What do you think?
Rate this book
The Woman Who Heard Color
Lauren O'Farrell is an "art detective" who made it her mission to retrieve invaluable works stolen by the Nazis during the darkest days of World War II. Her quest leads her to the Manhattan apartment of elderly Isabella Fletcher, a woman who lives in the shadow of a terrible history-years ago her mother was rumored to have collaborated with the Nazis.
But as Isabella reveals the events of her mother's life, Lauren finds herself immersed in an amazing story of courage and secrecy as she discovers the extraordinary truth about a priceless piece of art that may have survived the war and the enduring relationship between a mother and a daughter.
But as Isabella reveals the events of her mother's life, Lauren finds herself immersed in an amazing story of courage and secrecy as she discovers the extraordinary truth about a priceless piece of art that may have survived the war and the enduring relationship between a mother and a daughter.
393 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2011
About the author
Kelly Jones
57 books88 followersKelly Jones grew up in Twin Falls, Idaho. She graduated from Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington, with a degree in English and an art minor. During her junior year in Italy she developed a love for both travel and art history.
Her Dana Pierson mystery series includes Lost and Found in Prague (2015), Bloodline and Wine (2019), and Angel Boy (October 2021.)
The Woman Who Heard Color (Berkley Books, October, 2011), is a historical novel set in Munich, Berlin, and New York. A story of family loyalty, banned art, and creative freedom, it spans a period of over a century.
Other novels include The Seventh Unicorn (Berkley Books, 2005), inspired by The Lady and the Unicorn Tapestries in the Cluny Museum in Paris, France, and The Lost Madonna (Berkley Books, 2007), set in Florence, Italy.
In her novella and short story collection, Evel Knievel Jumps the Snake River Canyon . . . and Other Stories Close to Home, she departs from these settings in a story set in her hometown of Twin Falls, Idaho.
She is a mother and grandmother and is married to former Idaho Attorney General Jim Jones, who also served on Idaho’s Supreme Court. They live in Boise.
Visit Kelly at http://www.kellyjonesbooks.com
Her Dana Pierson mystery series includes Lost and Found in Prague (2015), Bloodline and Wine (2019), and Angel Boy (October 2021.)
The Woman Who Heard Color (Berkley Books, October, 2011), is a historical novel set in Munich, Berlin, and New York. A story of family loyalty, banned art, and creative freedom, it spans a period of over a century.
Other novels include The Seventh Unicorn (Berkley Books, 2005), inspired by The Lady and the Unicorn Tapestries in the Cluny Museum in Paris, France, and The Lost Madonna (Berkley Books, 2007), set in Florence, Italy.
In her novella and short story collection, Evel Knievel Jumps the Snake River Canyon . . . and Other Stories Close to Home, she departs from these settings in a story set in her hometown of Twin Falls, Idaho.
She is a mother and grandmother and is married to former Idaho Attorney General Jim Jones, who also served on Idaho’s Supreme Court. They live in Boise.
Visit Kelly at http://www.kellyjonesbooks.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 209 reviews
April 1, 2017
For me, a historical fiction novel is at it's most successful when it gives the reader a fervent need to learn and know more about the subject matter as soon as they close the book. I wasn't completely sure about The Woman Who Heard Colors in the first few chapters, but as the book progressed and we got more into the heart of the story, I was blown away.
This book is about WWII, and it's about Hitler, and it's about a female art dealer with synesthesia. It touches on the horrors taking place in Germany at the time, and it touches on the beginnings of what would come to be known as the Holocaust, but more than anything, I would say that it is a book about art, love, and family.
Sometimes it can be hard to read WWII Historical Fiction books set in Germany that don't focus mainly on the horrible things going on at the time in terms of Hitler's maniacal purge of all those he felt subhuman; it can feel like a betrayal of those people's stories, in a way? Or maybe that's just me. But there can be historical fiction set during WWII, that takes place in Germany, that is still relevant and important, albeit in very different ways, and that's how I felt about this book.
My boyfriend is quite knowledgeable about 20th century art, and I have a layman's interest myself, so I was familiar with some of the artists mentioned throughout this book - but so many more were completely new to me and the way their stories interwove with the main character's narrative was heartrendingly fascinating. Upon finishing this book, I immediately called my boyfriend and we talked for an hour about art; impressionism turning into abstract, artists responding to the horrors of WWI through their artwork, Hitler's degenerate art purge, and more.
(And after all that research, I've fully decided my favorite of Wassily Kandinsky's works is Akhtyrka, just in case anybody was wondering.)
Overall, this is a book that I would recommend to readers looking for an incredibly well researched novel about art in the early 20th century and the impact of WWII, and Hitler in particular, on that art.
This book is about WWII, and it's about Hitler, and it's about a female art dealer with synesthesia. It touches on the horrors taking place in Germany at the time, and it touches on the beginnings of what would come to be known as the Holocaust, but more than anything, I would say that it is a book about art, love, and family.
Sometimes it can be hard to read WWII Historical Fiction books set in Germany that don't focus mainly on the horrible things going on at the time in terms of Hitler's maniacal purge of all those he felt subhuman; it can feel like a betrayal of those people's stories, in a way? Or maybe that's just me. But there can be historical fiction set during WWII, that takes place in Germany, that is still relevant and important, albeit in very different ways, and that's how I felt about this book.
