Shadow is a Colour as Light is - by Michael Langan (Paperback)

About the Book

Over a century after Cézanne's death his art still obsesses and enraptures. And for the characters in this beautiful novel, the painter's work is of crucial significance. Through multiple narratives Michael Langan asks: can art ever save us?

Book Synopsis

Over a century after Cézanne's death his art still obsesses and enraptures.

And for the characters in this multifaceted novel, the painter's work is of crucial significance.

In Hong Kong, will billionaire art collector Walter and his son ever be reconciled? In Liverpool, will artist Nick find peace? In New York, can Joel and Sophie mend their relationship with the help of Cézanne's work in the Metropolitan Museum?

Through these multiple narratives Michael Langan deftly explores human relationships and asks: can art ever save us?

'A dazzling journey through grief, love, passion and dependency, with human frailty at its centre... I adored it!' - Celia Anderson, author of 59 Memory Lane

'Running through is a clear passion for art and an insightful understanding of the human heart, and what it desires. 'Shadow is a Colour as Light is' is a truly beautiful read and, as with the best of books, I felt grateful to have spent time in its richly realised world.' - Kerry Hudson, The Big Issue

'Its exploration of how art moves us - how it speaks to our fears, our failings, our fantasies - is one that everyone should read' - Joe Heap, author of The Rules of Seeing

'As detailed and beautiful as a Cézanne painting, this is a rich and complex story of family, love and grief' - Annie Lyons, author of The Happiness List

'I cannot recommend this exquisite book highly enough...Michael's writing is every bit as beautiful and moving as the Cezanne paintings that inspired his story. His book is a skilful and moving exploration of how art touches people's lives. An absolute treasure!' - Ruth Hogan, author of The Keeper of Lost Things

Michael Langan has a PhD in Creative Writing and is a former university lecturer. Born and raised in Liverpool, Michael now lives with his husband, an artist, in Lisbon.

Review Quotes

'A dazzling journey through grief, love, passion and dependency, with human frailty at its centre... I adored it!' - Celia Anderson, author of 59 Memory Lane

'Running through is a clear passion for art and an insightful understanding of the human heart, and what it desires. 'Shadow is a Colour as Light is' is a truly beautiful read and, as with the best of books, I felt grateful to have spent time in its richly realised world.' - Kerry Hudson, The Big Issue

'Its exploration of how art moves us - how it speaks to our fears, our failings, our fantasies - is one that everyone should read' - Joe Heap, author of The Rules of Seeing

'As detailed and beautiful as a Cézanne painting, this is a rich and complex story of family, love and grief' - Annie Lyons, author of The Happiness List

'I cannot recommend this exquisite book highly enough...Michael's writing is every bit as beautiful and moving as the Cezanne paintings that inspired his story. His book is a skilful and moving exploration of how art touches people's lives. An absolute treasure!' - Ruth Hogan, author of The Keeper of Lost Things