“Losing is the indispensable condition for feeling alive.”

The threat of a terrible illness is the catalyst for 10-year-old Mona and her grandfather to place value on their intergenerational relationship and the power of art.

In supporting his grandchild’s positive outlook and memory storage, Henri plans to use the next 52 Wednesdays to visit 52 works of art. He helps her find a balance between darkness and beauty as they experience the healing power of art.

Reading was slow on this one because (despite the wonderful explanations of each piece of art) I needed to see the piece for myself. That’s not a bad thing going slow, don’t get me wrong. Just be prepared to reach for Google or an art book if you want to see what’s being described.

I loved the advice given to his granddaughter: “Mona, go towards what you risk.”

I can see why this is such a popular book. It’s emotionally rich and healing.

I was gifted this copy by Europa Editions and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.