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Venetian Artisans #2
The Gondola Maker
From the author of Made in Italy comes a tale of artisanal tradition and family bonds set in one of the world's most magnificent settings: Renaissance Venice.Venetian gondola-maker Luca Vianello considers his whole life arranged. His father charted a course for his eldest son from the day he was born, and Luca is positioned to inherit one of the city's most esteemed boatyards. But when Luca experiences an unexpected tragedy in the boatyard, he believes that his destiny lies elsewhere. Soon he finds himself drawn to restore an antique gondola with the dream of taking a girl for a ride.
The Gondola Maker brings the centuries-old art of gondola-making to life in the tale of a young man's complicated relationship with his master-craftsman father. Lovers of historical fiction will appreciate the authentic details of gondola craftsmanship, along with an intimate first-person narrative set against the richly textured backdrop of 16th-century Venice.
Laura Morelli holds a Ph.D. in art history from Yale University, where she was a Bass Writing Fellow and Mellon Doctoral Fellow. She authored a column for National Geographic Traveler called "The Genuine Article" and contributes pieces about authentic travel to national magazines and newspapers. Laura has been featured on CNN Radio, Travel Today with Peter Greenberg, The Frommers Travel Show, and in USA TODAY, Departures, House & Garden Magazine, Traditional Home, the Denver Post, Miami Herald, The Chicago Tribune, and other media.
Recently Morelli's art history lesson, "What's the difference between art and craft?" was produced and distributed by TED-Ed. Laura has taught college-level art history at Trinity College in Rome, as well as at Northeastern University, Merrimack College, St. Joseph College, and the College of Coastal Georgia. Laura has lived in five countries, including four years in Italy.
Laura Morelli is the author of the guidebook series that includes 'Made in Italy', 'Made in France', and 'Made in the Southwest', all published by Rizzoli / Universe.
The Gondola Maker brings the centuries-old art of gondola-making to life in the tale of a young man's complicated relationship with his master-craftsman father. Lovers of historical fiction will appreciate the authentic details of gondola craftsmanship, along with an intimate first-person narrative set against the richly textured backdrop of 16th-century Venice.
Laura Morelli holds a Ph.D. in art history from Yale University, where she was a Bass Writing Fellow and Mellon Doctoral Fellow. She authored a column for National Geographic Traveler called "The Genuine Article" and contributes pieces about authentic travel to national magazines and newspapers. Laura has been featured on CNN Radio, Travel Today with Peter Greenberg, The Frommers Travel Show, and in USA TODAY, Departures, House & Garden Magazine, Traditional Home, the Denver Post, Miami Herald, The Chicago Tribune, and other media.
Recently Morelli's art history lesson, "What's the difference between art and craft?" was produced and distributed by TED-Ed. Laura has taught college-level art history at Trinity College in Rome, as well as at Northeastern University, Merrimack College, St. Joseph College, and the College of Coastal Georgia. Laura has lived in five countries, including four years in Italy.
Laura Morelli is the author of the guidebook series that includes 'Made in Italy', 'Made in France', and 'Made in the Southwest', all published by Rizzoli / Universe.
306 pages, Paperback
First published March 3, 2014
789 people are currently reading
2568 people want to read
About the author
Laura Morelli
29 books941 followersThe first time I visited Venice as a wide-eyed teenager, I knew I was supposed to buy Murano glass, but I had no idea why.
All I knew was that I was whisked to the famous “glass island” on an overcrowded, stinky boat. I waited behind two dozen American and Japanese tourists to pay an exorbitant price for a little glass fish—what a bewildering experience!
Still, it was the artistic traditions of the world that inspired me to study the past. Living in Europe and Latin America, I realized that in many places, centuries-old craft traditions are still living traditions.
So began my quest to discover craftspeople passing on a special kind of knowledge to the next generation.
__________________________________________________
Laura Morelli holds a a Ph.D. in art history from Yale University. Her books include Made in Italy, Made in France, and Made in the Southwest, which lead travelers to some of the world’s most authentic experiences. She has written for many national publications including USA Today and the New York Daily News, and has authored a column for National Geographic Traveler online called “The Genuine Article.” She has taught at Trinity College in Rome, Tufts University, Northeastern University, and the Boston Museum of Fine Arts, and has spoken to public audiences across the U.S. and Europe.
All I knew was that I was whisked to the famous “glass island” on an overcrowded, stinky boat. I waited behind two dozen American and Japanese tourists to pay an exorbitant price for a little glass fish—what a bewildering experience!
Still, it was the artistic traditions of the world that inspired me to study the past. Living in Europe and Latin America, I realized that in many places, centuries-old craft traditions are still living traditions.
So began my quest to discover craftspeople passing on a special kind of knowledge to the next generation.
__________________________________________________
Laura Morelli holds a a Ph.D. in art history from Yale University. Her books include Made in Italy, Made in France, and Made in the Southwest, which lead travelers to some of the world’s most authentic experiences. She has written for many national publications including USA Today and the New York Daily News, and has authored a column for National Geographic Traveler online called “The Genuine Article.” She has taught at Trinity College in Rome, Tufts University, Northeastern University, and the Boston Museum of Fine Arts, and has spoken to public audiences across the U.S. and Europe.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 229 reviews
March 20, 2015
Almost 4 Stars
I really liked this book and I'm not entirely sure why.
As a whole, it wasn't particularly exciting. There's no mystery, intrigue, action and very little romance. And yet, I couldn't put it down.
As an artist, I was fascinated with the whole craftsman experience. Things like ship figureheads fascinate me so getting a birdseye view of gondola makers in the 1500s was awesome.
Through the author's writing, I could visualize Venice like I never had before. Because of the waterways throughout the city, gondolas were used for everything : as taxis, deliveries, messengers etc. So there were dozens (perhaps hundreds) of gondola makers in Venice (the skill passed from father to eldest son throughout generations) as well as oarmakers, ropemakers, the list goes on...
And then there were the artists that flourished in Venice during the 1500s...and the costume makers..it really must have been a fascinating place to live.
So if you're an "artsy" type of person, I think you would really like this as I did.
Now for the cons...
