The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict (English) Paperback Book

Description: The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict, Victoria Christopher Murray In her twenties, Belle da Costa Greene is hired by J. P. Morgan to curate a collection of rare manuscripts, books, and artwork for his newly built Pierpont Morgan Library. But Belle has a secret, she is the daughter of Richard Greener, the first Black graduate of Harvard and a well-known advocate for equality. The Personal Librarian tells the story of an extraordinary woman, famous for her intellect, style, and wit, and shares the lengths she must go to - for the protection of her family and her legacy - to preserve her carefully crafted white identity in the racist world in which she lives.In her twenties, Belle da Costa Greene is hired by J. P. Morgan to curate a collection for his newly built Pierpont Morgan Library. Belle becomes a fixture on the New York society scene and one of the most powerful people in the art and book world as she helps build a world-class collection. But Belle has a secret, one she must protect at all costs. She is the daughter of Richard Greener, the first Black graduate of Harvard and a well-known advocate for equality. Belles complexion isnt dark because of her alleged Portuguese heritage that lets her pass as white - her complexion is dark because she is African American. FORMAT Paperback LANGUAGE English CONDITION Brand New Author Biography Marie Benedict is a lawyer with more than ten years experience as a litigator. A graduate of Boston College and the Boston University School of Law, she is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of The Only Woman in the Room, The Mystery of Mrs. Christie, Carnegies Maid, The Other Einstein, and Lady Clementine. All have been translated into multiple languages. She lives in Pittsburgh with her family. Victoria Christopher Murray is an acclaimed author with more than one million books in print. She has written more than twenty novels, including Stand Your Ground, an NAACP Image Award Winner for Outstanding Fiction and a Library Journal Best Book of the Year. She holds an MBA from the NYU Stern School of Business. Review "Historical fiction at its best…The Personal Librarian spins a complex tale of deceit and allegiance as told through books."—Good Morning America"Benedict, who is white, and Murray, who is African American, do a good job of depicting the tightrope Belle walked, and her internal conflict from both sides—wanting to adhere to her mothers wishes and move through the world as white even as she longed to show her father she was proud of her race. Like Belle and her employer, Benedict and Murray had almost instant chemistry, and as a result, the books narrative is seamless...I became hooked."—NPR"A fascinating story!"—Real Simple"An extraordinary tale that is both brilliant historical fiction and an important and timely commentary on racism. By holding up an unflinching mirror and illuminating this little-known chapter in American history, these two gifted authors have penned a work that is a must-read."—Pam Jenoff, New York Times bestselling author of The Woman with the Blue Star "A marvel of a story. This unflinching look at one womans meteoric rise through New Yorks high society is enthralling, lyrical, and rife with danger. Belles painful secret and her inspiring courage will capture – and break – your heart. Serious kudos to Benedict and Murray for bringing this true story to life."—Fiona Davis, New York Times bestselling author of The Lions of Fifth Avenue "The Personal Librarian illuminates the extraordinary life of an exceptional, intelligent woman who had to make the impossible choice to live as an imposter or sacrifice everything shed achieved and deserved. That Belle denied her true identity in order to protect herself and her family from racial persecution speaks not only to her times but also to ours, a hundred years later. All that glitters is not gold. This is a compelling and important story." —Therese Anne Fowler, New York Times bestselling author of A Good Neighborhood"As richly depicted as the lush world of art and literature Belle da Costa Greene presided over…an immersive, sweeping delight as well as an intimate, moving, and powerful portrait of Belles personal and professional life. An unforgettable, captivating read!"—Chanel Cleeton, New York Times bestselling author of The Most Beautiful Girl in Cuba"Meticulously researched, heartbreaking, and inspiring…a fascinating look at a very public figure fighting a deep private battle, whose story still resonates with surprising power and immediacy today."