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There are currently 24 member reviews
for When We Were Brilliant
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Peggy H. (Erie, PA)
A Brilliant View
This book did an exemplary job of turning my opinion of Marilyn Monroe on its head. I have seen many of her films, and have heard and have read the usual summary of her life, but this novel really made me think of her in a completely different way. I was unfamiliar with Eve Arnold (and paused the book to do my own research and look at some of the photos mentioned).
The story of their friendship amidst the patriarchal worlds of both publishing/photography and Hollywood/Broadway does shine a light on the struggles of women during that era. The book is well-researched and easily readable It makes we want to go back and watch all the Monroe films mentioned to look for the woman behind the makeup.
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Dorothy S. (Carrollton, TX)
The Give and Take of Friendship
From Marilyn Monroe admitting, "I don't really know who I am," to photographer Eve Arnold's ability to distill truth and communicate vulnerability through her lens, Lynn Cullen pulls back the curtain to show Marilyn's fortitude in confronting chronic pain and heartbreak. In this respectful look at friendship, Cullen explores what the lives of Marilyn Monroe and Eve Arnold "might say to us about being human." This is an insightful, compelling character study of "dirty girl" Norma Jeane, who became the super star that we know as Marilyn Monroe. Eve Arnold, Norma Jeane's only real friend, manages to illuminate her soul through photography. Marilyn Monroe: An Appreciation holds the treasured photographs and was the springboard for this novel. Lynn Cullen spotlights Marilyn's marketing genius combined with Eve's powerful photography in When We Were BRILLIANT. As Norma Jeane would say, "Imagine!"
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Borderlass, Belmont, MA
A Brilliant Book, A Clever Concept
Having read an advanced reader copy of Lynn Cullen's latest historical novel obtained via BookBrowse, happily enough in "one go," I am struck by its cleverness and the adeptness of its author, both as researcher and writer. Award-winning photojournalist Eve Arnold serves as narrator of this engrossing tale, thus showcasing two individuals' intertwined careers - that of herself and that of movie star, Hollywood actress Marilyn Monroe. The story occurs at a time of changing roles and expanding media modalities wherein only the grittiest and savviest of women can function, let alone get a foothold. The result yields much to ponder and would appeal to women's book groups as well as students of Women's History and Old Hollywood. Comparing and contrasting these two shining stars and their brilliant trajectories - one shortened by tragedy - likely would yield thoughtful analysis and lively discussion.
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Joanne S. (Haddonfield, NJ)
Shining the Light on Two Icons
I enjoy historical fiction books about events and/or people I know little about. When We Were Brilliant by Lynn Cullen perfectly fits the bill. Although I knew the basics about Marilyn Monroe prior to reading the book, I was not at all familiar with Eve Arnold, a trailblazer in the male-dominated world of photojournalism. Cullen did an amazing job of not only introducing me to Eve, but giving me the opportunity to get to know her and her work through this story. However, this book is about much more than two famous two women. It is a look at female friendship, the difficulties faced by women who desired a career in the 1950s and 60s, and the big stories of that time period. I will definitely be checking out Cullen's other works.
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Barbara B. (Harlingen, TX)
When We Were Brilliant
I always have a problem reading fiction based on real people and events. Instead of enjoying the book as written I wonder what is real and what is not. That said I did find this story so well researched and the writing exciting that I enjoyed every page.
The story explores the relationship between Marilyn Monroe and Eve Arnold The events in Marilyn's life and Eve's are both true and the dialogue is interesting and probable. Marilyn's short life was a search for respect and love Eve was searching for acceptance and success as the first female photojournalist. Their friendship sustained them when their successes came at a great cost.
We who knew of Marilyn have memories. Those who did not will learn of his icon's sad and lonely life.
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Rebecca G. (Havertown, PA)
A story of two remarkable women.
I was 8 years old when Marilyn Monroe died so she was never really a part of my culture. But I've seen her movies and read the rumors about her and her many lovers. She was truly bigger than life but being big just makes the crash to earth much harder. I love Ms. Cullen's portrayal of her; a shy, insecure, dirty girl as she called herself. She really was just Norma Jeane not the bombshell, slut, killer of marriages that the press and public made her out to be. The only other book that I've read that claimed to be about Marilyn was Blonde by Joyce Carol Oates. It didn't paint a pretty picture. I didn't know anything about Eve Arnold, although I am going to look her up to read more about her. I truly felt while reading this book that it was the real Eve writing it. The writing was that brilliant and convincing. I am glad these two women were able to find each other and to know that Marilyn was able to find a true friend among all the wolves. Anyone obsessed with or in love with Marilyn Monroe should definitely read this book,
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Linda M. (Ocala, FL)
A Brilliant Book About Two Brilliant Women
When We Were Brilliant is a book that allows us to view Marilyn Monroe through an entirely different lens and will change forever what you thought you knew about the cultural icon of the 1950s. Though a novel, the book is impeccably researched and gives the reader a detailed look at the wonderful friendship and collaboration that developed between Marilyn and Eve Arnold, a documentary photographer. Both women become empowered by this relationship. This book shows how Norma Jean Baker created Marilyn Monroe and even refers to her in the third person. We are treated to her humor, wit, intelligence and ability to manage the dialogue and the situation. Eve Arnold was able to capture Marilyn on film, like no other photographer, without the use of retouch, tripod, or studio and with only natural lighting. This book will remind the reader of those written by Marie Benedict and Patti Callahan and would make an excellent book club selection.
