Mona's Eyes - by Thomas Schlesser (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

Barnes & Noble 2025 Book of the Year - Boston Globe Best Book of the Year - National Indie Bestseller - Indie Next Pick - Indigo Heather's Pick

"Luminous."--Boston Globe

Mona and her grandfather have only fifty-two weeks to encounter all that is beautiful in the world before Mona loses her sight forever.

A moving and inspiring journey through Paris and its magnificent museums in the company of two unforgettable characters, Mona's Eyes embraces the fullness of life as it tells a poignant story of the special relationship between a girl and her grandfather.

"There is something quite addictive about Thomas Schlesser's Mona's Eyes. Once you start reading it, you cannot stop."--The Art Newspaper

Includes reproductions of all 52 artworks mentioned in the book, a Reading Group Guide, and exclusive Q&A with the author

Review Quotes

"There is an exuberance, élan, and joie de vivre throughout this marvelous book as well as a bottomless well of appreciation for art and its history. Intellectually rich, erudite and at the same time accessible with its terrific story...it's a book to read, gift, and cherish."--Book Trib

"A life-affirming narrative."--Booklist

"Heartfelt."--New York Times

"Readers of Jostein Gaarder's Sophie's World will love this."--Publishers Weekly

"An ode to beauty and wisdom."--Le Parisien 

"Will leave you both grounded and inspired."--The Simply Luxurious Life

"No surprise that the novel's author is a professor of art history at the École Polytechnique in Paris; his characters channel his dazzling command of the greats."--Hyperallergic

"A French art historian's English-language fiction debut combines the story of a loving relationship between a grandfather and granddaughter with an enlightening discussion of art... Come for the novel, stay for the introductory art history course."--Kirkus Reviews