—Kristin Harmel, New York Times bestselling author of The Book of Lost Names "An untold story that is simply amazing. Its timely and impactful."—Brenda Jackson, New York Times bestselling author of Follow Your Heart "A stunning and timely novel about a woman who, in forging a path for herself, had to battle constantly against the limitations society tried to place upon her due to her gender – and who also had to hide her true identity from a racist world...both a triumph and a fitting tribute to Belles courage, her fierce desire to protect her family and her personal struggle to be both the woman she was, and the woman she was not allowed to be."—Natasha Lester, New York Times bestselling author of The Paris Secret "An intimate and extraordinary conversation with the past. As Belle da Costa Greene achieves her dreams by forsaking an identity, we wonder if we would or could do the same to irrevocably alter the literary world and our family. A novel abundant with culture, art, literature, and romance—the beauty and recklessness of love are revealed with astonishing clarity."—Patti Callahan, New York Times bestselling author of Surviving Savannah "From the moment I picked up The Personal Librarian, I was in awe of Belle da Costa Greene. My heart went out as she navigated the life she lived and the one she hid…. Belles story couldnt come at a more fitting time as our country faces a united path forward."—ReShonda Tate Billingsley, National bestselling author of A Little Bit of Karma "Upon starting this novel, be prepared to do nothing else until youve reached its poignant, reflective end. Through brilliant pacing and with painstaking care, Benedict and Murray paint a vibrant portrait of a woman whose accomplishments, relationships, and secretive history were as complex and intriguing as the collections she helped curate…a timely, provocative read perfect for book clubs. I loved it."—Kristina McMorris, New York Times bestselling author of Sold on a Monday "From the opulent gilded age ballrooms of New York, to the fiercely competitive auction houses of Europe, The Personal Librarian is a poignant story of race, class and one womans struggle to live authentically."—Renée Rosen, Author of The Social Graces"The story of Belle da Costa Greene is timely, universal, and enduring. Through it, Benedict and Murray raise questions that are as important now as they were a hundred years ago—questions to which a true historical answer may be less important than the fact that we are continuing to face them in contemporary ways."—Pittsburgh Post-Gazette"This fictional account of Greenes life feels authentic; the authors bring to life not only Belle but all those around her. An excellent piece of historical fiction that many readers will find hard to put down."—Library Journal (starred review)"A powerful take on the accomplishments of J.P. Morgans librarian…. Benedict and Murray do a great job capturing Belles passion and tenacity as she carves a place for herself in a racist male-dominated society. This does fine justice to a remarkable historical figure."—Publishers Weekly"Every element of this blockbuster historical novel is compelling and revelatory, beginning with the bedazzling protagonist based with awestruck care on Belle da Costa Greene… a novel of enthralling drama, humor, sensuality, and insight. … [a] resounding tale of a brilliant and resilient woman defying sexism, classism, and racism during the brutality of Jim Crow. Benedict and Murray do splendidly right by Belle in this captivating and profoundly enlightening portrayal."—Booklist (starred review)"Kept me intrigued, fascinated, and mesmerized throughout….Everyone should know about the woman who took risks, carved her own path, silenced the naysayers, and forged ahead to becoming one of Americas most prominent librarians in history. Definitely a must-read."—The Nerd Daily"Both a stunning tribute to an amazingly courageous woman and a searingly timely exploration of race relations in America, The Personal Librarian is an extraordinary novel that will have you frantically googling the key figures to learn more. I wont be ready to part with Belle and her contemporaries for a long time after finishing this one."