My boyfriend is quite knowledgeable about 20th century art, and I have a layman's interest myself, so I was familiar with some of the artists mentioned throughout this book - but so many more were completely new to me and the way their stories interwove with the main character's narrative was heartrendingly fascinating. Upon finishing this book, I immediately called my boyfriend and we talked for an hour about art; impressionism turning into abstract, artists responding to the horrors of WWI through their artwork, Hitler's degenerate art purge, and more.
(And after all that research, I've fully decided my favorite of Wassily Kandinsky's works is Akhtyrka, just in case anybody was wondering.)
Overall, this is a book that I would recommend to readers looking for an incredibly well researched novel about art in the early 20th century and the impact of WWII, and Hitler in particular, on that art.
January 16, 2012
I'm not quite sure what to say....I expected magnificence with the 4+ star rating. I was disappointed. It's good, but not stellar.
Ms. Jones' effort is fine, she writes well, but this was not the engaging, I-cannot-put-it-down-must-read-one-more-chapter novel I was expecting. The tie of the modern situation to the past felt forced. Then within the story - too much predictability - the first encounter with Hitler, obvious; the first encounter with Keller, equally obvious.
Further, the whole synesthesia aspect, which was the intriguing thing about the story concept (and the title of the book for that matter) felt like a forced device, an afterthought - it was neither central nor truly significant (with one possible exception in that at the end, it allowed Isabella to understand a particular scope of the relationship between her mother & Keller). Similarly the connection to Kandinsky, the fellow synesthete was also left unfulfilled in any significant way, he was Hanna's artist, but with no real personal connection.
There are better art mysteries (The Swan Thieves), there are better WWII family tragedies (The Invisible Bridge), there are even some better art-related WWII family tragedies (The Lost Wife).
As it wasn't a light read due to the misery of world wars, I can't say that it goes to the top of my recommended list and perhaps workmanlike is the best adjective I can ascribe to it.
Ms. Jones' effort is fine, she writes well, but this was not the engaging, I-cannot-put-it-down-must-read-one-more-chapter novel I was expecting. The tie of the modern situation to the past felt forced. Then within the story - too much predictability - the first encounter with Hitler, obvious; the first encounter with Keller, equally obvious.
Further, the whole synesthesia aspect, which was the intriguing thing about the story concept (and the title of the book for that matter) felt like a forced device, an afterthought - it was neither central nor truly significant (with one possible exception in that at the end, it allowed Isabella to understand a particular scope of the relationship between her mother & Keller). Similarly the connection to Kandinsky, the fellow synesthete was also left unfulfilled in any significant way, he was Hanna's artist, but with no real personal connection.
There are better art mysteries (The Swan Thieves), there are better WWII family tragedies (The Invisible Bridge), there are even some better art-related WWII family tragedies (The Lost Wife).
As it wasn't a light read due to the misery of world wars, I can't say that it goes to the top of my recommended list and perhaps workmanlike is the best adjective I can ascribe to it.
October 15, 2017
Отново история свързана с войните.
Наистина тази година попадам непрекъснато на такива.
Тази ми спести най-големите ужаси, но въпреки всичко е доста тъжна.
И много интересна.
Не й достига единствено нещо в стила на авторката.
Малко недодялан и наивен.
Изобилства с много интересни факти свързани с много известни художници.
Наистина тази година попадам непрекъснато на такива.
Тази ми спести най-големите ужаси, но въпреки всичко е доста тъжна.
И много интересна.
Не й достига единствено нещо в стила на авторката.
Малко недодялан и наивен.
Изобилства с много интересни факти свързани с много известни художници.
May 1, 2021
I was drawn to the novel The Women Who Heard Color by the lovely cover art and interesting title. Art isn't something that interests me a great deal. However, I read a lot of historical fiction, so I figured this book was right up my alley.
A well researched novel with a decent enough story, but the delivery weak in the sense the characters were rather secretive, which left me feeling like I wanted to know more.
I recommend this book to anyone who likes art, historical fiction taking place in or around the second world war, and books with alternate timelines.
February 19, 2012
My small book group (3 of us) read this and pretty much all agreed. The neurological phenomenon included in the title is not a major part of the story; seemed that it had potential to tell the reader more about this as well as make the character more interesting. The juxtaposition of the current characters (young woman searching for art stolen by the Nazis along with Isabelle, the elderly daughter of the story's main character) are not particularly interesting and seem unnecessary. The main character, Hanna, goes through much from her birth in Germany pre WWII, to working as a servant for a wealthy Jewish German family who are art dealers, to her own education and work in the same field which impacts her life during WWII and beyond. It had its interesting parts and kept me reading, but some definite weaknesses, too.
November 19, 2012
I have always had a fascination with synesthesia (the brain’s association of sound with color or any other mixing of the senses), which is what initially drew me to “The Woman Who Heard Color” by Kelly Jones. Although the book promises some World War and World War II suspense (which isn’t my cup of tea); I still decided to dive-in.
“The Woman Who Heard Color” follows a ‘two-books-in-one’ style with a plot taking place in both the turn of the century and in 2009. Although the two storylines blend effortlessly; the clear victor is the action following Hanna Fleischmann in 1900 (I wouldn’t have minded the whole book to follow this discourse).