It was strange. The book is written in first person which I generally love because it allows me to 'get into' the character's mind. But in this story the main character, Luca, doesn't have much to say. And doesn't seem to waste too much time thinking either. So even when he is the center of action we feel as though we're observing from a distance. Kind of like a hovering insect.
Infact, we learn of most happenings through the talk and actions of other characters.
And yet I still cared what became of Luca. It was strange.
But at the end of the day, I would have liked more loose ends cleared up. In some ways the ending was satisfying in that we know things will be ok for the main character, and yet I felt a bit cheated. Its like accompanying someone on a long train journey and just when they come to the finale of their life story they say "ok! This is my stop, enjoy the rest of your trip". And off they go without you. And you never know what happens.
The book left me scrambling and searching for an epilogue which wasn't there. I don't want to GUESS what happens. I want to KNOW. FRUSTRATING.
CONTENT :
SEX: No sex scenes but there is mention of both male and female prostitution. Also, at one point a young woman tries to seduce Luca.
VIOLENCE : None
PROFANITY : Very mild (in English) but I suspect there were several in Italian which I just didn't understand.
PARANORMAL ELEMENTS : None
MY RATING : PG-13
Many thanks to NetGalley for a free e-copy to review
I really liked this book and I'm not entirely sure why.
As a whole, it wasn't particularly exciting. There's no mystery, intrigue, action and very little romance. And yet, I couldn't put it down.
As an artist, I was fascinated with the whole craftsman experience. Things like ship figureheads fascinate me so getting a birdseye view of gondola makers in the 1500s was awesome.
Through the author's writing, I could visualize Venice like I never had before. Because of the waterways throughout the city, gondolas were used for everything : as taxis, deliveries, messengers etc. So there were dozens (perhaps hundreds) of gondola makers in Venice (the skill passed from father to eldest son throughout generations) as well as oarmakers, ropemakers, the list goes on...
And then there were the artists that flourished in Venice during the 1500s...and the costume makers..it really must have been a fascinating place to live.
So if you're an "artsy" type of person, I think you would really like this as I did.
Now for the cons...
It was strange. The book is written in first person which I generally love because it allows me to 'get into' the character's mind. But in this story the main character, Luca, doesn't have much to say. And doesn't seem to waste too much time thinking either. So even when he is the center of action we feel as though we're observing from a distance. Kind of like a hovering insect.
Infact, we learn of most happenings through the talk and actions of other characters.
And yet I still cared what became of Luca. It was strange.
But at the end of the day, I would have liked more loose ends cleared up. In some ways the ending was satisfying in that we know things will be ok for the main character, and yet I felt a bit cheated. Its like accompanying someone on a long train journey and just when they come to the finale of their life story they say "ok! This is my stop, enjoy the rest of your trip". And off they go without you. And you never know what happens.
The book left me scrambling and searching for an epilogue which wasn't there. I don't want to GUESS what happens. I want to KNOW. FRUSTRATING.
CONTENT :
SEX: No sex scenes but there is mention of both male and female prostitution. Also, at one point a young woman tries to seduce Luca.
VIOLENCE : None
PROFANITY : Very mild (in English) but I suspect there were several in Italian which I just didn't understand.
PARANORMAL ELEMENTS : None
MY RATING : PG-13
Many thanks to NetGalley for a free e-copy to review
November 20, 2017
Author’s extensive research and her passion for the subject bring a vivid story of Venetian craftsmanship and the livelihood of Venice.
Set in the 16th century Venetian Republic, the story of a family tradition of making gondolas passed from father to son from one generation to the next is told through the eyes of Luca Vianello, the heir to a renowned gondola-making enterprise. An unexpected tragedy occurs in the boatyard and Luca finds himself in a different trade. One day, as he notices an old boat in a boathouse and recognizes his family design a dream of restoring it overcomes him. As he slowly finds his way in the world, he meets a young woman. Her noble family depleted sources force her to find her own way in life.
The story is rich in historical details, all characters are fictional. As the story starts with the authentic details of gondola craftsmanship, I was in awe. However, when the tragedy occurs, the story takes a bit different course and it doesn’t feel the same anymore. As it starts, I thought it would be a perfect read for both genders, but when it switches its course, I’m not sure if the story would be appreciated by male audience as much.
As much as I was transported to Venice with this story, I didn’t feel that the atmosphere of the Renaissance era. The author’s mentioning of clothing, house decorations, and a fictional painter didn’t pull this. Bringing a real artist of Renaissance into this story instead of fictional one would have made a difference for me.
@Facebook: Best Historical Fiction
Set in the 16th century Venetian Republic, the story of a family tradition of making gondolas passed from father to son from one generation to the next is told through the eyes of Luca Vianello, the heir to a renowned gondola-making enterprise. An unexpected tragedy occurs in the boatyard and Luca finds himself in a different trade. One day, as he notices an old boat in a boathouse and recognizes his family design a dream of restoring it overcomes him. As he slowly finds his way in the world, he meets a young woman. Her noble family depleted sources force her to find her own way in life.
The story is rich in historical details, all characters are fictional. As the story starts with the authentic details of gondola craftsmanship, I was in awe. However, when the tragedy occurs, the story takes a bit different course and it doesn’t feel the same anymore. As it starts, I thought it would be a perfect read for both genders, but when it switches its course, I’m not sure if the story would be appreciated by male audience as much.
As much as I was transported to Venice with this story, I didn’t feel that the atmosphere of the Renaissance era. The author’s mentioning of clothing, house decorations, and a fictional painter didn’t pull this. Bringing a real artist of Renaissance into this story instead of fictional one would have made a difference for me.
@Facebook: Best Historical Fiction
May 17, 2016
"In Venice things are not what they first appear. " The Gondola Maker by Laura Morelli is a delightful read. The story captured me as did the main characters. Having been lucky to visit Venice twice, I truly enjoyed sections about the Doge's palace, the Grand Canal, the Rialto Bridge and the prison. Well researched, Morelli made the refurbishing and building a gondola entertaining and educational. Will look for more books written by Morelli.
May 2, 2021
It's written in present tense, so I could only read a chapter or two at a time without wanting to tear my hair out, but the story itself is good. Luca is the eldest son who will inherit his father's gondola making business and marry the daughter of a good business contact. His life is all mapped out for him, until a tragedy derails everything in his life.
