The Barnes and Noble book of the year by Thomas Schessler has had mixed reviews, most of which are negative. I find that a sad commentary on today’s readers. I found this book to be an excellent source of learning with a sweet story propping up the lessons.
Schessler provides several essential elements which underscore the artistic adventures of Dade’ and Mona and allow insight into the challenges facing a little girl.
Preserving Memory. Upon observing the trivial objects in the ten-year-old’s room, the grandfather embarks on a quest to provide her with a mental repository of art, imagination and wonder to draw upon should her eyesight fail permanently.
Life Lessons. Each selection of art is explained not only in terms of the painter/sculptor but includes emotional or philosophical or historical context. Dade’ provides these lessons to assist Mona in navigating the harsh realities of life; lessons that her parents are not equipped to share with her.
Emotional Growth. The grandfather’s treatise regarding each piece of art is, in fact, a form of therapy. Giving Mona perspective on the world and drawing out her own inner strength helps Mona overcome the terror of darkness and blindness.
Focus. Mona is charged by her grandfather to look at the art each week – to really see what is in the painting/sculpture. At first, she gets bored after only a few minutes. Yet as time goes on, she becomes enthralled with the elements in each piece. Learning to focus her attention on the works of art she becomes curious about the meaning of each piece. She wonders about the artist and why s/he expressed her/himself in this way. She learns to take time to observe rather than to rush through an assignment, thus enjoying and better understanding what is before her.
Create a Structure. Mona knows that every Wednesday after school she will spend time with her Dade’ viewing and discussing a work of art. She looks forward to the visits, even though they may at times be tedious. Having structure helps us navigate our days. And enjoying one day per week, knowing what our task will be gives us a sense of purpose.
While many of the reviews find the book boring as each chapter is basically a review of works of art (see https://monaseyesgallery.com ) ,I find it intellectually rich while easily accessible. Critics focus on the “unrealistic” conversations and understanding of a ten-year-old. Have they met many ten-year-olds these days? Many are quite capable of understanding concepts that many of us may not have so many years ago. Young people are exposed to all manners of knowledge and information. Teaching young people to discern what is real would be a tribute to any grandparent.
While this book is a novel, I would describe it more as a lesson in art history with a side story about a young lady who is navigating the sometimes-harsh realities of life. Schessler has provided us with wonderful, sometimes intense information in an easy-to-read format. I, for one, appreciate the opportunity to revisit masters’ works of art in a delightful and rich compilation. Each short chapter can be savored. If you are looking for a light, summer read, this may not be your best choice. Yet if you want to learn about art from a new and engaging perspective, give Mona’s Eyes a look.
Silver Sage Sisters 