Peak Picks & Reviews

But throughout its history, including today, scarlet has been a much sought-after shade that speaks most strongly of power and strength. Introduction  The Colour Bible by Laura Perryman is a comprehensive exploration of the role that color plays in our daily lives. Aimed at designers, artists, architects, and anyone interested in the psychology and history of color, this book is more than just a guide to different hues—it is an in-depth study of how color influences culture, branding, fashion, art, and even our emotions. Perryman, an experienced color consultant and trend forecaster, uses her expertise to guide readers through the multifaceted nature of color, breaking down its nuances and practical applications in the modern world.  This book goes beyond the surface appeal of color to dig into its historical and cultural significance, making it an essential read for professionals and amateurs alike. In this review, we’ll explore the thematic elements of The Colour Bible, disc...

I had the picture of the last man to die. The last day, some of the best ones die. But those alive will fast forget. Introduction  Robert Capa's Slightly Out of Focus is not just a memoir; it’s a gripping narrative that offers an intimate look into the life of one of the most renowned war photographers of the 20th century. Published in 1947, the book recounts Capa’s experiences during World War II, providing readers with a unique blend of historical documentation and personal reflection. Capa, known for his courage and ability to capture the brutal reality of war, uses this memoir to explore the human side of the conflict, making it not only a war diary but also a poignant piece of literature.  Robert Capa was a Hungarian-born photographer who co-founded Magnum Photos, one of the most prestigious photo agencies in the world. He is perhaps best known for his photographs of the Spanish Civil War and the D-Day landings at Normandy. In Slightly Out of Focus, Capa reflects on these...

This is how I feel every single day of my life, like I'm falling without a parachute. Introduction  New Kid, written by Jerry Craft, is a groundbreaking graphic novel that resonates deeply with its audience, particularly young readers navigating the often turbulent waters of adolescence. Released in 2019, New Kid stands out not only for its engaging narrative and vibrant illustrations but also for the critical social themes it explores. The novel has earned widespread acclaim, including the prestigious Newbery Medal, making Craft the first African American author to receive this honor for a graphic novel. New Kid tells the story of Jordan Banks, a 12-year-old African American boy who is trying to find his place in a predominantly white private school. Through Jordan’s eyes, Craft addresses issues of race, identity, and belonging, making the novel a significant contribution to contemporary children's literature. Synopsis  New Kid follows the journey of Jordan Banks, a talented ...

I have been in my domain for nine thousand eight hundred and fifty-five days. Alone. For a while, when I was young and foolish, I thought I was the last gorilla on earth. Introduction  Katherine Applegate’s The One and Only Ivan is a poignant, beautifully written middle-grade novel that deftly explores themes of friendship, freedom, and the human-animal bond. Published in 2012, the book has garnered widespread acclaim, including winning the prestigious Newbery Medal. The story is inspired by the real-life experiences of a captive gorilla named Ivan, who spent 27 years in a shopping mall cage before being relocated to a zoo. Applegate’s novel, however, transcends its factual origins to deliver a tale that is both heartbreaking and hopeful. Through the voice of Ivan, a silverback gorilla who has lived for years in captivity, Applegate invites readers to reflect on the complexities of animal captivity and the powerful connections that can form between beings, no matter how different t...

To see what no human has seen before, to know what no human has known before, to create as no human has created before, it may be necessary to see as if through eyes that have never seen, know through a mind that has never thought, create with hands that have never been trained. Introduction  The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin is a book that straddles the realms of creativity, philosophy, and spirituality, offering readers an introspective journey into the nature of artistic creation. Known primarily as a legendary music producer, Rick Rubin’s name is synonymous with a vast array of musical successes, spanning genres from hip-hop to rock, and his influence is deeply embedded in modern music history. However, The Creative Act diverges from the typical memoir or instructional guide; instead, it dives into the broader, more abstract processes of creativity, inviting readers to explore what it means to be an artist in the fullest sense of the word. This review will explore ...

There is no there there. Introduction  "Everybody’s Autobiography," written by Gertrude Stein and published in 1937, stands as a fascinating sequel to her acclaimed work, " The Autobiography of Alice B. Toklas ." While the former focused on Stein’s life through the perspective of her partner, Alice B. Toklas, this follow-up offers a more personal and direct exploration of Stein’s own experiences and reflections. Renowned for her experimental style and unique voice, Stein continues to defy conventional narrative forms, offering readers an intricate tapestry of thoughts, observations, and anecdotes. This review looks into the various facets of "Everybody’s Autobiography," providing a comprehensive analysis of its content, themes, and literary significance. Synopsis  "Everybody’s Autobiography" is less a linear account of events and more a stream-of-consciousness narrative that blurs the lines between autobiography and fiction. Stein’s narrative mea...

You cannot tell what a picture really is or what an object really is until you dust it every day and you cannot tell what a book is until you type it or proof-read it. It then does something to you that only reading never can do. Introduction  "The Autobiography of Alice B. Toklas," written by Gertrude Stein and published in 1933, is a unique literary work that defies conventional genres. Presented as an autobiography of Stein’s life partner, Alice B. Toklas, the book is a vibrant depiction of the avant-garde art scene in early 20th-century Paris. Stein, a central figure in the artistic and literary community, uses Toklas’s voice to narrate her experiences, giving readers an intimate look at the lives of notable figures such as Pablo Picasso, Ernest Hemingway , and Henri Matisse. This review will look into the book’s synopsis, thematic analysis, and overall impact, highlighting its place in literary history. Synopsis  "The Autobiography of Alice B. Toklas" is not an...