I enjoyed reading about his changing fortunes and his experience of the inside world of boatmen. I have no way of knowing the accuracy of their inside society, but it rings true in the story and the author's note afterwards shows a lot of research done. I also got a feel for traveling around Venice, a city I've only seen briefly one afternoon on a whirlwind tour. My experience of a gondola was a tourist version that held about a dozen people and only went onto the Grand Canal for a few minutes. It's a place I would like to go to again for a longer time, hence my attraction to books set there.
I found the ending rather abrupt and it left me with more questions. Despite that and the present tense, I enjoyed the read.
I enjoyed reading about his changing fortunes and his experience of the inside world of boatmen. I have no way of knowing the accuracy of their inside society, but it rings true in the story and the author's note afterwards shows a lot of research done. I also got a feel for traveling around Venice, a city I've only seen briefly one afternoon on a whirlwind tour. My experience of a gondola was a tourist version that held about a dozen people and only went onto the Grand Canal for a few minutes. It's a place I would like to go to again for a longer time, hence my attraction to books set there.
I found the ending rather abrupt and it left me with more questions. Despite that and the present tense, I enjoyed the read.
April 11, 2014
I really enjoyed this book--the detailed descriptions of life in 16th century Venice were wonderful and the story and characters were believable and interesting. The main character was sympathetic and worth rooting for. Now I want to visit a gondola maker (squero) in Venice, maybe this fall!
I'll be officially reviewing this book on my blog (www.janegs.blogspot.com) as part of its book tour on Monday, May 5 and giving away 1 copy (international). Stop by and enter and you might win a free copy of this wonderful book.
I'll be officially reviewing this book on my blog (www.janegs.blogspot.com) as part of its book tour on Monday, May 5 and giving away 1 copy (international). Stop by and enter and you might win a free copy of this wonderful book.
March 13, 2014
This book was a collection of near-misses. I almost liked it. I almost cared about the characters. I almost felt invested in the story. I almost felt the beat of the world. Instead, I was mostly bored and occasionally frustrated with character inconsistencies. I stayed just engaged enough to keep reading, but I wouldn't recommend it.
May 26, 2019
I’ve been a little frustrated with some of my reading choices lately, so it was a delight to start reading this brightly polished gem tucked near the back of my Kindle library. I loved the sensory descriptions, the portrayal of 16th century life, and Luca’s struggle to find his own way in a world that tends to map out people’s lives before they are even born. Laura Morelli’s novel kept me absorbed from beginning to end.
March 11, 2014
3.5 stars
I requested this book from NetGalley, because I have a vacation planned in Venice this summer, and I knew this would get me in the mood. Not that you ever need to “get in the mood” for a trip to Italy, but there’s still snow outside my window, and I’m trying to forget it’s winter. Also, I have a fondness for Gondolas since my first trip to Venice. I had gotten a book that promised the inside track on all the cool, obscure, non-touristy things to see while I was there. One of these was a trip to a forcola maker. This, if you don’t know it, is the piece that holds the oar on the gondola. It is also, by itself, a work of art, lovingly sculpted with sensuous curves. We went to Venice, guidebook in hand (yes, exactly like the tourists we mocked), and searched for that shop. When the rain began, we ignored it; determined to have an adventure. Finally, at the point of giving up, we sought shelter under the awning of a workshop. My husband pulled out the book, and I turned around. Of course, we were standing in the forcola maker’s shop.
The beauty of that shop has stayed with me for years, and, reading this book brought it all back. The story follows the gondola maker’s son Luca, as he searches for his destiny in 16th century Venice. The skill and craftsmanship it took to fashion the boats is related in lavish detail, and is surprisingly compelling. The care that the builders take is evident, as each laborer takes a responsibility for a part of the whole.
But it is not just a book about boat making. There is plenty of family drama and even a bit of romance. There are opulent parties and threadbare accommodations, all ranges of wealth within the confines of this strange and miraculous city. I especially loved the costume maker, who supplied people with fabulous party clothes on a rental basis. Not sure how much that cost, but it was way ahead of its time.
After leaving his family and a few short-lived positions, Luca takes refuge as a boatman for an artist. This provides an inside look at the position of the artist in this society — a person revered, but really just on the fringes of the wealthy nobles who are his clients. It also gives us a peek into the life of the boatmen, who glide around Venice, communicating in a vast language of gestures that only the boatmen share.
The thing about this story is that, while the characters are an interesting and motley crew, the gondola is truly the living, breathing, heart of this book. The love and craft that is poured into each boat is evident in the detail, and every descriptive phrase brought it to life. I am sure that when I return to Venice this summer, I will see the city in a whole new light. And, even if you aren’t able to take the trip, reading this book will almost make you feel as if you had.
I requested this book from NetGalley, because I have a vacation planned in Venice this summer, and I knew this would get me in the mood. Not that you ever need to “get in the mood” for a trip to Italy, but there’s still snow outside my window, and I’m trying to forget it’s winter. Also, I have a fondness for Gondolas since my first trip to Venice. I had gotten a book that promised the inside track on all the cool, obscure, non-touristy things to see while I was there. One of these was a trip to a forcola maker. This, if you don’t know it, is the piece that holds the oar on the gondola. It is also, by itself, a work of art, lovingly sculpted with sensuous curves. We went to Venice, guidebook in hand (yes, exactly like the tourists we mocked), and searched for that shop. When the rain began, we ignored it; determined to have an adventure. Finally, at the point of giving up, we sought shelter under the awning of a workshop. My husband pulled out the book, and I turned around. Of course, we were standing in the forcola maker’s shop.
The beauty of that shop has stayed with me for years, and, reading this book brought it all back. The story follows the gondola maker’s son Luca, as he searches for his destiny in 16th century Venice. The skill and craftsmanship it took to fashion the boats is related in lavish detail, and is surprisingly compelling. The care that the builders take is evident, as each laborer takes a responsibility for a part of the whole.
But it is not just a book about boat making. There is plenty of family drama and even a bit of romance. There are opulent parties and threadbare accommodations, all ranges of wealth within the confines of this strange and miraculous city. I especially loved the costume maker, who supplied people with fabulous party clothes on a rental basis. Not sure how much that cost, but it was way ahead of its time.
