The first chapter of the book
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt catapults the reader to several years before the events of the book with the main character in Amsterdam. This technique hooked me into the story right away. The character, Theo (Although, at the time, we didn't know his name), is trying to read a Dutch newspaper article about something that had happened earlier that day. He is very concerned that his name will show up in it. This leads him back to the memory of his mother, and that segues into the events that occurred at the Frick Museum of Art in New York. Theo and his mother walk around the museum while they wait for the rain to stop outside. Theo's mother explains what all the paintings mean because she was an Art History major. After a while, the pair become separated as the mother wants to go look at some other paintings. Then suddenly, a bomb goes off. Theo is able to escape the building after a while and is sent away by a fireman before he can go back and look for his mom. The Chapter ends here.
The beginning of this book had me on the edge of my seat the whole time. I began reading with very little knowledge of what was going to happen. All I knew was that something was going to happen with a painting called the Goldfinch. I also loved how Tartt was able to connect me with Theo and his mother within a few sentences of describing them so that I would be emotionally invested in them. This allows for a more realistic and gut wrenching experience while reading the book.
Below is a picture of the titular painting, The Goldfinch by Carel Fabritius (1654)
To read more visit
http://www.frick.org/exhibitions/mauritshuis/605
From what I have read so far, this does sound like a really good book. I like the type of syntax that the author uses from what you described, because I thought it was cool how you were able to be connected to Theo and his mother in just a couple of sentences, and yet still be emotionally involved or invested in them. That shows great writing that the author uses. I also like how Tartt starts off the story by giving you background information. In my opinion, while it may seem pointless at first, that kind of start to a book could be very useful to the reader's knowledge of the novel as they progress through the book.
ReplyDeleteI'm curious how the title "The Goldfinch" is related to the story, I don't know much about the bird but it seems to be colorful and small. Also, on the other hand, how did the author keep you so excited? Were there hints of an event in the story as Theo and his mother walk through the museum? It sounds like a good read, and I plan on reading it soon too!
ReplyDeleteThat sounds like such a interesting and captivating way to end the first chapter! I would have to keep reading to find out if Theo's mom is okay. I also wonder what the Goldfinch symbolizes, and how the painting will come into importance later on in the novel.
ReplyDeleteI have never heard of this book ever. Also by the way you describe it, it makes it sound very interesting. I will be adding this to my wish to read books.
ReplyDeleteThat sounds like a very good way to start and end the first chapter! I like it when books and movies start at a time and then go back in time. I hope that Theo's mom is okay.
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