Regardless of my preference of Hanna’s story versus that of Isabella and Lauren; Jones has a strong sense of literary language and realism. The settings, descriptions, and actions are vivid, colorful (no pun intended), and are brought to life. The senses are piqued during the novel and move the pace with strength. Jones also creates characters with depth and strong, individualistic personalities causing each to be likable and memorable versus simply being pegged to the sideline.
“The Woman Who Heard Color” certainly embodies a unique premise (which will satisfy art lovers); but can be compared to such novels as “The Girl with the Pearl Earring” in some ways. Similarly negative, are some predictable sections plus some details which are passed by but could use elaboration.
Although a minor note, there were moments which could have used extra editing such as the paragraph on pages 39-40 which used the word “particular” four times. Also of note: a line which states, “Having him at the gallery made it all the more fun” which doesn’t fit the historical essence of semantics.
Jones’s extensive knowledge/research concerning German art in the early 1900s is impressive and gratifying. A world which was not previously familiar to me opened its doors to rich facts. Readers definitely gain a suitable chunk of information.
There were some issues with the growth of Hanna’s characterization which, regardless of her age in the story, never fully grew. Had Jones not mentioned her numerical age, the reader would be suspect. Plus, her synesthesia is rarely mentioned despite the title. Sadly, this was a disappointment, due to my subject interest. While discussing characters, it should be mentioned that Jones’s portrayal of Hitler, Nazi Germany, and its connection to art is a multi-layered and original angle. “The Woman Who Heard Color” is not your usual WW novel.
The creativity and detail within the novel is stunning. It is impressive and bewildering that Jones could create such a vibrant world in her mind and bring it to life merely using words. Jones also has a natural way of making descriptions moving and emotional (I cried a couple times).
The conclusion of “The Woman Who Heard Color” felt somewhat forced, weak, and not necessarily the preferred outcome; however, it did provide rounded closure.
Although I would have enjoyed more topic coverage regarding synesthesia; “The Woman Who Heard Color” is extremely original, well-written, and a wonderful, living novel. It felt so real, that I even researched the characters’ true existence (not real)! “The Woman Who Heard Color” is recommended for art and history lovers, alike.
“The Woman Who Heard Color” follows a ‘two-books-in-one’ style with a plot taking place in both the turn of the century and in 2009. Although the two storylines blend effortlessly; the clear victor is the action following Hanna Fleischmann in 1900 (I wouldn’t have minded the whole book to follow this discourse).
Regardless of my preference of Hanna’s story versus that of Isabella and Lauren; Jones has a strong sense of literary language and realism. The settings, descriptions, and actions are vivid, colorful (no pun intended), and are brought to life. The senses are piqued during the novel and move the pace with strength. Jones also creates characters with depth and strong, individualistic personalities causing each to be likable and memorable versus simply being pegged to the sideline.
“The Woman Who Heard Color” certainly embodies a unique premise (which will satisfy art lovers); but can be compared to such novels as “The Girl with the Pearl Earring” in some ways. Similarly negative, are some predictable sections plus some details which are passed by but could use elaboration.
Although a minor note, there were moments which could have used extra editing such as the paragraph on pages 39-40 which used the word “particular” four times. Also of note: a line which states, “Having him at the gallery made it all the more fun” which doesn’t fit the historical essence of semantics.
Jones’s extensive knowledge/research concerning German art in the early 1900s is impressive and gratifying. A world which was not previously familiar to me opened its doors to rich facts. Readers definitely gain a suitable chunk of information.
There were some issues with the growth of Hanna’s characterization which, regardless of her age in the story, never fully grew. Had Jones not mentioned her numerical age, the reader would be suspect. Plus, her synesthesia is rarely mentioned despite the title. Sadly, this was a disappointment, due to my subject interest. While discussing characters, it should be mentioned that Jones’s portrayal of Hitler, Nazi Germany, and its connection to art is a multi-layered and original angle. “The Woman Who Heard Color” is not your usual WW novel.
The creativity and detail within the novel is stunning. It is impressive and bewildering that Jones could create such a vibrant world in her mind and bring it to life merely using words. Jones also has a natural way of making descriptions moving and emotional (I cried a couple times).
The conclusion of “The Woman Who Heard Color” felt somewhat forced, weak, and not necessarily the preferred outcome; however, it did provide rounded closure.
Although I would have enjoyed more topic coverage regarding synesthesia; “The Woman Who Heard Color” is extremely original, well-written, and a wonderful, living novel. It felt so real, that I even researched the characters’ true existence (not real)! “The Woman Who Heard Color” is recommended for art and history lovers, alike.
September 14, 2012
This book has a fabulous plot and premise. It follows Hanna, a German girl from the country, who moves to Munich in 1900 to work in the household of a well-known Jewish art dealer. Hanna's special ability to see colors when she hears voices, music, and other sounds, as well as hear beautiful music when she sees colorful paintings (the neurological condition called synesthesia), catches the interest of her employers, and she begins to learn about art and music and rub elbows with such famous artists as Wassily Kandinsky, Gabriele Munter, and Alexej von Jawlensky.
