Feel free to leave a comment...
and oh, if you want a pic to show with your comment, go get a gravatar!