Girl with a Pearl Earring
Author: Chevalier, Tracy
Publisher: Plume
Price (paperback): $14
ISBN#: 0-452-28215-2 (pbk.)
Girl with a Pearl Earring is an engrossing work of historical fiction based on the mysterious painting by the famous artist, Vermeer. The story takes place in Holland in the year 1664 and is told through the eyes of a reserved and inquisitive young woman named Griet. When she is hired by Vermeer as a maid she is quickly drawn into a world of color and quiet seduction. Griet, who seems to have a natural artistic eye, finds herself fascinated by Vermeer’s talent and passion. Although married, Vermeer is attracted to Griet's innocent curiosity. As she becomes the inspiration for one of Vermeer’s paintings trouble erupts in the household and Griet is torn between her duty to her family and her adoration of Vermeer. This book superbly details 1600’s Holland and readers are lured in by engaging and mysterious characters and the subtle, yet intense romance between Griet and Vermeer. Griet’s strength and intensity throughout the novel is enticing. Many readers will lavish in the author’s attention to detail and delicately complex storytelling which are much like Vermeer’s own paintings. While this book’s appeal will most likely reach many different types of readers, it will be particularly intriguing for those readers interested in the peculiar and beautiful artwork of Vermeer.
