Sarah speaks with author Joan Fernandez about her captivating historical fiction novel, Saving Vincent. Perfect for fans of stories that uncover the hidden lives of extraordinary women, this novel shines a light on Jo van Gogh Bonger, the woman who saved her brother-in-law Vincent van Gogh from obscurity.

Set in the late 19th and early 20th century, Saving Vincent follows Jo as she navigates grief, single motherhood, and the male-dominated art world after the sudden death of her husband Theo. Inheriting hundreds of Vincent’s unsold paintings—considered worthless at the time—Jo refuses to accept defeat. Instead, she takes bold steps to support her young son while dedicating herself to bringing Vincent’s work to the attention it deserved.

Jo’s persistence and vision not only shaped the way the world views Van Gogh’s genius today, but also demonstrated her own remarkable courage and ingenuity. Fernandez’s richly researched novel brings this overlooked heroine to the forefront, reminding us that history often forgets the women who change it.

Sarah and Joan discuss the inspiration behind the book, the meticulous research required to capture both Jo’s world and Vincent’s art, and the universal themes of resilience, independence, and legacy. This episode offers listeners a new perspective on one of art history’s most famous figures by focusing on the woman who safeguarded his place in it.

Tune in to hear Joan Fernandez share the story behind Saving Vincent, the extraordinary Jo van Gogh Bonger, and why her story matters as much today as it did over a century ago.


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