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Eyes of the World: Robert Capa, Gerda Taro, and the Invention of Modern Photojournalism
Robert Capa and Gerda Taro were young Jewish refugees, idealistic and in love. As photographers, they set off to capture their generation's most important struggle—the fight against Fascism. Among the first to depict modern warfare, Capa and Taro took powerful photographs of the Spanish Civil War that went straight from the devastation to news magazines. In so doing, they helped give birth to the idea of "bearing witness" through technology to bring home tragedies from across the world.
Packed with dramatic photos, posters, and maps, this compelling book captures the fascinating story of how photojournalism began.
Packed with dramatic photos, posters, and maps, this compelling book captures the fascinating story of how photojournalism began.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published March 28, 2017
25 people are currently reading
770 people want to read
About the author
Marc Aronson
53 books83 followersAronson has won many awards for his books for young readers and has a doctorate in American history. His lectures cover educational topics such as mysteries and controversies in American history, teenagers and their reading, the literary passions of boys, and always leave audiences asking for more.
http://us.macmillan.com/author/marcar...
http://us.macmillan.com/author/marcar...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
May 25, 2021
Such an excellent telling of the two best photojournalist’s stories, pictures and travels in war-torn Spain.
March 9, 2018
The passion raises it to over 4 stars but the odd style of writing lowers it to 3 stars, or a bit more. For some reason, even though this is history that would be today's teens great grandparents' time, it is told in the present tense. Occasionally it produces really awkward and somewhat confusing sentences. The authors do a wonderful job explaining the extremely confusing Spanish Civil War. Capa and Taro and their friend Chim and a few others basically invented photojournalism. Since the photos used are by these pioneers, they are magnificent photos, so that part would certainly be 5 stars. That explains my rating.
I also had trouble getting into the book to begin with. I kept putting it down for more urgent deadlines. Once the book grabbed my interest, it was close to just a few sessions before I had the book finished.
I highly recommend this book for anyone interested in photography. It is also another part of the Jewish story of the 1930s-1940s. Capa and Taro were both Jewish and refugees. Finally, give this to anyone interested in the modern history of Spain, specifically their tragic civil war.
I also had trouble getting into the book to begin with. I kept putting it down for more urgent deadlines. Once the book grabbed my interest, it was close to just a few sessions before I had the book finished.
I highly recommend this book for anyone interested in photography. It is also another part of the Jewish story of the 1930s-1940s. Capa and Taro were both Jewish and refugees. Finally, give this to anyone interested in the modern history of Spain, specifically their tragic civil war.
March 2, 2017
A friend and I have been privileged to have watched some of the creation of this incredible book from the beginning. I was able to read it in very rough draft form, in manuscript and now in galley. The finished book publishes this month. It has been wonderful to watch the ideas turn into book form.
I've long been fascinated by several of the subjects explored in the book: the birth of photojournalism as we have known it in the past 70 years, the brilliant Robert Capa and the story of the D-Day pictures mangled by a technician. But I knew practically nothing about Gerda Taro and her romantic and creative partnership with Capa. And, despite having a history minor, I was always confused by the Spanish Civil War. Which side was who and why wouldn't the US support resistance to facism?
I was excited when I heard about the ideas for the book because one of the many things I admire about the books that Aronson and Budhos write is the seamless way they interweave subjects, issues, themes and events. Reading their books always causes lightbulbs to go off for me and this was no exception! There is so much going on in this book but the authors have provided clear and interesting information, explored fascinating connections and connected dots that lead right to our current time. The story of the evolution of photojournalism couldn't be better done nor could it have come at a better time, as understanding of its history and increasing potential for alterations to images are critically important. Capa and Taro were romantic inspiring individuals that I'm sure will fascinate teens, especially as a new wave of protest and activism seems to be appearing.
And then there is the history of the period. The authors do a terrific job of providing a clear and understandable accounting of a series of very confusing wars and conflicts. I will always be indebted to this book for the helping to finally get the Spanish Civil War straight in my head!
As always, Aronson and Buhos involve the readers in the issues they are exploring, asking the readers to think and decide for themselves, to be involved, to explore the issues further and to challenge conventional thinking. It makes for a demanding but invigorating reading experience and one that occupies the mind long after the book is finished. Another strength and one of my favorites is the rich and fascinating back matter section of the book. This one contains essays on Why We Came to Write This Book, on collaboration, and on some of the controversial events among much more.
Thought provoking, timely, challenging, impeccably documented, fascinating and romantic. Don't miss this.