—Bookreporter.com Review Quote "Historical fiction at its best... The Personal Librarian spins a complex tale of deceit and allegiance as told through books." -- Good Morning America "Benedict, who is white, and Murray, who is African American, do a good job of depicting the tightrope Belle walked, and her internal conflict from both sides--wanting to adhere to her mothers wishes and move through the world as white even as she longed to show her father she was proud of her race. Like Belle and her employer, Benedict and Murray had almost instant chemistry, and as a result, the books narrative is seamless...I became hooked." -- NPR "A fascinating story!" -- Real Simple "An extraordinary tale that is both brilliant historical fiction and an important and timely commentary on racism. By holding up an unflinching mirror and illuminating this little-known chapter in American history, these two gifted authors have penned a work that is a must-read." -- Pam Jenoff , New York Times bestselling author of The Woman with the Blue Star "A marvel of a story. This unflinching look at one womans meteoric rise through New Yorks high society is enthralling, lyrical, and rife with danger. Belles painful secret and her inspiring courage will capture - and break - your heart. Serious kudos to Benedict and Murray for bringing this true story to life." -- Fiona Davis , New York Times bestselling author of The Lions of Fifth Avenue " The Personal Librarian illuminates the extraordinary life of an exceptional, intelligent woman who had to make the impossible choice to live as an imposter or sacrifice everything shed achieved and deserved. That Belle denied her true identity in order to protect herself and her family from racial persecution speaks not only to her times but also to ours, a hundred years later. All that glitters is not gold. This is a compelling and important story." -- Therese Anne Fowler , New York Times bestselling author of A Good Neighborhood "As richly depicted as the lush world of art and literature Belle da Costa Greene presided over...an immersive, sweeping delight as well as an intimate, moving, and powerful portrait of Belles personal and professional life. An unforgettable, captivating read!" -- Chanel Cleeton , New York Times bestselling author of The Most Beautiful Girl in Cuba "Meticulously researched, heartbreaking, and inspiring...a fascinating look at a very public figure fighting a deep private battle, whose story still resonates with surprising power and immediacy today." -- Kristin Harmel , New York Times bestselling author of The Book of Lost Names "An untold story that is simply amazing. Its timely and impactful." -- Brenda Jackson , New York Times bestselling author of Follow Your Heart "A stunning and timely novel about a woman who, in forging a path for herself, had to battle constantly against the limitations society tried to place upon her due to her gender - and who also had to hide her true identity from a racist world...both a triumph and a fitting tribute to Belles courage, her fierce desire to protect her family and her personal struggle to be both the woman she was, and the woman she was not allowed to be." -- Natasha Lester , New York Times bestselling author of The Paris Secret "An intimate and extraordinary conversation with the past. As Belle da Costa Greene achieves her dreams by forsaking an identity, we wonder if we would or could do the same to irrevocably alter the literary world and our family. A novel abundant with culture, art, literature, and romance--the beauty and recklessness of love are revealed with astonishing clarity." -- Patti Callahan , New York Times bestselling author of Surviving Savannah "From the moment I picked up The Personal Librarian , I was in awe of Belle da Costa Greene. My heart went out as she navigated the life she lived and the one she hid.... Belles story couldnt come at a more fitting time as our country faces a united path forward." --ReShonda Tate Billingsley, National bestselling author of A Little Bit of Karma "Upon starting this novel, be prepared to do nothing else until youve reached its poignant, reflective end. Through brilliant pacing and with painstaking care , Benedict and Murray paint a vibrant portrait of a woman whose accomplishments, relationships, and secretive history were as complex and intriguing as the collections she helped curate...a timely, provocative read perfect for book clubs. I loved it." -- Kristina McMorris , New York Times bestselling author of Sold on a Monday "From the opulent gilded age ballrooms of New York, to the fiercely competitive auction houses of Europe, The Personal Librarian is a poignant story of race, class and one womans struggle to live authentically." -- Ren Excerpt from Book Chapter 1 November 28, 1905 Princeton, New Jersey The Old North bell tolls the hour, and I realize that Ill be late. I long to break into a sprint, my voluminous skirts lifted, my legs flying along the Princeton University pathways. But just as I gather the heavy material, I hear Mamas voice: Belle, be a lady at all times. I sigh; a lady would never run. I release the fabric and slow down as