Customer Reviews

Where Books Fall Open

5 star:		(5)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This anthology of prose and poetry starts out strong .... prose selections from Italo Calvino, Lynne Schwartz, Roy Blount and Anne Fadiman are wonderful, affectionate tributes to reading, Also, I think this is the first time Steve Martin and Jane Austen have appeared together, and both are fine. There are also a LOT of poems here, and some are better than others, as with all poetry. This is a mix of contemporary (Fran Lebowitz, Billy Collins) and classic (Cervantes, Elizabeth Barret Browning) selections that explore reading, writing and books. Artwork by Bascove is of a style consistent with the cover -- bold, colorful and primitive, sixteen paintings that also feature books. A percentage of the profits go to First Book, a literacy program for children.

I'd say the quality of the selections is uneven, but you will undoubtedly find something, and probably many things, that will please you. This is a small volume that can be read quickly, or savored, and as an object it is very pleasing. This would make a fine gift for a bibliophile you know.

This is a perfect gift--but first give it to yourself. Bascove takes the same care selecting and arranging prose and poetry as she does composing her lush oils, which tell their own stories. I savored the book cover-to-cover, at one point stumbling up the subway steps because I had my nose buried in it. This is a singularly beautiful book in every way.

The perfect book. If you need an uplifting, get-back-to-normal, let's go to where great literature and poetry takes us, just thumb through some of these pages. Oh, and the paintings...simply luscious. A real treasure of a book.

Wow! An amazing, joyous, intelligent, witty book composed of
all great writers. The lifelike and breathtaking paintings
of Bascove are worth buying the book alone. This is a
unique and rare gift. This book takes you away from
the awful events of 9/11. Thank you for your treasure.

This is a witty,fun must have book! The book just flys by
with its elegant charm,humour, and fun filled stories.
Bascove's art work is a treasure. This would delight
readers of all ages. This is a special and gifted book
that anyone would be proud to have in their collection.
It is refreshing from beginning to end. Wish this book ends
up with people who have a zest for passion and an apreciation for art. A+++++

Thank you, thank you. What a fabulous find. From Calvino to Lebowitz. These are some of my favorite things. Delightful, thoughtful and bountiful. The paintings are added treasures. I am passionately grateful.