Burning Bright by Tracy Chevalier is a captivating historical novel set in 18th-century England, a period marked by scientific curiosity and societal transformation. The story interweaves the lives of a taxidermist’s apprentice and his enigmatic patron, both bound by a shared fascination with preserving and understanding the natural world. Chevalier’s meticulous research brings to life the era’s blend of Enlightenment thought and superstition, while her elegant prose delves deeply into themes of mortality, obsession, and human connection. This richly textured narrative invites readers to explore the delicate boundary between life and art, making Burning Bright a compelling and thought-provoking addition to any collection of historical fiction.
Burning Bright by Tracy Chevalier is a captivating historical novel set in 18th-century England, a period marked by scientific curiosity and societal transformation. The story interweaves the lives of a taxidermist’s apprentice and his enigmatic patron, both bound by a shared fascination with preserving and understanding the natural world. Chevalier’s meticulous research brings to life the era’s blend of Enlightenment thought and superstition, while her elegant prose delves deeply into themes of mortality, obsession, and human connection. This richly textured narrative invites readers to explore the delicate boundary between life and art, making Burning Bright a compelling and thought-provoking addition to any collection of historical fiction.
Harper Collins 2007 softcover first edition. Copy has name inscribed inside otherwise a clean copy internally/externally
