The Personal Librarian

A GMA Book Club Pick (A Novel)

By: Marie Benedict, Victoria Christopher Murray

Narrated by: Robin Miles

Length: 12 hrs and 23 mins

Publisher's summary

The Instant New York Times Bestseller! A Good Morning America* Book Club Pick!

Named a Best Book of the Year by NPR! Named a Notable Book of the Year by the Washington Post!

“Historical fiction at its best!”*

A remarkable novel about J. P. Morgan’s personal librarian, Belle da Costa Greene, the Black American woman who was forced to hide her true identity and pass as White in order to leave a lasting legacy that enriched our nation, from New York Times bestselling authors Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray.

In her twenties, Belle da Costa Greene is hired by J. P. Morgan to curate a collection of rare manuscripts, books, and artwork for his newly built Pierpont Morgan Library. Belle becomes a fixture in New York City society and one of the most powerful people in the art and book world, known for her impeccable taste and shrewd negotiating for critical works as she helps create a world-class collection.

But Belle has a secret, one she must protect at all costs. She was born not Belle da Costa Greene but Belle Marion Greener. She is the daughter of Richard Greener, the first Black graduate of Harvard and a well-known advocate for equality. Belle’s complexion isn’t dark because of her alleged Portuguese heritage that lets her pass as White—her complexion is dark because she is African American.

The Personal Librarian tells the story of an extraordinary woman, famous for her intellect, style, and wit, and shares the lengths she must go to—for the protection of her family and her legacy—to preserve her carefully crafted White identity in the racist world in which she lives.

©2020 Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray (P)2020 Penguin Audio

Critic reviews

“Historical fiction at its best.... The Personal Librarian spins a complex tale of deceit and allegiance as told through books.” (Good Morning America)

“Benedict, who is white, and Murray, who is African American, do a good job of depicting the tightrope Belle walked, and her internal conflict from both sides - wanting to adhere to her mother's wishes and move through the world as white even as she longed to show her father she was proud of her race. Like Belle and her employer, Benedict and Murray had almost instant chemistry, and as a result, the book's narrative is seamless...I became hooked.” (NPR)

“An extraordinary tale that is both brilliant historical fiction and an important and timely commentary on racism. By holding up an unflinching mirror and illuminating this little-known chapter in American history, these two gifted authors have penned a work that is a must-read.” (Pam Jenoff, New York Times best-selling author of The Woman with the Blue Star)

Astonishing

in addition to being well written and beautifully performed, this is the story of how a young woman of color, even though she had to pass as white, built one if the most famous collections of manuscripts and art in the world - the Morgan Library. Little did I know the truth of her brilliance in all the times I walked through that gorgeous building and its collection. A must for people interested in the early women's movement, the reality of being black in America in the early 20th century, and of course, the arts.

The Secret That Had to Be Told

Belle's story was riveting and inspiring. The history informative and intriguing. The performance excellent. what a phenomenal. Thank you ladies for introDucing uS To Belle. Just the mention of the Suffrage March was a special touch for me, A Delta Girl.

Great story!

I loved this story. I gave it a 4 because of the length and how some chapters seem to drag, but overall, a pleasant read that entertained and informed me.

One of my favorites

This was one of the most well written and well narrated books I have had the pleasure to enjoy. Thank you

Delightful read

Wonderful narrator, a delight to listen to. Really enjoyed the storyline, and to learn of this compelling story.

A Tale Well Told

The story of Belle da Costa Greene was fascinating! I loved the civility of this age. Even though the discrimination of the era caused Belle so much grief, people in polite society behaved according to certain rules.

The thought that Belle’s accomplishments would have been completely undone because of her race is disheartening!! The fact that we are still plagued by these racist views shows how little we have learned as we watch history repeat itself!

I absolutely loved the narrator. She brought Belle and the book to life!!!

Very informative story on invaluable history

I am glad I read this informational book on a strong intelligent woman's love and appreciation for books. history and the arts while living and traveling in a racist society.

Amazing!

I really enjoyed listen to this book. It transported you back in time. It also help you to see that so many things that African Americans faced then are stilling happening now. Great job ladies!!!

Historically prodigious

An awe inspiring read full of historicity and insight. Belle oftentimes reminded me of myself, my mother and grandmother some aunts and cousins too. From the very beginning I was intrigued. Throughout the story I laughed and cried. I felt myself involuntarily smiling at the wit, honesty and candor throughout. I’m intrigued more now of Belle’s tale, her father’s and even the Morgans’. Thank you Marie Benedict for your courage to tell the story. Thank you Victoria Christopher Murray for your commitment to stay true to who we are. You two are a lovely pair. ❤️

History and fiction beautifully combined

Not many words come to mind when you hear such a wonderful, well written and researched story. Excellent and moving and encouraging.