Plot Summary

Lust for Life

Irving Stone
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Lust for Life

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1934

Book Brief

Irving Stone

Lust for Life

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1934
Book Details
Pages

512

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Europe • Late 19th Century

Publication Year

1934

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Irving Stone’s Lust for Life traces the life of Vincent van Gogh, beginning with his strict, religious upbringing in the Netherlands, through his various unrequited loves and struggles with art, to his move to Paris where his work blossoms with color under the influence of prominent contemporaries; the story chronicles his relentless pursuit of artistic expression despite continuous emotional turmoil and mental health challenges, culminating in his tragic death. The book addresses mental health issues and self-harm.

Emotional

Inspirational

Bittersweet

Melancholic

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.3

29,663 ratings

83%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Irving Stone's Lust for Life has been praised for its vivid narrative and meticulous research, bringing Vincent van Gogh's life to the forefront with emotional depth. Positive feedback highlights its compelling storytelling and rich character development. Critiques often mention its dramatized elements may veer into fiction, potentially overshadowing historical accuracy.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Lust for Life?

A reader who would enjoy Lust for Life by Irving Stone is likely captivated by historical fiction and biographical novels, especially those showcasing artistic genius. Fans of Donna Tartt's The Goldfinch or Tracy Chevalier's Girl with a Pearl Earring will appreciate Stone's vivid depiction of Vincent van Gogh's turbulent life and profound creativity.

4.3

29,663 ratings

83%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Fun Facts

Lust for Life was first published in 1934 and is a biographical novel about the life of the famous Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh, known for capturing his intense emotional journey.

Irving Stone conducted extensive research by visiting the various locations where Van Gogh lived, and he used Van Gogh's own letters to his brother Theo as primary sources to infuse authenticity into the narrative.

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The book was adapted into a 1956 film of the same name, with Kirk Douglas starring as Vincent van Gogh, a role that earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.

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Book Details
Pages

512

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Europe • Late 19th Century

Publication Year

1934

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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