Anstey Harris

Anstey Harris’ The Museum of Forgotten Memories was one of my best books of 2020. It was deeply moving and uplifting fiction, not afraid to challenge perceptions and powered by emotional honesty. So I already knew the author would explore rel="nofollow" target="_top">When I First Held You’s traumatic subject matter with uncommon sensitivity, perceptiveness and nuance. Then, when I learned this fiction drew on her own lived experience, I was confident the grief contained would be worth traversing.

When I First Held You is a journey of emotional, historical and personal discovery for both its characters and its readers, so I am loathe to pre-empt its several ‘reveals’ in this review. Instead, I will discuss the elements I found most striking and impactful about this story’s execution.

With a captivating alternating first-person narrative, Harris cleverly dials up the volume of the female voice and perspective, specifically incorporating that of a younger generation, that which was historically ‘unheard’. But she does so metaphorically… there is no shouting. And, most importantly, she does so without diminishing the male characters. (In fact, they are wonderful also.) Regardless of gender, their power stems from purpose of action, compassion, endurance and resilience. From seeking to better understand their own, and others motivations; and from supporting each other. Continue reading: https://www.bookloverbookreviews.com/2023/02/when-i-first-held-you-anstey-harris...… (mehr)

Grace was an aspiring cellist and it was her whole life. She decided to leave school due to the pressure she was under. She refused to play again. She did so believe me.

In her later years, she opened her own shop where she created violins, violas, and especially cellos. she met David, who was married, and they always met in Paris. David was a big part of her life until she finds out things and things are over. She almost destroys her shop and the cello she was creating for the Cremona (Iraly) competition of violin, viola, cello makers. She makes it and wins the ultimate prize despite the one flaw in the wood. She takes along her associate Nadia who is only 17 and a violin prodigy and Mr. Williams, a customer. They became great friends too.

I've never read a book where music and creating instruments were made, especially by a woman, and I really learned a lot and enjoyed it.

Let me just end this here, David wants her back and I'll let you make the assumption. I was correct and I'm glad she made the right decision.… (mehr)