After leaving his family and a few short-lived positions, Luca takes refuge as a boatman for an artist. This provides an inside look at the position of the artist in this society — a person revered, but really just on the fringes of the wealthy nobles who are his clients. It also gives us a peek into the life of the boatmen, who glide around Venice, communicating in a vast language of gestures that only the boatmen share.
The thing about this story is that, while the characters are an interesting and motley crew, the gondola is truly the living, breathing, heart of this book. The love and craft that is poured into each boat is evident in the detail, and every descriptive phrase brought it to life. I am sure that when I return to Venice this summer, I will see the city in a whole new light. And, even if you aren’t able to take the trip, reading this book will almost make you feel as if you had.
October 29, 2017
Meh
Although the descriptions of scenes and objects were rich, the characters were rather flat and the story never really got off the ground. I kept waiting for something to happen, some conflict to arise, but it never did. The 'antagonist' was barely mentioned, and never even met the protagonist, let alone receive any comeuppance. The 'great' love story is never resolved, either. It was rather disappointing all around.
Although the descriptions of scenes and objects were rich, the characters were rather flat and the story never really got off the ground. I kept waiting for something to happen, some conflict to arise, but it never did. The 'antagonist' was barely mentioned, and never even met the protagonist, let alone receive any comeuppance. The 'great' love story is never resolved, either. It was rather disappointing all around.
July 22, 2024
Too many loose ends at the end. We don't know what happened to the girl. We are left guessing at what happened to the boy. I don't like investing time reading a book, getting to know the characters and caring for them, only to be left without a clue to what happened next. The "conclusion " is missing from this book. A good story without an ending.
Want to read
October 11, 2017Free on kindle today.
I have been fascinated with Italian and Venetian crafts when visiting the little shops in Venice. This sounds like a neat little historical read.
I have been fascinated with Italian and Venetian crafts when visiting the little shops in Venice. This sounds like a neat little historical read.
January 19, 2015
Don't you just love it when you come across a book that you want to read again and again? This happened to me with Laura Morelli's The Gondola Maker. As soon as I read the ending, I went back and reread the beginning and started over.
I came across this book through one of those ubiquitous recommendations on Amazon. It seemed a good recommendation, so I added it to my TBR wish list. A couple of weeks later, I went to Laura Morelli's website. I like to find out a bit about the authors whose books I choose to read. She's an art historian and an expert on Italy. I love all things Italian, so I subscribed to her newsletter.
Shortly before Christmas, she sent an offer of receiving a signed paperback copy of The Gondola Maker for only the cost of postage. "Absolutely!" I said. "Sign me up!"
When I read a novel, if I really, really, love it, I slow down in my reading, turning each word over in my mind's eye, delighting in turns of phrase and prose, sometimes rereading sections before moving forward. I read The Gondola Maker slowly, stretching out every stroke of the oar, floating through the Venetian waters in my mind.
The sights, the smells, the senses that Laura Morelli evokes in her book bring the world of Venice in the 1500s to life. The art and craft of the gondola is turned into a living thing in the author's hands, taught and passed down from one generation after another. Watch the TedEd video Laura made about gondolas and their history.
[youtube=http://youtu.be/B5x5CnwQZD4]
Yet, what if someone decided to take a different path than the one ordained through his family history?
This is the story of Luca Vianello, a young man witnessing the burning of a beautifully handmade gondola in the opening scenes of the book. When tragedy strikes Luca's family, he runs. He runs as far away from his family as he can get, changing his name and identity. He meets a woman so far out of his reach, he's a fool to even imagine he might ever be able to have a future with her. He has a stroke of luck that brings him into touch with his past and allows him to engage in his passion and talent in boat making. He finds out that we all make mistakes, but we don't have to let our mistakes ruin us.
The story travels a circular route through the canals of Venice, somehow ending where it began. It has just the right amount of tension to pull you through the waters and the art of the era without making you feel rushed.
I encourage you to add this book to your collection. Then pull up a comfortable chair with soft cushions, and lean back in your own personal felze to enjoy the ride with The Gondola Maker.
I came across this book through one of those ubiquitous recommendations on Amazon. It seemed a good recommendation, so I added it to my TBR wish list. A couple of weeks later, I went to Laura Morelli's website. I like to find out a bit about the authors whose books I choose to read. She's an art historian and an expert on Italy. I love all things Italian, so I subscribed to her newsletter.
Shortly before Christmas, she sent an offer of receiving a signed paperback copy of The Gondola Maker for only the cost of postage. "Absolutely!" I said. "Sign me up!"
When I read a novel, if I really, really, love it, I slow down in my reading, turning each word over in my mind's eye, delighting in turns of phrase and prose, sometimes rereading sections before moving forward. I read The Gondola Maker slowly, stretching out every stroke of the oar, floating through the Venetian waters in my mind.
The sights, the smells, the senses that Laura Morelli evokes in her book bring the world of Venice in the 1500s to life. The art and craft of the gondola is turned into a living thing in the author's hands, taught and passed down from one generation after another. Watch the TedEd video Laura made about gondolas and their history.
[youtube=http://youtu.be/B5x5CnwQZD4]
Yet, what if someone decided to take a different path than the one ordained through his family history?
This is the story of Luca Vianello, a young man witnessing the burning of a beautifully handmade gondola in the opening scenes of the book. When tragedy strikes Luca's family, he runs. He runs as far away from his family as he can get, changing his name and identity. He meets a woman so far out of his reach, he's a fool to even imagine he might ever be able to have a future with her. He has a stroke of luck that brings him into touch with his past and allows him to engage in his passion and talent in boat making. He finds out that we all make mistakes, but we don't have to let our mistakes ruin us.
The story travels a circular route through the canals of Venice, somehow ending where it began. It has just the right amount of tension to pull you through the waters and the art of the era without making you feel rushed.
I encourage you to add this book to your collection. Then pull up a comfortable chair with soft cushions, and lean back in your own personal felze to enjoy the ride with The Gondola Maker.
