"Art historians say Luijten's biography is a major step in what will be an ongoing reappraisal - not only of the source of van Gogh's fame but also of the modern notion of what an artist is. For that, too, is something Jo helped to invent." –Russell Shorto, The New York Times
"[Luijten] presents a
fascinating and
detailed account of [Jo van Gogh-Bonger's] astonishing life ... [A]
magnificent tribute." –Martin Bailey,
The Art Newspaper "
Compelling ... The book brings a remarkable woman to wider notice ... The van Gogh brothers were inseparable, in life and death, but thanks to this author's diligence, Jo now has her place alongside them." –Michael Prodger,
Country Life "This revelatory new biography portrays [Jo van Gogh Bonger] as a visionary woman, driven to shake the art world to the core, who took charge of van Gogh's artistic legacy after the brothers' deaths. It also sheds new light on the complex history of how public appreciation for the work of van Gogh the artist originated and grew." –
The Bookseller "
An accessible, immensely researched and vital record of van Gogh-Bonger's remarkable life ... [Jo] ensured that Vincent's talent and pieces lived on; now her own extraordinary work and legacy are highlighted in this
essential book from Luijten." –Chloe Edwards,
Buzz "More than a literary biography... Jo's life and her experiences in the international art world fascinate and enthral." –
De Standaard "
All for Vincent captivates you. It is as if you are a personal witness to the story of a girl from Amsterdam who breaks free from her protective environment and grows into a strong and dedicated woman in a world that is dominated by men." –
Trouw "The book provides an ideal compliment to the letters and diaries, fleshing out what is, in the latter case for Jo, a rather fragmentary record, largely preoccupied with what she describes as, 'the mirror of my inner life'. Armed with all the archive material at his disposal, Mr Luijten expertly fills in the gaps using sources that include not only Jo's diaries, but [from] her son, Vincent Willum ... this reader can only recommend [the author's] book." –
Journal of Curatorial Studies "It's massively important. [...] It shows that without Jo there would have been no van Gogh." –
Steven Naifeh, author of the bestselling 'Van Gogh: The Life' (2011) and 'Van Gogh and the Artists He Loved' (2021)