As if I enjoyed things I didn’t enjoy. As if I were happy, and as if I hadn’t been abandoned by the people I loved. Introduction  Claire Messud’s novel "The Woman Upstairs," published in 2013, is a masterful exploration of the hidden depths of a woman's life, revealing the simmering rage and unfulfilled desires beneath a veneer of normalcy. The protagonist, Nora Eldridge, is a 42-year-old elementary school teacher living in Cambridge, Massachusetts. From the outset, Messud sets the tone with Nora's opening declaration of anger, a fierce and unrelenting fury at the smallness of her existence. This novel is not just a story about a woman; it is a profound commentary on the roles society imposes on women, the sacrifices made for art and personal fulfillment, and the intricate dynamics of human relationships. Synopsis  "The Woman Upstairs" is narrated by Nora Eldridge, who presents herself as an "angry, angry woman." She is single, childless, and seemi...

We wanted a mystery—a new visual form—but one we could still decipher. Introduction  Jonah Lehrer's book, "Mystery," digs into the intricacies of human cognition and creativity through the lens of various enigmatic subjects. Known for his previous works that blend science with storytelling, Lehrer attempts to unravel the compelling allure of mystery in human experience. This review explores the core elements of the book, including its synopsis, thematic depth, and overall impact, to provide a comprehensive understanding of Lehrer's latest contribution to popular science literature. Synopsis  "Mystery" is an ambitious exploration of how humans perceive and are drawn to the unknown. Lehrer weaves together stories from a wide range of fields, including neuroscience, psychology, art, and literature, to illustrate his central thesis: mysteries are a fundamental aspect of human cognition and creativity. The book is structured into several chapters, each focusing o...

Art should be Truth; and Truth unadorned, unsentimentalized, is Beauty. Introduction  "I, Juan de Pareja" by Elizabeth Borton de Treviño is a historical novel that dives into the life of Juan de Pareja, an African slave who becomes an accomplished painter in his own right during the 17th century in Spain. This novel, awarded the Newbery Medal in 1966, not only explores the themes of art and creativity but also tackles issues of freedom, identity, and friendship. Treviño’s meticulous research and vivid storytelling bring to life the world of Diego Velázquez, one of Spain’s greatest painters, and his relationship with Juan de Pareja. The book provides a compelling blend of historical facts and imaginative narrative, making it a significant work in children’s literature and a profound story of resilience and human spirit. Synopsis  The story is narrated by Juan de Pareja, an African slave who serves the renowned Spanish painter, Diego Velázquez. The novel opens with Juan as a yo...

At times we turn gladly from fine art to industry, science, politics, and domestic life. Introduction  In his seminal work, "Art as Experience," philosopher and educator John Dewey dives into the essence of art and its profound impact on human experience. Originally published in 1934, Dewey's ideas continue to resonate in contemporary discourse, influencing scholars, artists, and enthusiasts alike. This review aims to critically analyze Dewey's perspectives, exploring the thematic richness of his work, and evaluating its relevance in today's cultural landscape. Thematic Analysis  Dewey's exploration of art transcends traditional aesthetic theories, focusing instead on the experiential aspect of artistic encounters. Central to his thesis is the idea that art is not merely an object or a product but a dynamic process that unfolds in the interaction between the artwork and the observer. For Dewey, the aesthetic experience arises from the fusion of perception, emo...

 I think that sometimes we need permission to stop and adore, and a work of art grants us that. Introduction  Patrick Bringley's "All the Beauty in the World: The Metropolitan Museum of Art and Me" transcends the typical museum memoir. It's a poignant exploration of loss, self-discovery, and the transformative power of art. Bringley, a former New Yorker staffer, weaves together his personal journey with his decade-long experience as a guard at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met).  The book opens with a raw and relatable moment - Bringley's decision to leave his fast-paced job after the tragic loss of his brother to cancer. Seeking solace and a new direction, he takes a seemingly unconventional path, landing a position as a guard at The Met. This seemingly mundane job becomes a catalyst for introspection and a profound connection with the vast collection of art surrounding him. Thematic analysis 1. Finding Solace in the Halls of The Met  Bringley's persona...

Perhaps art is ultimately all about the personal experience, the reaction you have to it, the reaction I have to it. Introduction  "Playing to the Gallery" by Grayson Perry is a compelling exploration of the contemporary art world, offering readers a witty and insightful journey into the often complex relationship between artists, their work, and the audience. Published in 2014, Perry's book serves as a guide for both art enthusiasts and novices, providing a fresh perspective on the art scene while demystifying its intricate nuances. This review aims to look into the key themes presented in the book, offering a thematic analysis that highlights Perry's unique voice and the broader questions he raises about the nature and purpose of art. Thematic Analysis 1. Dismantling the Ivory Tower: Accessibility and Understanding  One of the most striking aspects of "Playing to the Gallery" is Perry's commitment to demystifying contemporary art. He dismantles the per...