I've long been fascinated by several of the subjects explored in the book: the birth of photojournalism as we have known it in the past 70 years, the brilliant Robert Capa and the story of the D-Day pictures mangled by a technician. But I knew practically nothing about Gerda Taro and her romantic and creative partnership with Capa. And, despite having a history minor, I was always confused by the Spanish Civil War. Which side was who and why wouldn't the US support resistance to facism?
I was excited when I heard about the ideas for the book because one of the many things I admire about the books that Aronson and Budhos write is the seamless way they interweave subjects, issues, themes and events. Reading their books always causes lightbulbs to go off for me and this was no exception! There is so much going on in this book but the authors have provided clear and interesting information, explored fascinating connections and connected dots that lead right to our current time. The story of the evolution of photojournalism couldn't be better done nor could it have come at a better time, as understanding of its history and increasing potential for alterations to images are critically important. Capa and Taro were romantic inspiring individuals that I'm sure will fascinate teens, especially as a new wave of protest and activism seems to be appearing.
And then there is the history of the period. The authors do a terrific job of providing a clear and understandable accounting of a series of very confusing wars and conflicts. I will always be indebted to this book for the helping to finally get the Spanish Civil War straight in my head!
As always, Aronson and Buhos involve the readers in the issues they are exploring, asking the readers to think and decide for themselves, to be involved, to explore the issues further and to challenge conventional thinking. It makes for a demanding but invigorating reading experience and one that occupies the mind long after the book is finished. Another strength and one of my favorites is the rich and fascinating back matter section of the book. This one contains essays on Why We Came to Write This Book, on collaboration, and on some of the controversial events among much more.
Thought provoking, timely, challenging, impeccably documented, fascinating and romantic. Don't miss this.
September 9, 2019
This was an incredible book--I knew so little about photojournalism, its history, and the Spanish Civil War prior to reading this, and now I feel so much more knowledgeable and cultured! Robert Capa and Gerda Taro were the dream team of the photojournalism world--they weren't afraid to get dirty, to go right into the action, or to take risks. What they saw would leave them not shaking and traumatized, but ready for more. They wanted to show what was going on in Spain to the rest of the world, risks be damned.
Following both of their lives from before they met to after Taro's death, this biography is a perfect coffee-table YA nonfiction book filled with photographs, references, and an extensive timeline and bibliography. It's no wonder why this text won a YALSA award--it's absolutely incredible!
Perhaps my favorite parts of this book was when the authors gave us readers some more context as to what was going on. I'm not a big history buff myself, so having those few extra pages of explanation so as to why such current events were happening and what had caused them were so incredibly helpful. Overall, this is truly an informative, creative, and intriguing book just perfect for those interested in the history of photography or the Spanish Civil War.
Following both of their lives from before they met to after Taro's death, this biography is a perfect coffee-table YA nonfiction book filled with photographs, references, and an extensive timeline and bibliography. It's no wonder why this text won a YALSA award--it's absolutely incredible!
Perhaps my favorite parts of this book was when the authors gave us readers some more context as to what was going on. I'm not a big history buff myself, so having those few extra pages of explanation so as to why such current events were happening and what had caused them were so incredibly helpful. Overall, this is truly an informative, creative, and intriguing book just perfect for those interested in the history of photography or the Spanish Civil War.
December 22, 2024
To prawda, że żyjemy w, niestety, bardzo ciekawych i niespokojnych czasach, gdzie z każdą kolejną wiadomością o lokalnych i światowych konfliktach nasze słowa zawieszają się w eterze, a grunt zdaje się usuwać spod stóp; a mimo wszystko nie ma innego wyjścia, niż brnąć przez to dalej. W okresach i przy okazji takich zdarzeń śmierci, bólu i spiralnych zmian przebłyskuje się zawsze jedna wartość, obraz, którego się nie spodziewamy, a który dochodzi do nas mimo licznych przeszkód: zdjęcie człowieka, dorosłego czy dziecka, jeszcze żyjącego czy w progu śmierci. Czasem służy jako whistleblower, najczęściej jako dowód i świadectwo, nieskończenie jako przypomnienie i nierzadko jako inspiracja i promyk nadziei w półmroku. To genezie tego zjawiska i wykorzystania fotografii przyglądają się w Eyes of the World Marc Aronson i Marina Budhos.