When Hitler rises to power, Hanna’s talents and knowledge of the art he considers “degenerate” catch his attention, and she becomes involved in the destruction and selling of many works of art. Over a hundred years later, an art detective sets out to find some of these lost paintings and investigate Hanna’s true involvement with the Nazi regime.
Sound like an awesome book? Well, it certainly could have been, but the execution wasn’t quite there. The writing is often flat, repetitive, and obvious; there’s simply too much “telling” and not enough “showing,” as the old adage goes. And then there’s the framework of the art detective in 2009 meeting with Hanna’s now elderly daughter, Isabella. These chapters alternated with Hanna’s, and they were slow and didn’t add much to the novel, and at times, even detracted from the story. At first I assumed the Hanna chapters were Isabella telling Lauren about her mother’s life, and then I was very confused when I realized they weren’t, and in fact, Isabella didn’t have all the information the readers have, and what she told Lauren was different from what the readers had just learned. It was a very unnatural set-up.
This book had so much potential that it just didn’t reach. I’m still glad to have read it because of what I learned about the Nazi censorship and destruction of modern art during World War II.
When Hitler rises to power, Hanna’s talents and knowledge of the art he considers “degenerate” catch his attention, and she becomes involved in the destruction and selling of many works of art. Over a hundred years later, an art detective sets out to find some of these lost paintings and investigate Hanna’s true involvement with the Nazi regime.
Sound like an awesome book? Well, it certainly could have been, but the execution wasn’t quite there. The writing is often flat, repetitive, and obvious; there’s simply too much “telling” and not enough “showing,” as the old adage goes. And then there’s the framework of the art detective in 2009 meeting with Hanna’s now elderly daughter, Isabella. These chapters alternated with Hanna’s, and they were slow and didn’t add much to the novel, and at times, even detracted from the story. At first I assumed the Hanna chapters were Isabella telling Lauren about her mother’s life, and then I was very confused when I realized they weren’t, and in fact, Isabella didn’t have all the information the readers have, and what she told Lauren was different from what the readers had just learned. It was a very unnatural set-up.
This book had so much potential that it just didn’t reach. I’m still glad to have read it because of what I learned about the Nazi censorship and destruction of modern art during World War II.
June 13, 2014
There are many important books, both fiction and non-fiction that tell the story of what happened during WW II in Germany and in other European countries . Many of these focus on the horrific things that happened to the Jews in the concentration camps and the death camps. So why did I like a book that focuses on saving art work? Because it was about preserving the creative spirit that is a symbol for the humanity that Hitler and the Nazis tried to destroy. It is a book about how the human spirit triumphed by saving some of the art works that would have been destroyed had it not been for their courage.
This is a novel, but I couldn't help but wonder about those people that actually did this. The story of Hanna is told in two narratives, one by her daughter Isabella and one in a third person narrative. The writing moves smoothly between the alternating sections.
There is a lot to the story, and it is not my intent to tell it here. I would say that this is certainly worth reading for the interesting story that it is , as well as the the the message that the human spirit can't be destroyed.
This is a novel, but I couldn't help but wonder about those people that actually did this. The story of Hanna is told in two narratives, one by her daughter Isabella and one in a third person narrative. The writing moves smoothly between the alternating sections.
There is a lot to the story, and it is not my intent to tell it here. I would say that this is certainly worth reading for the interesting story that it is , as well as the the the message that the human spirit can't be destroyed.
November 15, 2011
Loved this book! A modern day art history detective meets with the daughter of a supposed Nazi collaborator, thought to have helped Hitler steal great works of art. From that we learn Hanna's story and see from within a family and country, Hitler's total dominance of his people. This has a little different slant though which is what made it fascinating for me, because Hanna has synesthesia, she can look at colors and hear music, and becomes am art agent at her Jewish husband's gallery. This novels centers on the many works of art either stolen or destroyed by Hitler, as well as many of the artists. Kadinsky for one, a Russia painters whose painting forms the backdrop of this story. He also has synesthesia, and so he and Hanna have that in common. Well written and a different slant on the history of World War 11.
June 8, 2012
While I enjoyed the book, I was dissapointed that it did not delve in the synesthesia of the title character more. Since it is what begets the title of the book and what draws the title character, Hanna, to art in the first place.
I also found that in the end, I still did not feel as if the whole story of Hanna was ever truly revealed. Had this been a biography pieced together from survivor accounts and family stories, this would have been understandable, but for a novel whose intent is to reveal the true story of Hanna it seems unfinished. I would have liked more detail and more storyline into her Hanna and Isabella's relationship near the end.
It was an enjoyable story that while intriguing at first left me wanting more meat to the bones of it.
I also found that in the end, I still did not feel as if the whole story of Hanna was ever truly revealed. Had this been a biography pieced together from survivor accounts and family stories, this would have been understandable, but for a novel whose intent is to reveal the true story of Hanna it seems unfinished. I would have liked more detail and more storyline into her Hanna and Isabella's relationship near the end.
It was an enjoyable story that while intriguing at first left me wanting more meat to the bones of it.