April 27, 2014
I like this book a lot. The story in the 16the Century Venice was really interesting and I like the main characters and the way they're involved in the story. The writing was beautiful and rich, I learn a lot of things about gondolas and the hierarchy which rules the boatmen and how they're proud of their work and I apreciate all the details about it. It's a book about love, about pride, about redemption and forgiveness and the way everybody should be able to have a second chance in life.
J'ai beaucoup aimé cette histoire qui se passe à Venise au 16ème siècle, dans le milieu des gondoliers et des maitres artisans qui fabriquent les gondoles. L'histoire est riche en détails sur cet artisanat et on imagine sans peine la fierté qu'avaient ces hommes du travail bien fait. Comme la haute société vénitienne, les artisans, les marins, les artistes étaient tous régis par leur propres codes et leur propre hiérarchie et l'auteur a particulièrement réussi à nous décrire les interactions de ce monde qui se côtoie sans jamais vraiment se mélanger. Les personnages sont attachants, particulièrement Luca le personnage principal qui va devoir trouver sa place dans cette société codifiée. Destiné à poursuivre la traditions familiale en prenant la succession de son père, des événements dramatiques vont l'obliger à quitter sa famille et sa vie toute tracée pour faire son propose chemin et se créer son propre avenir. J'ai aimé suivre le destin de ce jeune artisan qui malgré sa pauvreté et sa solitude va suivre ses convictions, ses sentiments et n'abandonnera jamais son amour pour le travail du bois et la fabrication des gondoles. J'ai trouvé particulièrement intéressante la façon dont Laura Morelli réussit à intéresser le lecteur à cet artisanat avec son sens du détail et la richesse du vocabulaire choisi. C'est un roman qui m'a beaucoup plû, que ce soit par l'histoire, l'écriture, la façon dont la ville de Venise est décrite… Je le recommande à tous ceux qui veulent faire une ballade hors du temps à travers cette Venise si mystérieuse et si troublante.
J'ai beaucoup aimé cette histoire qui se passe à Venise au 16ème siècle, dans le milieu des gondoliers et des maitres artisans qui fabriquent les gondoles. L'histoire est riche en détails sur cet artisanat et on imagine sans peine la fierté qu'avaient ces hommes du travail bien fait. Comme la haute société vénitienne, les artisans, les marins, les artistes étaient tous régis par leur propres codes et leur propre hiérarchie et l'auteur a particulièrement réussi à nous décrire les interactions de ce monde qui se côtoie sans jamais vraiment se mélanger. Les personnages sont attachants, particulièrement Luca le personnage principal qui va devoir trouver sa place dans cette société codifiée. Destiné à poursuivre la traditions familiale en prenant la succession de son père, des événements dramatiques vont l'obliger à quitter sa famille et sa vie toute tracée pour faire son propose chemin et se créer son propre avenir. J'ai aimé suivre le destin de ce jeune artisan qui malgré sa pauvreté et sa solitude va suivre ses convictions, ses sentiments et n'abandonnera jamais son amour pour le travail du bois et la fabrication des gondoles. J'ai trouvé particulièrement intéressante la façon dont Laura Morelli réussit à intéresser le lecteur à cet artisanat avec son sens du détail et la richesse du vocabulaire choisi. C'est un roman qui m'a beaucoup plû, que ce soit par l'histoire, l'écriture, la façon dont la ville de Venise est décrite… Je le recommande à tous ceux qui veulent faire une ballade hors du temps à travers cette Venise si mystérieuse et si troublante.
May 17, 2017
A joy to read
Ms.Morelli’s artistically crafted prose made this book a joy to read. None of my senses was left wanting. I tasted the food, smelled the canals, heard the chapel bells, witnessed the crowded canals, and felt the texture of fine woods. I was in Venice.
I rooted for Luca, the protagonist, as he grew into a self-confident young man despite the many cards stacked against him. No matter the difficulties, and there were many, his work ethic and love for his city remained steadfast.
Ms.Morelli’s artistically crafted prose made this book a joy to read. None of my senses was left wanting. I tasted the food, smelled the canals, heard the chapel bells, witnessed the crowded canals, and felt the texture of fine woods. I was in Venice.
I rooted for Luca, the protagonist, as he grew into a self-confident young man despite the many cards stacked against him. No matter the difficulties, and there were many, his work ethic and love for his city remained steadfast.
March 4, 2017
I read this because I am going to Venice soon and I thought it might be interesting. This is a debut novel for Ms. Morelli and reads like it. It is easily read and I liked characters, but most of them were not fleshed out very well. She knows how to plot well and will most likely improve in her later books, however, it's a shallow effort. Nice details about gondola making.
May 7, 2023
The Gondola Maker an historical novel
set in Renaissance Venice seemed rich with promise. The technical details of crafting the beautiful boats was fascinating but the storyline seemed superficial with a very abrupt ending. Disappointing —so much potential.
set in Renaissance Venice seemed rich with promise. The technical details of crafting the beautiful boats was fascinating but the storyline seemed superficial with a very abrupt ending. Disappointing —so much potential.
October 27, 2019
The Gondola Maker by Laura Morelli tells the story of Luca Vianello, heir to a gondola-making business. However, he is a participant to a tragedy that strikes the business and alters the course of his life.
Luca begins to pick up the pieces of his life and becomes a boatman to an established and famed artist named Trevisan. As he reestablishes his life, Luca becomes enchanted by painting of a high society woman that is a client of the artist. He makes a connection with the woman and hopes it will lead to love.
Luca learns his fate will turn in a different direction and what he thought would lead to a second chance turns into something completely different.
Morelli tells an excellent story from the first person perspective of Luca and brought me into the 16th Century Venice world of Gondola Boats, Art, and Culture. The Gondola Maker is not a novel of action and thrills. But, it is a novel of a character and the course of one’s life. I highly recommend this novel for fans of historical fiction and it will be one of my best reads of 2019.
Luca begins to pick up the pieces of his life and becomes a boatman to an established and famed artist named Trevisan. As he reestablishes his life, Luca becomes enchanted by painting of a high society woman that is a client of the artist. He makes a connection with the woman and hopes it will lead to love.
Luca learns his fate will turn in a different direction and what he thought would lead to a second chance turns into something completely different.
