Getting to Know Vincent and Theo : The Van Gogh Brothers
A Fresh Library Pick.
As usual, we went to the Children's Library last Friday, our designated library day. The kids settled on our usual spot, and checked out some books they could read and borrow. The library staff approached them after some time and invited them to participate in the Maker's Space activity.
On the other hand, I wandered through the aisles and checked the parent's references section, poetry, and non-fiction area until I saw this book with a simple, yet captivating cover— Vincent and Theo: The Van Gogh Brothers by Deborah Heiligman.
We've covered Van Gogh's art in our homeschool and we've always been intrigued by Vincent and his paintings, but have not deeply delved into the personal side of his story.
Page-Turning.
I returned to our seat and started reading. As the title suggests, it talks about Vincent and his brother, Theo Van Gogh.
The author’s writing is fluid and engaging. It feels like you’re sitting down for coffee with a friend who’s telling you a fascinating story, rather than reading a biography.
The author expertly laid the story through her meticulous research and analysis of 658 letters that Vincent wrote to his brother, Theo.
The book doesn’t just focus on Vincent as the artist we all know; it paints a fuller picture of his life, including his childhood with Theo by his side.
The book also includes pages that showcase some of Vincent’s artwork, which are beautifully integrated into the narrative.
Oh well, like this post has been sitting in my drafts for five days already, I can only afford to read a few minutes a day. But it's always a captivating time, like I'm stepping into another world where letters become lifelines and every brushstroke has a story to tell.
Each time I pick it up, I I know I’m unraveling a bit more of Vincent and his connection with Theo. It’s a slow read, but a meaningful one.
All photos are taken from pages of the book, Vincent and Theo: The Van Gogh Brothers.
Oh how beautiful to have the chance to read about this story of the brothers, as a big fan I knew about their endearing brotherhood. I know there is a book about the letters they exchanged, and I would love to read about it, I understand that their time and their emotions were deep, and surely thanks to that and their connection, Vincent's creations are still a reason to be moved today. Thank you for sharing this book, I send you a big greeting!
Hi @littlesorceress! Thanks for the comment. It really is wonderful to know about Vincent on a different level, especially about his special connection with his brother.
Vincent's story is moving and remains mystery to me. He was one of those misunderstood genius and it's sad that he passed before he got to see his works rose to fame. It's nice that you expose your children to his works. Also, I wanna read this book and see if I can find it 😊 I missed a couple of Van Gogh's exhibition around here and one in Bangkok last year, kinda hope they'll organize something similar soon.
There's always the dark side that is attached to his name, but this book at least gives more clarity and concept about what he went through of course with his brother next to him.
This books looks really wonderful. The kind of book one reads on a rainy day with a cup of hot chocolate by the fire.
Exactly!
Hello Arlin! thank you for sharing this work in our community and we'd love to see you more around as well.
Sounds like a fascinating book, especially with that personal connection between the brothers. Vincent's letters to Theo should offer a unique perspective on his life and art.... Very nice input, thanks for sharing!