NONFICTION

The Mona Lisa Vanishes: A Legendary Painter, a Shocking Heist, and the Birth of a Global Celebrity

by Nicholas Day (text) & illus. by Brett Helquist
Random House Studio. Sept. 2023. 288p. Tr $19.99. ISBN 9780593643846.
COPY ISBN
Gr 5 Up–Most readers will not know that the Mona Lisa painting was once stolen from its home at the Louvre. This nonfiction middle grade book contextualizes this historic moment with world events. The publicity that surrounded the theft only added to the painting’s fame. Readers will learn of the heist, discover new connections to other artists, and find out fascinating details and facts of the long-ago crime. Moving back and forth between the caper and the life of Leonardo da Vinci, the text takes readers around the world figuratively and literally. Day writes in a pleasant conversational style, addressing readers directly. The story moves along at a reasonable pace and includes many historical figures; the abundance of cultural references makes the story challenging, but interesting.
VERDICT An intriguing exploration of a significant yet little-known event.
Reviewed by Amy Caldera , Sep 29, 2023

Be the first reader to comment.

Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

BOOKS

How to Be a Vet and Other Animal Jobs
by French, Jess
BOOKS

Wat Takes His Shot: The Life & Legacy of Basketball Hero Wataru ­Misaka
by Kim, Cheryl
BOOKS

The Wolf Effect: A Wilderness Revival Story
by Parry, Rosanne
BOOKS

Legends of Hip-Hop: Biggie Smalls: An Opposites Biography
by Ken, Pen
BOOKS

Daughter of the Light-Footed People: The Story of Indigenous Marathon Champion Lorena Ramírez
by Medina, Belen
BOOKS

Slow Adventures: Enjoy Every Moment: 40 Real-Life Journeys by Boat, Bike, Foot, and Train
by Honoré, Carl
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?