Morelli tells an excellent story from the first person perspective of Luca and brought me into the 16th Century Venice world of Gondola Boats, Art, and Culture. The Gondola Maker is not a novel of action and thrills. But, it is a novel of a character and the course of one’s life. I highly recommend this novel for fans of historical fiction and it will be one of my best reads of 2019.
February 8, 2021
This book just didn't get off the ground for me. I do like historical fictions - I wish I could say more about this other than it really was a struggle for me to get thru. Too many other great historical fictions to read - best I can do for now!
May 10, 2021
Learning the history of gondola making was the best part of the book the story part was a bit weak.
April 16, 2024
yeah, I wouldn't have finished this if I hadn't been on a plane
January 3, 2015
See the review on my blog:
http://vanillamoonbooks.blogspot.ro/2...
If you are anything like me, then when you hear the word "gondola", this is the image that comes to mind:
But how many of you know about the art of crafting such a fine boat, how it was a family business, passed from father to son? Or the fact that rich people had their own gondolier, and that this boat was their main means of transport in old Venice, having a special passenger compartiment?
Laura Morelli's "The Gondola Maker" paints a well-documented image of 16th century Venice, the story being centered on Luca Vianello, the heiring son of a gondola-making family. When his moher dies, he blames his father and because of an accident at the boatyard resulting in everything being burned down, he feels he no longer belongs and tries to recreate his life.
This is how Luca becomes from a craftsman, a simple gondolier. But it is very clear that he doesn't belong, he is destined for something more. He draws the attention of a successful painter and becomes his private gondolier. In the meantime, he is working on restoring an awfully damaged gondola of this painter, that was probably crafted by Luca's grandfather.
Luca also becomes obsessed with a young woman, daughter of a patrician by first seing her portrait in the artist's room. While he does strange side jobs for this woman, they fall in love with each other. But they clearly belong to two different worlds, him a gondolier and she a rich woman.
The story is told from the perspective of Luca Vianello, 1st person narrative, but there are also a few short chapters in 3rd person narrative, following "The Councillor", and while they somehow interrupt the flow of the book, the information that they provide is vital for a better understanding of what is happening.
I really enjoyed this book, though I felt it was slow in some parts and I was a little bit confused by the overuse of Italian words. I definitely recommend it for readers who are passionate about History and crafts, but also for the ones like myself, who are in search of something that they don't normally
http://vanillamoonbooks.blogspot.ro/2...
If you are anything like me, then when you hear the word "gondola", this is the image that comes to mind:
But how many of you know about the art of crafting such a fine boat, how it was a family business, passed from father to son? Or the fact that rich people had their own gondolier, and that this boat was their main means of transport in old Venice, having a special passenger compartiment?
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Laura Morelli's "The Gondola Maker" paints a well-documented image of 16th century Venice, the story being centered on Luca Vianello, the heiring son of a gondola-making family. When his moher dies, he blames his father and because of an accident at the boatyard resulting in everything being burned down, he feels he no longer belongs and tries to recreate his life.
This is how Luca becomes from a craftsman, a simple gondolier. But it is very clear that he doesn't belong, he is destined for something more. He draws the attention of a successful painter and becomes his private gondolier. In the meantime, he is working on restoring an awfully damaged gondola of this painter, that was probably crafted by Luca's grandfather.
Luca also becomes obsessed with a young woman, daughter of a patrician by first seing her portrait in the artist's room. While he does strange side jobs for this woman, they fall in love with each other. But they clearly belong to two different worlds, him a gondolier and she a rich woman.
The story is told from the perspective of Luca Vianello, 1st person narrative, but there are also a few short chapters in 3rd person narrative, following "The Councillor", and while they somehow interrupt the flow of the book, the information that they provide is vital for a better understanding of what is happening.
I really enjoyed this book, though I felt it was slow in some parts and I was a little bit confused by the overuse of Italian words. I definitely recommend it for readers who are passionate about History and crafts, but also for the ones like myself, who are in search of something that they don't normally
May 13, 2014
The Gondola Maker by Laura Morelli
ISBN: 978-0989367103
Published: March 3, 2014
Published by: Laura Morelli
Trade paperback, 306 pages
I loved this historical fiction set in the romantic city of Venice of the late1500’s, or as it is frequently referred to in the book, Our Most Serene City.
This is the story of 22-year-old Luca Vianello, told from his POV, heir to an important gondola-making family boatyard. . I liked Luca immediately. In pursuit of work following family disaster, he hires on as a gondolier, delivering everything from wood, wine, art supplies and groceries, to documents and messages. He eventually becomes gondolier/chauffeur for an esteemed artist and that’s when things get interesting as he sees a painting of an unforgettable young woman
The author’s background surfaces frequently in her descriptions of paintings – who else but an art historian uses terms like triptych? There are detailed descriptions of buildings of the day with their massive chimneys and facades of pink, coral and white stones laid in a zigzag fashion. It is written with the eye and language of an art historian.
I found the descriptions of gondolas and the crafting of them fascinating. Privately-owned gondolas are equivalent to cars of today, some ordinary, some beautifully crafted, like works of art, including ornate wood carvings and rich tapestry-upholstered seats and curtains. Think of an Italian Panda car versus a Lexus, Porsche or Tesla. Venetians were just as proud of their gondolas then as are North Americans of their cars now. The author’s detailed research is reflected in the descriptions of the gondolas, as well as certain customs of the day. I didn’t know that public boat burning was considered an act of justice, a punishment for infringing the laws of the Venetian republic.
The author evokes 16th-century Venice for me in the sights, sounds and smells (good and bad) that she describes. I could see the gondolas bobbing up and down in the Grand Canal and the gondoliers using their secret language to manoeuvre their way through the waterways. Italian words and expressions add to the authenticity.
This easy-to-read historical fiction features romance, intrigue, family loyalty, pride and redemption set against the backdrop of Renaissance Italy. I highly recommend this book by a very talented writer.
ISBN: 978-0989367103
Published: March 3, 2014
Published by: Laura Morelli
Trade paperback, 306 pages
I loved this historical fiction set in the romantic city of Venice of the late1500’s, or as it is frequently referred to in the book, Our Most Serene City.
