Review of The Painting
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Jaituni Sanghavi
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Review of The Painting
[Following is a volunteer review of "The Painting" by Michael C Reid.]
The Painting by Michael C. Reid is a novel based on a true story, knitting a tale of friendship, history, and artistic mystery in Havana, Cuba. The plot follows two brothers, Roberto and Carlos (affectionately called Carlitos by his brother), who help an elderly friend of 92 years of age, Julio, move houses. In return, Julio gifts them a painting by Carlos Sobrino, a significant yet underappreciated Cuban artist. The painting, titled “El Saxofonista,” immediately captures the brothers’ attention, especially Roberto, who, even after facing disapproval from Guillermo, his father, to keep the painting at their house, hides it under his mattress. The story does not just end there but instead begins from here as the brothers embark on a quest to uncover the painting’s value and history. They uncover more than just the story of the artwork.
The next morning, Roberto wakes up with a sense of excitement and curiosity about the painting. He becomes intrigued by the saxophonist in the painting and begins to wonder about the artist, Carlos Sobrino. Despite his father’s warnings, Roberto and Carlos research Sobrino further, setting off to the José Martí Library in Havana to learn more about the artist's life and work. As they dig deeper into the art world, they connect with other characters like Anabela, the daughter of Carlos Sobrino. Anabela reveals some deep details of her father’s life that intrigue the brothers and set them on a further, deeper quest. What happens next? What does Anabela reveal? Does Roberto execute the career plan he has been thinking about concerning art? If these questions excite you, then you should consider reading this book.
The first thing that held my attention was the fact that this novel was based on a true story. Plus, the way Michael C. Reid blended fact and fiction, delivering a vivid portrayal of life in 1980s Havana under the Castro regime, was something wonderful. His attention to historical and cultural details, particularly about art and Cuban society, provides a sense of genuineness and gravity to the story. The novel also excels in capturing the brothers’ evolving relationship, their struggles, and their differing worldviews—Carlos’ calm pragmatism contrasts with Roberto’s youthful exuberance. I also liked how the novel has a Spanish vibe to it. Thus, considering all of these factors, I would rate the book 5 out of 5 stars. I could not find anything to dislike about the book. The editing is also excellent and flawless.
Overall, The Painting is a beautifully written novel that is rich in Cuban culture and history and explores the brothers’ relationship, the socio-political landscape of the time, and the transformative power of art. I would recommend it to readers who like exploring culturally and artistically rich stories based on facts.
******
The Painting
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
The Painting by Michael C. Reid is a novel based on a true story, knitting a tale of friendship, history, and artistic mystery in Havana, Cuba. The plot follows two brothers, Roberto and Carlos (affectionately called Carlitos by his brother), who help an elderly friend of 92 years of age, Julio, move houses. In return, Julio gifts them a painting by Carlos Sobrino, a significant yet underappreciated Cuban artist. The painting, titled “El Saxofonista,” immediately captures the brothers’ attention, especially Roberto, who, even after facing disapproval from Guillermo, his father, to keep the painting at their house, hides it under his mattress. The story does not just end there but instead begins from here as the brothers embark on a quest to uncover the painting’s value and history. They uncover more than just the story of the artwork.
The next morning, Roberto wakes up with a sense of excitement and curiosity about the painting. He becomes intrigued by the saxophonist in the painting and begins to wonder about the artist, Carlos Sobrino. Despite his father’s warnings, Roberto and Carlos research Sobrino further, setting off to the José Martí Library in Havana to learn more about the artist's life and work. As they dig deeper into the art world, they connect with other characters like Anabela, the daughter of Carlos Sobrino. Anabela reveals some deep details of her father’s life that intrigue the brothers and set them on a further, deeper quest. What happens next? What does Anabela reveal? Does Roberto execute the career plan he has been thinking about concerning art? If these questions excite you, then you should consider reading this book.
The first thing that held my attention was the fact that this novel was based on a true story. Plus, the way Michael C. Reid blended fact and fiction, delivering a vivid portrayal of life in 1980s Havana under the Castro regime, was something wonderful. His attention to historical and cultural details, particularly about art and Cuban society, provides a sense of genuineness and gravity to the story. The novel also excels in capturing the brothers’ evolving relationship, their struggles, and their differing worldviews—Carlos’ calm pragmatism contrasts with Roberto’s youthful exuberance. I also liked how the novel has a Spanish vibe to it. Thus, considering all of these factors, I would rate the book 5 out of 5 stars. I could not find anything to dislike about the book. The editing is also excellent and flawless.
Overall, The Painting is a beautifully written novel that is rich in Cuban culture and history and explores the brothers’ relationship, the socio-political landscape of the time, and the transformative power of art. I would recommend it to readers who like exploring culturally and artistically rich stories based on facts.
******
The Painting
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Latest Review: Web of deceit by C J Carroll
