A biographical novel about the life of artist Georgia O'Keeffe, from her childhood when she decided to be an artist to her eventual rise to fame in the American Southwest.
The life of artist Georgia O'Keeffe is revealed in this biographical novel -- from her childhood when she decided to be an artist, through her art education in Chicago and New York, to her eventual rise to fame in the American Southwest.
At the age of 12, Georgia O'Keeffe announced that she wanted to be an artist. With the support of her family, O'Keeffe attended boarding schools with strong art programs, and after graduating, went to live with an aunt and uncle in Chicago to attend the city's highly regarded Art Institute. Illness forced O'Keeffe to leave Chicago, but once she'd recovered, her family scraped together funds to send her to New York to study at the Art Students League. When her family fell on hard times, she left without the degree she needed. Discouraged, but unwilling to give up her dream, O'Keeffe found a different path. She became an art teacher in schools in Texas and South Carolina, honing her own craft as she taught her students. O'Keeffe never gave up her dream, no matter what obstacles she encountered--she knew she was meant to be an artist.
“Meyer's detailed fictionalized biography…is an interesting glimpse into early- and mid-20th-century America and the life of a complex woman. Meyer has researched O'Keeffe's life intensively and…the narrator's voice rings true…budding romantics and artists should appreciate this work. A useful selection for art history and women's studies units.” –
School Library Journal“This first-person historical fiction title is told in Georgia O’Keefe’s own voice. O’Keefe was ahead of her time, knowing from a young age that she wanted to be an artist, keep the surname O’Keefe, and adorn herself in black. This book is not the typical young adult or crowd-pleaser fiction. The novel will especially appeal to those interested in art, artists, or strong women who ‘break the mold.’ Brief mention of O’Keefe’s contemporaries in the art and photography world add helpful historical information. The author’s notes and Stieglitz’s photos of a young and mature woman help provide context. The novel is readable, informative, and may also appeal to art teachers as a reading choice in the content area.” -
School Library Connection“Lovers of historical fiction will…enjoy this tale.” -
VOYA“Georgia O’Keeffe’s life and artistic development are chronicled in Meyer’s latest work of historical fiction...Georgia comes to life in Meyer’s portrait (and)… the pace moves along at a satisfying rate. Meyer’s portrait of the bold, groundbreaking painter should inspire young artists and historical fiction lovers alike.” -
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