I weave through Princetons leafy Gothic landscape, designed to look like Cambridge and Oxford. I know I must do nothing to draw any kind of extra attention. By the time I pass Blair Arch, my stride is quick but acceptable for a lady. Its been five years since I left our New York City apartment for this sleepy New Jersey college town, and the quiet is still unnerving. On the weekends, I wish I could return to the energy of New York, but the sixty cents for a train ticket is outside our familys budget. So, I send money home instead. As I duck under a crenellated tower, I moderate my pace so I wont be breathless when I arrive. You are at Princeton University. You must take extra care working at that all-male institution. Be cautious, never do anything to stand out. Even though shes nearly sixty miles away, Mama insinuates herself into my thoughts. Pushing the heavy oak door slowly to minimize its loud creak, I pad as quietly as my calfskin boots allow, across the marble foyer before I sidle into the office I share with two other librarians. The room is empty, and I exhale in relief. If sweet-natured Miss McKenna saw me arrive late, it would have been of no import, but with hood-eyed, nosy Miss Adams, I could never be certain she wouldnt mention my offense at some future time to our superior. I remove my coat and hat, careful to smooth my rebellious curly hair back into place. Tucking my somber navy skirt beneath me, I slide onto my chair. Within minutes, the office door flies open, slamming against the wood-paneled wall, and I jump. It is my only dear friend, fellow librarian, and housemate, Gertrude Hyde. As the niece of the esteemed head of purchasing for the library, Charlotte Martins, she can breach the quiet of the librarys hallowed halls without fear of repercussions. An ebullient twenty-three-year-old with ginger hair and bright eyes, no one makes me laugh as she does. "Sorry to make you jump, dear Belle. I guess I owe you two apologies now, instead of the single one Id intended. First, we abandoned you this morning, which undoubtedly led to your lateness," she says with a mischievous smile and a glance at the wall clock, "and now, Ive given you a fright." "Dont be silly. The fault is mine. I should have put aside that letter to my mother and walked to campus with you and Charlotte. Miss Martins, I mean," I correct myself. Most days, Charlotte, Gertrude, and I walk together from their large family home on University Drive, where I have a room and share meals with Charlotte, Gertrude, and the rest of their family who live in the house as well. From the first, Charlotte and Gertrude have welcomed me into their home and social circles with warmth and generosity and have provided me with abundant guidance at work. I cannot imagine what my time in Princeton would have been like without them. "Belle, why are you fussing about what to call Aunt Charlotte? Theres nobody in here but you and me," Gertrude mock scolds me. I dont say what Im thinking. That Gertrude doesnt need to assess every single moment of every single day against societal standards to ensure her behavior passes muster. She has no need to analyze her words, her walk, her manner, but I do. Even with Gertrude, I must act with care, particularly given the heightened scrutiny in this university town, which operates as if it lies in the segregated South rather than in the supposedly more progressive North. The distinctive clip of Miss Adamss shoes sounds in the hallway outside my office door, and Gertrudes skirt rustles as she moves to leave. She has as much fondness for my office mate as I do, and shell skedaddle before she can get locked into a conversation. Before she exits the office altogether, she turns back to me, whispering, "Are you still free for the philosophy lecture tonight?" Since Woodrow Wilson assumed the presidency of Princeton University three years ago and instituted all sorts of scholastic reform, the number of lectures open to staff and members of the community has increased. While Gertrude and I revel in being included in the academic life of the campus, I loathe certain of Wilsons other decisions, such as maintaining Princeton as a whites-only university when all the other Ivy League schools have admitted colored folks. But I would never voice aloud these views. Instead, I say, "Wouldnt miss it for the world." *** The quiet of the stacks wraps around me like a soft blanket. I relax into the subdued hush of patrons turning pages and the scent of leather bindings. My long days spent in the company of medieval manuscripts and early printed books calm and delight me. Imagining the labors of the first printing press users as they