April 11, 2012
Generally I adore novels that use the past and present plot threads to weave historical tales that hold a grip on the lives of today's characters. Unfortunately, that particular plot device didn't work for me in this novel. The modern scenes felt contrived, redundant and occasionally amateur. The best writing took place in Germany between the wars. I was rooting for Hanna but the older she got, the more of her life was glossed over-- I guess I wanted her story to sing for me like the colors of a Chagall, Van Gogh or Kandinsky. I was left with a need to learn more about these early modernists whose work has been lost to history-- in that way this novel did touch me.
October 9, 2011
Art Detective, Lauren O’farrell, is investigating art stolen during World War ll in hopes of restoring pieces to their rightful owners. She is looking into, Hanna Fleischmann, who was rumored to be a Nazi Collaborator. She contacts Hanna’s elderly daughter, Isabella to probe about Hanna’s past. She is stunned when Isabella not only invites her into her home, but also shockingly announces she has possession of a Kandinsky painting, which was believed to have been destroyed during the war. Isabella believes she must finally tell her mother’s story before history writes it.
Hanna Schmid was just a young girl when she took off from her German country home. She found work in the affluent home of Moses Fleischmann, a Jewish art dealer. The story of Hanna begins in 1900. She begins with working in the Fleischmann home and later Moses realizes her love for art and she begins working in his gallery where she eventually becomes an art dealer. She lives in Germany with her family during World War l. After Hitler takes over the life Hanna knows and loves is over. In order to survive Hanna must do the unthinkable and work with the Nazis. The story of Hanna Schmid is deeper and darker than even her daughter realizes.
I normally give myself a week for a book, but I went over my week mark with The Woman Who Heard Color. I went over because I needed to put the book down a number of times and really absorb what I was reading. It was fascinating to me to read a story about what life may have been like for German’s living during Hitler’s reign. I was completely engrossed in Hanna’s story. I would read for awhile about the changes Hitler was making and would have to stop and realize how blessed I am to live in the US today—no matter what are political views are we are free to have them and to express them.
I tend to read during the evenings and the last few nights I’d lay in bed for a bit and just think about the story…it felt as if I was really reading Hanna’s story. This is a story filled with history, art, mystery, suspense; it is beautifully written and filled with heart palpitating moments. I was captivated by The Woman Who Heard Color. I highly highly recommend it.
Hanna Schmid was just a young girl when she took off from her German country home. She found work in the affluent home of Moses Fleischmann, a Jewish art dealer. The story of Hanna begins in 1900. She begins with working in the Fleischmann home and later Moses realizes her love for art and she begins working in his gallery where she eventually becomes an art dealer. She lives in Germany with her family during World War l. After Hitler takes over the life Hanna knows and loves is over. In order to survive Hanna must do the unthinkable and work with the Nazis. The story of Hanna Schmid is deeper and darker than even her daughter realizes.
I normally give myself a week for a book, but I went over my week mark with The Woman Who Heard Color. I went over because I needed to put the book down a number of times and really absorb what I was reading. It was fascinating to me to read a story about what life may have been like for German’s living during Hitler’s reign. I was completely engrossed in Hanna’s story. I would read for awhile about the changes Hitler was making and would have to stop and realize how blessed I am to live in the US today—no matter what are political views are we are free to have them and to express them.
I tend to read during the evenings and the last few nights I’d lay in bed for a bit and just think about the story…it felt as if I was really reading Hanna’s story. This is a story filled with history, art, mystery, suspense; it is beautifully written and filled with heart palpitating moments. I was captivated by The Woman Who Heard Color. I highly highly recommend it.
November 10, 2011
A German teenager, Hanna, who associated music with color and for whom color spoke clearly and loudly, manages through the help of her sister, to obtain a housekeeping job in the home of an art dealer. Through his tutelage,and that of his ailing wife, her appreciation for art grows. At dinner parties at the house, she serves artists such as Vassily Kandinsky, Franz Marc and Jalewsky. Later, when she works at the art gallery, her education is further enhanced and her skills in understanding clients and recommending art that they would appreciate is honed.
But then Hitler rises in power, and all of Germany is in disarray. Hitler renounces all modern art as degenerate art, seeking to destroy them. Despite her association with a Jewish gallery and her marriage to a Jewish man, Hanna's talent comes to the attention of none other than Hitler. With her children safely ensconced in America, her husband now dead, and without money to leave Germany, she has no choice but to accept a job cataloging hundreds of paintings and sculptures that had been confiscated by the Nazis.
But when she realizes that Hitler's intention is to destroy most of the paintings he deemed degenerate, she takes desperate and risky measures to try and rescue some of them, with the intention of returning them to their real owners when it was possible to do so.
Her story might never have been told, if not for an art detective finding Hanna's daughter, now in her 80s, and with a presumption that Hanna had been a Nazi collaborator and part of the group that confiscated Jewish owned art for her personal profits.
The narrative as told by Hanna is captivating and full of rich detail. However, when we're brought to the present in the interview between Isabella, Hanna's daughter and Lauren, the art detective, the narrative becomes a little choppy.
On the whole though, it is a story that once started, compels the reader to read it through to the end.
But then Hitler rises in power, and all of Germany is in disarray. Hitler renounces all modern art as degenerate art, seeking to destroy them. Despite her association with a Jewish gallery and her marriage to a Jewish man, Hanna's talent comes to the attention of none other than Hitler. With her children safely ensconced in America, her husband now dead, and without money to leave Germany, she has no choice but to accept a job cataloging hundreds of paintings and sculptures that had been confiscated by the Nazis.
