Review: The Marriage of Opposites by Alice Hoffman

Sarah_Khan · Post by **Sarah_Khan** » 27 Jan 2016, 13:14

The Marriage of Opposites is a historical fiction novel based in the 1800's about the mother of a famous painter named Camille Pissarro, otherwise known as the father of impressionism. Most of the story takes place on one of the U.S. Virgin Islands called Saint Thomas.
The majority of the book is told through the point of view of Camille's mother.
I really enjoyed reading this book until about 65% in. The last 35% of the book is about Camille and it is written through his point of view but for me, his story was utterly boring compared to the magnificent trials of the life of his mother. By the time I got to Camille's part I was just wishing the book would end.
If I had to rate this book just by the first 65% I would give it a 5 out of 5 stars. Alice Hoffman is a wonderful author that creates a magical and emotional world with her eloquent words paired with the intriguing story of Rachel (Camille's mother) and her marriages, her love, and her children which create a story I could not put down.
But the last 35% was lackluster so in the end I decided to give it 4/5 stars which means I would still recommend it to anyone.

mkel138 · Post by **mkel138** » 23 Jul 2016, 19:36

This was a book but there are some boring parts in the end area, but it is still a good book.

joanofarc2015 · Post by **joanofarc2015** » 29 Jul 2016, 23:23

"The Marriage of Opposites" by Alice Hoffman is a beautiful tale of famous painter, Camille Pissaro's family. It begins and focuses more on his mother Rachel. "The opposite" elements about the novel defines its beauty. Rachel is strong-willed girl who wants to be considered an equal among men but because of her gender cannot. She lives in St. Thomas, a island that is supposed to accept all faiths but the boundaries between the Jews and other religions are set clearly. She stands for equality and freedom of expression growing old but shows no approval for Camille's actions with the same beliefs. I think this book is brilliant to not stay within boundaries of Camille's but go back to his family roots then highlight his mother as his inspiration.

TKThorne · Post by **TKThorne** » 06 Aug 2016, 11:02

If anyone is familiar with all her other books, which one would you recommend. Reading time is limited, but I would like to have read at least one. Thanks!