42 pages • 1 hour read
The Autobiography of Alice B. Toklas
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Book Brief
The Autobiography of Alice B. Toklas
Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 1933252
Biography • Nonfiction
Paris, France • 1900s
1933
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Autobiography of Alice B. Toklas by Gertrude Stein is a quasi-autobiography written from Toklas's perspective but centered on Stein's life and influential Modernist circles in early 20th century Paris. It details the women's formative years, their life together, interactions with notable artists like Picasso and Matisse, and their roles during wartime, highlighting Stein's creative process and Toklas’s supportive companionship.
Nostalgic
Contemplative
Informative
Playful
Humorous
Reviews & Readership
13,783 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Gertrude Stein's The Autobiography of Alice B. Toklas offers a vibrant portrayal of Parisian bohemian life through Toklas’ eyes. Critics praise Stein's unique narrative style and insightful portrayal of art and culture. However, some find the prose challenging and self-indulgent. Overall, it's a must-read for fans of modernist literature.
Who Should Read The Autobiography of Alice B. Toklas?
A reader who enjoys The Autobiography of Alice B. Toklas by Gertrude Stein is likely intrigued by early 20th-century avant-garde art and literature. This reader would appreciate unconventional narratives and the rich cultural history of Paris. Fans of Ernest Hemingway's A Moveable Feast and James Joyce’s Ulysses would find it engaging.
13,783 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Alice B. Toklas
Alice B. Toklas
Stein's long-time partner and the book’s narrator, who plays a supportive role in Stein’s life, helping with her work and maintaining their household.
Henri Matisse
Henri Matisse
A French painter and early friend of Stein, whose relationship with her evolves as her allegiance shifts more towards Picasso.
Pablo Picasso
Pablo Picasso
A Spanish artist with whom Stein shares a mutually influential friendship, recognized for his groundbreaking work in Cubism.
Fernande Olivier
Fernande Olivier
Picasso’s lover during his early years in Paris, with whom Toklas develops a friendship.
Ernest Hemingway
Ernest Hemingway
An American writer and member of the Lost Generation, who shares a complex relationship with Stein and Toklas during their time in Paris.
252
Biography • Nonfiction
Paris, France • 1900s
1933
Adult
18+ years
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