memorialized the English language and broadly disseminated its literature through the meticulous work of placing the type letter by letter, transforming empty pages into beautiful text to inspire worshippers and readers, transports me beyond the limitations of this time and place, just as Papa always believed. To him, the written word could act as an invitation to free thought and the broader world, and nowhere was that more true than in the dawn of the printed word, where--for the first time--that invitation could be made to the masses instead of a select few. "Miss Greene." I hear a soft voice from beyond the stacks. Two simple words, but my visitors modulated tone and distinctive accent give him away, and anyway, Ive been waiting for him. "Good day, Mr. Morgan," I reply, turning in his direction. Even though Im talking softly, Miss Scott glances up from the circulation desk with a disapproving scowl. It isnt so much the volume of my speech as the pleasantness of my relationship with the fellow librarian and collection benefactor that vexes her. While Mr. Junius Morgan is ostensibly a banker, he has generously donated dozens of ancient and medieval manuscripts to the university, which is why he also holds the titular position of associate head librarian. Im convinced that Miss Scott thinks any sort of relationship between us--even the cordial, professional one we share--is beneath him. A slight man, with wispy brown hair and a kindly expression behind his circular glasses, materializes. "How are you today, Miss Greene?" "Well, sir. And yourself?" My tone is professional and reserved. Hes twenty minutes later than the time wed mentioned, and Id begun to think hed forgotten about our appointment. But I would never dare mention his tardiness. "I was going to take a gander at the Virgils, as we discussed yesterday. I wonder if youd still care to accompany me. Assuming your duties and your interest permit, of course." Mr. Morgan, whom I think of as Junius in the privacy of my thoughts, knows that my zeal for the librarys most valuable collection is nearly as intense as his own and that none of my other tasks will stand in the way of the private viewing he has promised. We share a passion for the ancient Roman poet Virgil. The library houses fifty-two volumes of his poetry. My discussions with Junius about the dark voyages in The Aeneid and The Odyssey are some of the brightest moments in my days. While Junius admires Odysseus, I identify always with Aeneas, the Trojan refugee who desperately tries to fulfill his destiny in a world that holds no place for him. Aeneas was driven by duty, sacrificing for the good of others. "I have cleared my schedule, sir." I smile. "Wonderful. If youll follow me." My skirts swish the oak floor as I follow Junius to the small, elegant room where the Virgils are housed. I have to inhale and restrain my foot from tapping as I wait for him to fish out a heavy key ring from his pocket. Finally, he pushes the door open to reveal the glass cases holding the precious collection of rare books. There are only about one hundred and fifty printed books of Virgils poetry in existence. These volumes were all printed in the fifteenth century. Most of them have been donated by Junius. Ive seen these books only a few times before, while in the company of the restoration team. This is a holy moment. Mr. Morgans voice worms its way into the sanctity of my thoughts. "Would you care to hold my favorite?" Junius is carrying the Sweynheym and Pannartz copy of Virgil, the rarest of all the books. German clerics Conrad Sweynheym and Arnold Pannartz were two of the first users of the printing press in the fifteenth century, and the book hes proffering is one of their presss very first editions. "May I?" I ask, incredulous at this opportunity. "Of course." His eyes are bright behind his spectacles. I suspect its a thrill for him to share his prize with one who cares equally about it. I slide th Details ISBN0593101545 Author Victoria Christopher Murray Pages 352 Language English Year 2022 ISBN-10 0593101545 ISBN-13 9780593101544 Format Paperback Publication Date 2022-06-07 DEWEY 813.6 Country of Publication United States AU Release Date 2022-06-07 NZ Release Date 2022-06-07 US Release Date 2022-06-07 UK Release Date 2022-06-07 Place of Publication New York Audience General Publisher Random House USA Inc Imprint Bantam Press We've got this At The Nile, if you're looking for it, we've got it. With fast shipping, low prices, friendly service and well over a million items - you're bound to find what you want, at a price you'll love! TheNile_Item_ID:136094565;

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