But when she realizes that Hitler's intention is to destroy most of the paintings he deemed degenerate, she takes desperate and risky measures to try and rescue some of them, with the intention of returning them to their real owners when it was possible to do so.
Her story might never have been told, if not for an art detective finding Hanna's daughter, now in her 80s, and with a presumption that Hanna had been a Nazi collaborator and part of the group that confiscated Jewish owned art for her personal profits.
The narrative as told by Hanna is captivating and full of rich detail. However, when we're brought to the present in the interview between Isabella, Hanna's daughter and Lauren, the art detective, the narrative becomes a little choppy.
On the whole though, it is a story that once started, compels the reader to read it through to the end.
March 10, 2013
As other reviewers have said, the title is misleading. Synesthesia doesn't play a major role in this book. Yet it does illustrate that Hanna's perspective is different.
It was actually really hard for me to decide how many stars to give this novel. I can't say that I liked this book, but I also can't say that it was merely OK because it caused me to think about the ethical issues involved in Hanna's conduct. I judge ethics by the consequences of the action. Many would say that Hanna didn't have a choice, but I disagree. I love art, but I place the lives of human beings first on the value scale. To me, it seemed that Hanna prioritized art above the lives of human beings. I understand why she gave art paramount importance. Art had played such a central role in her life. But I was seriously offended by the ending. This was an interesting and provocative novel, but I rated it lower because I very much disagreed with the central character's actions and I wasn't sure that the author fully understood the implications since the ending was presented as a happy one.
It was actually really hard for me to decide how many stars to give this novel. I can't say that I liked this book, but I also can't say that it was merely OK because it caused me to think about the ethical issues involved in Hanna's conduct. I judge ethics by the consequences of the action. Many would say that Hanna didn't have a choice, but I disagree. I love art, but I place the lives of human beings first on the value scale. To me, it seemed that Hanna prioritized art above the lives of human beings. I understand why she gave art paramount importance. Art had played such a central role in her life. But I was seriously offended by the ending. This was an interesting and provocative novel, but I rated it lower because I very much disagreed with the central character's actions and I wasn't sure that the author fully understood the implications since the ending was presented as a happy one.
June 12, 2014
I had read some of the reviews on this when I was half way through the book and didn't see how they could rate this book as average or below average. I loved it. I thought it told a very interesting story and loved Hannah throughout the book. I grew to like Isabella in the end too.
Maybe the historical factors were not exactly right and that was the reason for the dislike, but I found it to be a very interesting take on what happened with some of the art that was taken during Hitler's regime.
I also thought hearing music while looking at art was interesting. My knowledge on that is limited, but I think it would be wonderful to hear music through colors.
I am giving this 5 out of 5 stars. I would definitely read more books by Ms. Jones.
Maybe the historical factors were not exactly right and that was the reason for the dislike, but I found it to be a very interesting take on what happened with some of the art that was taken during Hitler's regime.
I also thought hearing music while looking at art was interesting. My knowledge on that is limited, but I think it would be wonderful to hear music through colors.
I am giving this 5 out of 5 stars. I would definitely read more books by Ms. Jones.
February 11, 2022
An art detective, (Lauren) looking for a woman (Hanna) who may have smuggled art during the Hitler years in Germany, as told through the memories of her daughter (Isabella). Hanna, who has synethesia, or the ability to hear colour, becomes a very successful art gallery owner in Germany, until Hitler starts purging what he thinks is deviant art from galleries and museums. Dealing mostly with the German non-representational modernist art movement, led by Wassily Kandinsky et al., we learn that Hanna becomes the owner of a Kandinsky painting. How did she get it? Was she a Nazi sympathizer who stole art for her own gain? An interesting look at what happened in the arts in Germany while Hitler was in power.
Although the title refers to Hanna's abilities, there is really not much reference to it in the plot.
Although the title refers to Hanna's abilities, there is really not much reference to it in the plot.
March 25, 2020
I loved this book on so many levels. It was interesting to think of her hearing the colors and the way that was described. It was interesting to hear about the art galleries and the artists at the time. And I knew the Nazi's burned books but hadn't ever read about the art.
July 2, 2015
3.5 Stars
This author creates a rich and vibrant story of a woman growing up in an ever changing Germany and Europe during the early 20th century, fighting through tyranny and tragedy to create a better life for her children and to rescue the great artworks of Germany from destruction. I enjoyed the atmosphere the author created, an ever darkening aura over the art world as the story marches towards bonfires of color annihilation. She breathed life into this affluent world of wealth and art as well as its eventual decline under the Nazis.
I liked how the author just drew me into Hanna’s story; she makes her very personable from page one of her story. I loved her vulnerability, intelligence, and fire early in the story as she builds a new life and finds love. The evil on the horizon slowly slides into her life. Eventually, she is forced to live in quiet shadows, showing her resistance and fire in only small ways and living in constant fear of her life.
I do wish the dual storyline would have been handled differently, though. The modern chapters felt very out of place and jarring within the narrative. They had a different pace and focus that I didn’t like. They slowed the flow of Hanna’s story and didn’t really add that much to the story. They were boring, and I frankly didn’t like Lauren or Isabella. All the material presented in these chapters was covered elsewhere or could have been better incorporated as opening or closing chapters.
