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All the arts we practice are apprenticeship. The big art is our life.
M.C. Richards
“Fernandez’s immersive rendering of Jo van Gogh Bonger’s real-life efforts. . . is a story of such substance readers won’t want to miss a single word.”
–NJ Mastro, author of Solitary Walker: A Novel of Mary Wollstonecraft
"Drawing on voluminous research, Fernandez brings to life the unexpected story of Jo van Gogh Bonger. I found it tremendously gratifying to discover the vital role she played at a time when women were virtually excluded from the art world."
–Jude Berman, author of The Vow
“[This is] . . . a great story . . . and timely application of advocacy principles for women, especially. Jo’s experience demonstrates agency in a man’s world and holistic fulfillment. Each chapter exemplifies a bend in the road, a triumph and pitfall, in the process of creating a successful marketing campaign.”
— Penelope Schmidt, gallery owner
Fernandez does an excellent job in her portrayal of Jo as a strong, determined woman ahead of her time in the male-dominated art world...Saving Vincent... forces readers to become deeply invested in Jo as a woman, creating an unforgettable portrait of resilience and passion. Very highly recommended.
— Readers Favorite, FIVE STARS
"The writing here is solid, clear and effective. The book is well-researched . . . it feels like a fresh take on the history of a well-known artist. The way Van Gogh pieces are included is a nice conceit.”
— The BookLife Prize
Joan Fernandez is a remarkable author; her latest book is an invitation to delve into the captivating story of Jo van Gogh. . . In this delightful read, Fernandez not only uncovers Jo's significance but also enlightens us about the crucial role she played, weaving a rich tapestry of storytelling that underscores the profound importance of art in our lives.
—Midwest Book Review
“Joan Fernandez has brought to vivid life a truly remarkable person in tooth, claw and sinew that perhaps the world in general knows too little of. The writer has made her own and not inconsiderable contribution to a necessary and fuller understanding of the contribution of a truly steadfast and courageous individual.”
— Historical Fiction Company
“Fernandez masterfully weaves together Jo’s personal and professional struggles. . . Saving Vincent is not just a biography but a testament to Jo’s unwavering dedication and resilience. Through this engrossing narrative, Fernandez sheds light on the woman who made Vincent Van Gogh a household name, showcasing her as the unsung heroine of his legacy.”
—Xanadu Book Awards
“Joan Fernandez’s SAVING VINCENT, like the art of its eponymous demiurge, brilliantly evokes both the dignity of the mundane and the fire of revolution at the turn of the 20th century.”
—IndieReader
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