Release Date ~ January 5, 2016
Abrams Books ~ HarperCollins Canada
ISBN13: 9781419710346
Goodreads Synopsis:
Charlotte, Branwell, Emily, and Anne. The Brontë siblings
have always been close. After all, nothing can unite four siblings quite like
life in an isolated parsonage on the moors. Their vivid imaginations lend them
escape from their strict, spartan upbringing, actually transporting them into
their created worlds: the glittering Verdopolis and the romantic and melancholy
Gondal. But at what price? As Branwell begins to slip into madness and the
sisters feel their real lives slipping away, they must weigh the cost of their
powerful imaginations, even as their characters—the brooding Rogue and dashing
Duke of Zamorna—refuse to let them go.
This richly conceived, haunting fantasy draws on the early
writings of this most famous literary family to explore the deathless bonds between
sisters and brothers, between writers and their creations.
Despite my longstanding love of literature, I've never read any books by any of the Brontes. So I came into readings Worlds of Ink and Shadow with very few ideas or expectations for the story.
I didn't realize how much of the story is based on actual events in the Bronte family's life until I had finished the book. For that reason, I think Worlds of Ink and Shadow is likely more appreciated by avid fans of the Brontes, with plenty of appeal for those who are new to their stories (both real and fictional) as I am.
- The power of a rich imagination:
The premise of the story is a fascinating one, and an idea which I'm sure many readers and writers have wished was true; how would you like to be able to enter into the world you've read about or created? What would you sacrifice in order to make that dream come true? - Family dynamics:
The relationship between the Bronte siblings was also interesting to read, as there's jealousy, rivalry, but also a strong sense of loyalty. I liked this flawed, realistic view of the Bronte siblings and the trials they encounter, and I particularly liked how Lena Coakley tied this into the historical facts we know about the Bronte family.
But at the end of the book, I was left with a greater appreciation for the Bronte family and their stories (both real and imagined). I recommend Worlds of Ink and Shadows for readers who, like me, are new to the Bronte family and are looking for an enjoyable introduction.
1 comment:
I love historical fiction and am such a huge fan of the Bronte sisters... this book is very high on my to read list for this year! I'm glad that you enjoyed it despite not knowing much about the Bronte family. Your review has me even more excited for this book!!!
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