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Still Lives

384 pages, 2018

fiction

fiction

1382 books
Takeaways
Description
Art enthusiast Kim Lord’s avant-garde self-portraits, Still Lives, are being exhibited at the Rocque Museum. The self-portraits depict herself as famous murdered women—the Black Dahlia, Chandra Levy, Nicole Brown Simpson among many others—and the works are as compelling as they are disturbing, implicating a culture that is too accustomed to violence against women. As the city’s richest art patrons pour into the Rocque Museum’s opening night, all the staff, including Maggie Richter hope the event will be enough to save the historic institution’s flailing finances. Even though Lord never shows up to her gala. Fear has mounted since Lord went missing and there is suspicion on the up-and-coming gallerist Greg Shaw Ferguson (Maggie's ex) who happens to be present at his ex's gallery opening.
The Power of Art

In Still Lives, Maria Hummel explores the power of art to both conceal and reveal truths. The protagonist, Kim Lord, uses her artwork to shed light on the violence against women. This book encourages us to see art as a tool for social commentary and change.

The Mystery of Identity

Hummel's book delves into the mystery of identity. Kim Lord, an artist, disappears, leaving behind her controversial exhibition, 'Still Lives'. The book makes us question how well we really know the people in our lives and the secrets they may be hiding.

The Role of Women in Society

Still Lives is a deep dive into the role of women in society. Through the missing artist and her artwork depicting famous murdered women, Hummel forces us to confront the violence and objectification women face. It's a call to action for better treatment of women.

The Intricacies of Relationships

Hummel's book explores the complexities of relationships. The protagonist, Maggie, is not only investigating Kim's disappearance but also dealing with her complicated feelings for her ex-boyfriend who is now Kim's boyfriend. This book encourages us to look into our own relationships and their complexities.

The Thrill of Suspense

If you're a fan of suspense, you'll love Still Lives. Hummel masterfully builds tension as Maggie investigates Kim's disappearance. The book keeps you on the edge of your seat, making you eager to find out what happens next.

Recommendations

1
Reese Witherspoon

Reese Witherspoon

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Still Lives found in libraries

1
187 books

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