A beautiful story of resistance and love, Hanna’s story kept me entertained and emotionally invested long after reading. I loved the atmosphere the author was able to achieve in the dark Nazi state and the earlier bright, art-filled world of early 20th century Germany. Yet, her interspersing modern chapters throughout the book jarred the reading experience and slow the story flor dramatically. An enjoyable look at a personal opposition against Nazism but with some issues, this book should still entertain, if only for Hanna’s beautiful story.
This author creates a rich and vibrant story of a woman growing up in an ever changing Germany and Europe during the early 20th century, fighting through tyranny and tragedy to create a better life for her children and to rescue the great artworks of Germany from destruction. I enjoyed the atmosphere the author created, an ever darkening aura over the art world as the story marches towards bonfires of color annihilation. She breathed life into this affluent world of wealth and art as well as its eventual decline under the Nazis.
I liked how the author just drew me into Hanna’s story; she makes her very personable from page one of her story. I loved her vulnerability, intelligence, and fire early in the story as she builds a new life and finds love. The evil on the horizon slowly slides into her life. Eventually, she is forced to live in quiet shadows, showing her resistance and fire in only small ways and living in constant fear of her life.
I do wish the dual storyline would have been handled differently, though. The modern chapters felt very out of place and jarring within the narrative. They had a different pace and focus that I didn’t like. They slowed the flow of Hanna’s story and didn’t really add that much to the story. They were boring, and I frankly didn’t like Lauren or Isabella. All the material presented in these chapters was covered elsewhere or could have been better incorporated as opening or closing chapters.
A beautiful story of resistance and love, Hanna’s story kept me entertained and emotionally invested long after reading. I loved the atmosphere the author was able to achieve in the dark Nazi state and the earlier bright, art-filled world of early 20th century Germany. Yet, her interspersing modern chapters throughout the book jarred the reading experience and slow the story flor dramatically. An enjoyable look at a personal opposition against Nazism but with some issues, this book should still entertain, if only for Hanna’s beautiful story.
February 4, 2013
Lauren O'Farrell is an art detective, specializing in retrieving works stolen by the Nazis and returning them to their rightful owners. During her investigations, she learns of a Munich art dealer, Hanna Fleischmann, who may have collaborated with the Nazis. Lauren tracks down Hanna's daughter, the elderly Isabella Fletcher, hoping to learn more about Hanna's activities during the war. What Lauren find out is shocking - a priceless Kandinsky painting may have survived Hitler's destruction of modern art and that Hanna's activites may not have been what she thought.
I am relatively ignorant in Modern Art (actual, totally ignorant), but the author does a wonderful job of deecribing and explaining the art movement in Germany in the early 20th century. The story of Hanna and the destruction of art in Germany during the Third Reich were well plotted. The development of the character of Hanna was well done; Hanna continued to learn, take risks and do what she felt needed to be done throughout the book. Isabella is also a nicely written character, even in her 80's she is trying to understand her mother. The character of Lauren gives the writer a tool to bring the two stories together.
The book was an enjoyable read, but had the added bonus of leading me to discover the works of some of the artists mentioned in the novel. Kandinsky's Composition II was an actual painting believed to be destroyed during the Third Reich, brought back to life in small part by the book.
I am relatively ignorant in Modern Art (actual, totally ignorant), but the author does a wonderful job of deecribing and explaining the art movement in Germany in the early 20th century. The story of Hanna and the destruction of art in Germany during the Third Reich were well plotted. The development of the character of Hanna was well done; Hanna continued to learn, take risks and do what she felt needed to be done throughout the book. Isabella is also a nicely written character, even in her 80's she is trying to understand her mother. The character of Lauren gives the writer a tool to bring the two stories together.
The book was an enjoyable read, but had the added bonus of leading me to discover the works of some of the artists mentioned in the novel. Kandinsky's Composition II was an actual painting believed to be destroyed during the Third Reich, brought back to life in small part by the book.
Shelved as 'maybe'
August 3, 2013A link to the author's website: http://www.kellyjonesbooks.com/womanW... I am wondering how much of this story is true and how much is fiction. I chose not to read this book because there really is very little in the book about synesthesia!
Oh, look at this: http://www.mentalfloss.com/article/49.... Not only Kandinsky, but also Nabokov had synestheisa. To a small extent it comes up in his memoir Speak, Memory, which I must soon read.
On the topic of synesthesia these books also look interesting:
Wednesday Is Indigo Blue: Discovering the Brain of Synesthesia
and
The Hidden Sense: Synesthesia In Art And Science
which friends at GR have helped me find.
Oh, look at this: http://www.mentalfloss.com/article/49.... Not only Kandinsky, but also Nabokov had synestheisa. To a small extent it comes up in his memoir Speak, Memory, which I must soon read.
On the topic of synesthesia these books also look interesting:
Wednesday Is Indigo Blue: Discovering the Brain of Synesthesia
and
The Hidden Sense: Synesthesia In Art And Science
which friends at GR have helped me find.
January 29, 2015
I read this as part of a book club choice, otherwise I might not have finished it.