This is the story of 22-year-old Luca Vianello, told from his POV, heir to an important gondola-making family boatyard. . I liked Luca immediately. In pursuit of work following family disaster, he hires on as a gondolier, delivering everything from wood, wine, art supplies and groceries, to documents and messages. He eventually becomes gondolier/chauffeur for an esteemed artist and that’s when things get interesting as he sees a painting of an unforgettable young woman
The author’s background surfaces frequently in her descriptions of paintings – who else but an art historian uses terms like triptych? There are detailed descriptions of buildings of the day with their massive chimneys and facades of pink, coral and white stones laid in a zigzag fashion. It is written with the eye and language of an art historian.
I found the descriptions of gondolas and the crafting of them fascinating. Privately-owned gondolas are equivalent to cars of today, some ordinary, some beautifully crafted, like works of art, including ornate wood carvings and rich tapestry-upholstered seats and curtains. Think of an Italian Panda car versus a Lexus, Porsche or Tesla. Venetians were just as proud of their gondolas then as are North Americans of their cars now. The author’s detailed research is reflected in the descriptions of the gondolas, as well as certain customs of the day. I didn’t know that public boat burning was considered an act of justice, a punishment for infringing the laws of the Venetian republic.
The author evokes 16th-century Venice for me in the sights, sounds and smells (good and bad) that she describes. I could see the gondolas bobbing up and down in the Grand Canal and the gondoliers using their secret language to manoeuvre their way through the waterways. Italian words and expressions add to the authenticity.
This easy-to-read historical fiction features romance, intrigue, family loyalty, pride and redemption set against the backdrop of Renaissance Italy. I highly recommend this book by a very talented writer.
May 29, 2014
Venice, Italy, is at the top of a lot of people's bucket lists -- including mine! I'm a bit of a realist and the way things are going right now, I won't be headed there any time soon. Thankfully, with books like The Gondola Maker by Laura Morelli it's easy to take the trip on the Grand Canal and "see" Venice and all of its rich history.
Luca Vianello is the heir to his family's gondola making business. When the boatyard is unexpectedly and accidentally destroyed, he has no other choice but to flee his home. With the help of some new friends, he's able to pull together a life as a boatman for the painter, Trevisan. When a devious councilman finds out about one of Luca's new friendships, Luca's life will be changed yet again.
The historian in me loved everything about this book, including the author's resource list at the back of the book. Huzzah for the primary resource! Well-researched stories make for the best, most interesting reads. The Gondola Maker is one such novel. I'll admit that usually stories written from the male viewpoint can be hard to relate to and connect with, but I felt the pull of Venice and the canals through Luca's eyes and fell in love. Luca's tale of loss and woe became one of hope and reunion that kept me turning the pages. I was a little frustrated by the lack of thought for his family on Luca's part through the latter half of the story especially since they were so important to him at the beginning of the book. When all is said and done however, The Gondola Maker, is one of the better general market historical fiction stories that I've read in a long time. It was especially good considering it is a self-published novel! I rarely recommend self-published books to readers, but The Gondola Maker is a rare exception. Definitely pick this one up if you have the chance!
~ My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars ~
*I receive complimentary books for review from the publisher. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.*
Luca Vianello is the heir to his family's gondola making business. When the boatyard is unexpectedly and accidentally destroyed, he has no other choice but to flee his home. With the help of some new friends, he's able to pull together a life as a boatman for the painter, Trevisan. When a devious councilman finds out about one of Luca's new friendships, Luca's life will be changed yet again.
The historian in me loved everything about this book, including the author's resource list at the back of the book. Huzzah for the primary resource! Well-researched stories make for the best, most interesting reads. The Gondola Maker is one such novel. I'll admit that usually stories written from the male viewpoint can be hard to relate to and connect with, but I felt the pull of Venice and the canals through Luca's eyes and fell in love. Luca's tale of loss and woe became one of hope and reunion that kept me turning the pages. I was a little frustrated by the lack of thought for his family on Luca's part through the latter half of the story especially since they were so important to him at the beginning of the book. When all is said and done however, The Gondola Maker, is one of the better general market historical fiction stories that I've read in a long time. It was especially good considering it is a self-published novel! I rarely recommend self-published books to readers, but The Gondola Maker is a rare exception. Definitely pick this one up if you have the chance!
~ My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars ~
*I receive complimentary books for review from the publisher. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.*
May 6, 2014
Synopsis
From the author of Made in Italy comes a tale of artisanal tradition and family bonds set in one of the world's most magnificent settings: Renaissance Venice.
When Luca Vianello, the heir to a renowned gondola-making enterprise, experiences an unexpected tragedy in the boatyard, he believes that his destiny lies elsewhere. Soon he finds himself drawn to restore an antique gondola with the dream of taking a girl for a ride. Lovers of historical fiction will appreciate the authentic details of gondola craftsmanship, along with an intimate first-person narrative set against the richly textured backdrop of 16th-century Venice.
Review
The Gondola Maker is a unique novel set in 16th century Venice. Luca Vianello is the eldest son of a gondola maker. Like his father and grandfather before him, Luca is expected to inherit and run the family business. His parents want him to marry a girl in order to form an alliance between their two families. A tragic accident causes Luca to flee, leaving his family and the business behind. As he creates a future for himself, his personal journey becomes compelling and the knowledge of his craft is never out of his mind.
Author Laura Morelli has delved deeply into the Venetian Republic and the historic craft of gondola making, not only describing the process, but also its history, why gondolas are black, why they were burned, and the strict code of the gondoliers with their secret language used to manuever the vessels through the numerous canals and waterways. The story flows beautifully, unimpeded by the details and historical research. It is all the lesser known details about Venice that truly makes this novel stand out among all others. Born with Venetian roots, I truly loved this story because of its compelling characters, vivid descriptions, and that it taught me much that I never knew before about this fascinating city.
From the author of Made in Italy comes a tale of artisanal tradition and family bonds set in one of the world's most magnificent settings: Renaissance Venice.
When Luca Vianello, the heir to a renowned gondola-making enterprise, experiences an unexpected tragedy in the boatyard, he believes that his destiny lies elsewhere. Soon he finds himself drawn to restore an antique gondola with the dream of taking a girl for a ride. Lovers of historical fiction will appreciate the authentic details of gondola craftsmanship, along with an intimate first-person narrative set against the richly textured backdrop of 16th-century Venice.
