New Release (3-3-20): Frida in America

Frida in America

by Celia Stahr

4⭐⭐⭐⭐

***I received a free copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Frida is America by Celia Stahr is an intriguing look at the fascinating Frida Kahlo and her three years she spent in America.  The author does give the reader brief information about before and after the three year period but the bulk of the book is set during those three very important years in her artistic career.  Frida was only 23 when she came to America for the first time.  Diego had a commission in San Fransisco. 

This is an interesting look into Frida's life.  She is complicated, persuasive, odd, and fascinating.  At times I even found her to be sad and confused.  She had an addictive love for her husband, Diego.  Their relationship was not your typical relationship.  It revolved around their art and their artistic friends/community. Frida and Diego both seem to have something magnetic about them which draws people in who want to be close to them and be a part of their lives.

The writing is very detailed when it came to describing the the paintings and Frida's clothing.  I stopped a number of times to look up a painting because I was fascinated by the descriptions.  The author is also very detailed about the symbolism that is present in Frida's art.  

This book is the culmination of 10 years of research by Celia Stahr.  She had access to numerous letters, journals, diaries, and newspaper articles.  It is very detailed in every aspect of the book.  I found the history in this book fascinating.  At times I did feel there was too much information on their friends but these friends were well known and influential people that had an impact on Frida and Diego's lives.  This was not a light read but I feel the author did an amazing job putting together such a detailed account of their three years in America.

About the author....

Celia Stahr

Thank you to St. Martin's Press for the opportunity to read and review this book. 

Biographies & Memoirs

Release Date: March 3, 2020

Personal Note...  

This book has a special place for me because Frida Kahlo is my daughter's favorite artist.  I have heard about her for years.  I know feel that I know this artist that my daughter is very passionate about her life and her art.

Exhibit Info....

If you are interested seeing a Frida Kahlo Exhibit there is one in Chicago over the Summer 2020.  You can find more information here.