Having read and loved The Art Forger, I was hoping that The Woman Who Heard Color might be along a similar vein. Instead, it is a rather dull retelling of someone's life and work in Germany during Hitler's reign. Some hardships are mentioned, but never fully explored. The way Hanna kept her struggles to herself, instead of sharing what had happened with others, was as annoying for me as reader as it must have been for her daughter, Isabella. Honestly, when telling a story, it is rarely a good idea for characters to NOT tell their stories. It creates unnecessary frustration and makes for a boring narrative.
The titular synesthesia is barely touched upon; once Hanna describes the specific blue of a musical note. I have to wonder why this was the focus of the title, as it is really inconsequential to the plot. This is yet another annoyance, this "quirk" given to a character to make her different, to no noticeable effect.
No, this did not appeal to me at all.
Having read and loved The Art Forger, I was hoping that The Woman Who Heard Color might be along a similar vein. Instead, it is a rather dull retelling of someone's life and work in Germany during Hitler's reign. Some hardships are mentioned, but never fully explored. The way Hanna kept her struggles to herself, instead of sharing what had happened with others, was as annoying for me as reader as it must have been for her daughter, Isabella. Honestly, when telling a story, it is rarely a good idea for characters to NOT tell their stories. It creates unnecessary frustration and makes for a boring narrative.
The titular synesthesia is barely touched upon; once Hanna describes the specific blue of a musical note. I have to wonder why this was the focus of the title, as it is really inconsequential to the plot. This is yet another annoyance, this "quirk" given to a character to make her different, to no noticeable effect.
No, this did not appeal to me at all.
August 2, 2012
I was impressed by the local Wellington Library. I put this book in as a request to buy, and then within a month it was on the shelf waiting for me, and boy I do like me a brand new book to read.
I like a bit of historical second world war drama to read, and this was the basis of the story. Lauren O'Farrell is an art detective, who is invited into the home of eighty two year old Isabella Fletcher to help find out about Isabellas mothers past.
Her mother as a teenager, leaves the family farm to go to Munich to see her sister. Given a job in the household where her sister works, she becomes involved with the art world, and as her story unfolds we learn her secrets.
I did enjoy most of the story, but somehow in the middle I was left feeling like something was missing. Maybe it was needing to know a bit more about Laurens story, or about other lost paintings. For that I give it a 3/5
I like a bit of historical second world war drama to read, and this was the basis of the story. Lauren O'Farrell is an art detective, who is invited into the home of eighty two year old Isabella Fletcher to help find out about Isabellas mothers past.
Her mother as a teenager, leaves the family farm to go to Munich to see her sister. Given a job in the household where her sister works, she becomes involved with the art world, and as her story unfolds we learn her secrets.
I did enjoy most of the story, but somehow in the middle I was left feeling like something was missing. Maybe it was needing to know a bit more about Laurens story, or about other lost paintings. For that I give it a 3/5
June 9, 2017
An amazing book combining two interrelated stories, past amd present. In the present-day an "art detective" has made it her mission to retrieve works of art confiscated by the Nazis so they may be returned to their rightful owners. She is seeking to establish the facts about a woman she believes collaborated with the Nazis. The parallel story is that of the suspected collaborator, beginning at the turn of the 20th century and continuing to post-World War II. This is the "woman who heard color," a woman with synesthesia who experiences intertwined sensory perceptions of sight and hearing. The book provides a great deal of background on the art world in Germany both before and during Hitler's rise to power as well as highlighting the tremendous cultural loss perpetuated by thr Nazis in the destruction and theft of so many art works.
May 11, 2012
I really liked the plot of this story as well as the characters. The character development was top notch. The story was one I don't remember ever hearing about before, letting alone reading, so it was refreshing to encounter some actual creativity. My only complaint is that there was a lot of telling as oppose to showing in the descriptions of things and that made it tedious at times. Overall, though, it was a great story.
August 13, 2016
I loved the idea of synesthesia and that the main character had this trait in common with Kandinsky, which gave his paintings so much more meaning for her. I really hated the cover art. Way to pimp up a story that really isn't an erotic one. Not that the author can help what liberties the publisher cares to commit in the name of marketing.
May 26, 2012
I am halfway through this book and am going to do what I rarely do, not finish. The labored attempt to turn a history lecture into fiction is too exhausting for me. I have absolutely no investment in any of the characters. I agree with another reviewer who said the cover art belies the feel of this book. Reading it feels like work to me.
August 7, 2015
This is an excellent book. I loved the blend of historical and modern and the characters were relatable and likable. I learned many facts about art and Hitler's view and implementation of art disposal and procurement during World War II. The writing in enchanting and the story is highly entertaining. I strongly suggest this wonderful book by Kelly Jones.
February 29, 2012
Don't let the cover fool you - it is not a sappy romance book. This is a story within a story about a woman trying to recover art lost during WWII and a young woman during that war struggling to save the precious art she loved so much. I really enjoyed this book!
April 15, 2012
This book had potential, but I found it somewhat disappointing. The synesthesia element was sort of a red herring. The switching between present day and Hanna's history was not fluid and resulted in a lot of repetition. It's a WWII story with an art history hook. Not bad, just not great.
June 26, 2013
Loved this story on how those who lived in Germany during Hitlers rule were affected, controlled and struggled during this time. Moving story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 209 reviews