Review
The Gondola Maker is a unique novel set in 16th century Venice. Luca Vianello is the eldest son of a gondola maker. Like his father and grandfather before him, Luca is expected to inherit and run the family business. His parents want him to marry a girl in order to form an alliance between their two families. A tragic accident causes Luca to flee, leaving his family and the business behind. As he creates a future for himself, his personal journey becomes compelling and the knowledge of his craft is never out of his mind.
Author Laura Morelli has delved deeply into the Venetian Republic and the historic craft of gondola making, not only describing the process, but also its history, why gondolas are black, why they were burned, and the strict code of the gondoliers with their secret language used to manuever the vessels through the numerous canals and waterways. The story flows beautifully, unimpeded by the details and historical research. It is all the lesser known details about Venice that truly makes this novel stand out among all others. Born with Venetian roots, I truly loved this story because of its compelling characters, vivid descriptions, and that it taught me much that I never knew before about this fascinating city.
July 12, 2014
Did I enjoy this book: It was ok in its best moments.
If I hadn’t agreed to read this book to write a review, I’d have stopped reading at chapter 17 – that’s the moment the story went way off the rails for me.
I was reading the story from the first person point of view of a gondola maker. He’s pretty much an every day guy except he caught his father’s boat on fire and ran away from his family. Or at least that’s what I thought the story was about.
In Chapter 17, a new character jumps in the novel to show us his life from the third person point of view. This guy is some pervert who pays men to let him rape their daughters and then paint pictures of them.
It was like fictional whiplash. Where did that come from? And while she had minimal grammatical issues, this already awkward chapter said, “After the fact, she is no longer be marriageable anyway.”
Major unexplained point of view shifts coupled with a typo that makes the sentence nonsensical killed the story right there in Chapter 17.
Since I agreed to review the book I kept reading, but from that point on I was grouchy. A grouchy reviewer notices sentences like the one that began Chapter 25, “Morning sunbeams streak down the canal, imparting radiance to even the most dingy facades, and I feel I can smell the arrival of spring.”
A run-on sentence with two unrelated topics? Now I’m really grouchy.
Fiction is hard. This read more like non-fiction with flowery language. We need dynamic heroes, revolting villains, conflict, conflict, and did I mention conflict?
Would I recommend it: No.
As reviewed by Belinda at Every Free Chance Books.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
http://everyfreechance.com/2014/07/re...
If I hadn’t agreed to read this book to write a review, I’d have stopped reading at chapter 17 – that’s the moment the story went way off the rails for me.
I was reading the story from the first person point of view of a gondola maker. He’s pretty much an every day guy except he caught his father’s boat on fire and ran away from his family. Or at least that’s what I thought the story was about.
In Chapter 17, a new character jumps in the novel to show us his life from the third person point of view. This guy is some pervert who pays men to let him rape their daughters and then paint pictures of them.
It was like fictional whiplash. Where did that come from? And while she had minimal grammatical issues, this already awkward chapter said, “After the fact, she is no longer be marriageable anyway.”
Major unexplained point of view shifts coupled with a typo that makes the sentence nonsensical killed the story right there in Chapter 17.
Since I agreed to review the book I kept reading, but from that point on I was grouchy. A grouchy reviewer notices sentences like the one that began Chapter 25, “Morning sunbeams streak down the canal, imparting radiance to even the most dingy facades, and I feel I can smell the arrival of spring.”
A run-on sentence with two unrelated topics? Now I’m really grouchy.
Fiction is hard. This read more like non-fiction with flowery language. We need dynamic heroes, revolting villains, conflict, conflict, and did I mention conflict?
Would I recommend it: No.
As reviewed by Belinda at Every Free Chance Books.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
http://everyfreechance.com/2014/07/re...
July 13, 2015
I loved this book! I have ridden gondolas in Italy, but never fully appreciated the craft it takes to make one. The main character in this story is a young man who is the eldest son of his father, a famous Venetian gondola maker, as was his grandfather. This young man is destined to inherit his father's business. When his mother dies giving birth to a child, the son is overwrought. He is angered that his father impregnated his mother when she was too old. On the morning of his mother's funeral, the son was beyond furious to find his father in the shop, working on a gondola. The son lashes out at his father, takes his arm and brushes all of his father's papers off a table, causing a massive fire that destroys the gondola workshop. The son runs away, changes his name, and begins his life over in Venice. The reader learns about a famous painter in this story, and reads about the betrayal of Venice gondola sailors and local intrigue concerning patricians and the clergy. This is well written. I read it in a day!
October 2, 2024
The book was a bit slow getting started, but I enjoyed the story. It was good. Not great, but good. A refreshing slow-paced break from other, more intense books. It did have an odd ending, though.
May 1, 2014
This story revolves around a young man whose family are traditional gondola makers. Having been to Venice on several occasions I was curious to learn more about these artists and wasn’t disappointed. The technical and artistic details were fascinating and I was intrigued by the descriptions of what life was like in 16th century Venice for the different artistic guilds.
I liked the main character, Luca, but would have really enjoyed a bit more character development, as well as that of the beautiful women he admires in a painting. The characters were intriguing but seemed a bit one-dimensional.
The book was easy to read and kept my interest until the end.
I liked the main character, Luca, but would have really enjoyed a bit more character development, as well as that of the beautiful women he admires in a painting. The characters were intriguing but seemed a bit one-dimensional.
The book was easy to read and kept my interest until the end.
May 28, 2014
This novel will transport readers to Renaissance Venice with canals and a bustling city life. A bildungsroman fraught with class tensions, THE GONDOLA MAKER is a story of young love. Luca Vianello loves Giuliana Zanchi the moment he sets eyes on her. But as gondolier for local artist Master Trevisan, Luca is not of noble birth and therefore not an acceptable match for Giuliana. However, Giuliana needs privacy for a few errands and Luca is more than happy to be her personal servant.
Read my full review here (as well as my interview with the author): http://www.ivoryowlreviews.blogspot.c...
Read my full review here (as well as my interview with the author): http://www.ivoryowlreviews.blogspot.c...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 229 reviews