Autorzy przez pryzmat fotografii wojennej przyglądają się szerokiemu zagadnieniu wojny domowej w Hiszpanii, jej kulturowej genezie, nakręcającej się propagandzie, podziałowi państwa i większemu znaczeniu na arenie międzynarodowej, gdyż to ten konflikt okazał się znaczący dla rozwoju dalszych wydarzeń i II wojny światowej; był zarówno zwiastunem, jak i ostatnią deską ratunku. Z tej krótkiej, a treściwej opowieści dowiadujemy się, jak Hiszpania stała się szarą strefą dla ludzkiej moralności, jakie niosła za sobą ofiary, zaognione siły, jak rano została zaszyta w pamięci narodów i jeszcze się nie zagoiła. Dodatkowy ludzki element stanowi tu pasjonująca historia Roberta Capy i Gerdy Taro, tak pięknie uśmiechniętych na okładce książki, nieustraszonych fotografów wojennych, czarujących kochanków i nieuchronnych cierpiętników. Pochłonęła mnie opowieść o tym, jak to z grupą podobnych sobie emigrantów na tle politycznym, wykluczanych w zapalonej lękiem Europie, odnaleźli nowy cel w życiu i siłę, by opowiadać historię, jako świadkowie dać swoje zeznanie. Opowieść o ludzkim cierpieniu, nadziei, walce, miejscach i zdarzeniach, których strzeżemy, połączonych losach dziennikarzy, cywili i artystów niewiarygodnie ujęła mnie za siebie. Świetne jest dla mnie to, jak to zazwyczaj nie jest mi z książkami historycznymi po drodze, a tu miło małej objętości książki ta historia tak do mnie przemówiła, była dla mnie bardzo przystępna. Nie potrzeba było wielkich słów, by bardzo dobrze oddać tamtą sytuację polityczną i wyjaśnić jej genezę, przebieg i konsekwencje. Jestem za to wyjątkowo wdzięczna autorom.
Myślę, że nawet jeśli ktoś nie jest pasjonatem motywów historycznych i politycznych, to w tej lekturze odnajdzie wartość, te słowa i obrazy zapalą coś w jego umyśle, utworzą skojarzenia. Mi samej przez cały czas czytania towarzyszyła myśl, że to wszystko nadal wydaje mi się aktualne i obecne; ślady pracy Capy i Taro widzę w tym, co mnie dzisiaj otacza.
Autorzy przez pryzmat fotografii wojennej przyglądają się szerokiemu zagadnieniu wojny domowej w Hiszpanii, jej kulturowej genezie, nakręcającej się propagandzie, podziałowi państwa i większemu znaczeniu na arenie międzynarodowej, gdyż to ten konflikt okazał się znaczący dla rozwoju dalszych wydarzeń i II wojny światowej; był zarówno zwiastunem, jak i ostatnią deską ratunku. Z tej krótkiej, a treściwej opowieści dowiadujemy się, jak Hiszpania stała się szarą strefą dla ludzkiej moralności, jakie niosła za sobą ofiary, zaognione siły, jak rano została zaszyta w pamięci narodów i jeszcze się nie zagoiła. Dodatkowy ludzki element stanowi tu pasjonująca historia Roberta Capy i Gerdy Taro, tak pięknie uśmiechniętych na okładce książki, nieustraszonych fotografów wojennych, czarujących kochanków i nieuchronnych cierpiętników. Pochłonęła mnie opowieść o tym, jak to z grupą podobnych sobie emigrantów na tle politycznym, wykluczanych w zapalonej lękiem Europie, odnaleźli nowy cel w życiu i siłę, by opowiadać historię, jako świadkowie dać swoje zeznanie. Opowieść o ludzkim cierpieniu, nadziei, walce, miejscach i zdarzeniach, których strzeżemy, połączonych losach dziennikarzy, cywili i artystów niewiarygodnie ujęła mnie za siebie. Świetne jest dla mnie to, jak to zazwyczaj nie jest mi z książkami historycznymi po drodze, a tu miło małej objętości książki ta historia tak do mnie przemówiła, była dla mnie bardzo przystępna. Nie potrzeba było wielkich słów, by bardzo dobrze oddać tamtą sytuację polityczną i wyjaśnić jej genezę, przebieg i konsekwencje. Jestem za to wyjątkowo wdzięczna autorom.
Myślę, że nawet jeśli ktoś nie jest pasjonatem motywów historycznych i politycznych, to w tej lekturze odnajdzie wartość, te słowa i obrazy zapalą coś w jego umyśle, utworzą skojarzenia. Mi samej przez cały czas czytania towarzyszyła myśl, że to wszystko nadal wydaje mi się aktualne i obecne; ślady pracy Capy i Taro widzę w tym, co mnie dzisiaj otacza.
May 10, 2017
In the 1930s, Jewish refugees Gerda Taro and Robert Capa sold their stunning photographs of the Spanish Civil War to the newly founded weekly news magazines and created a new form of journalism. Much like social media today, they used the latest technology to spread images across the world that changed people’s political opinions.
The story is compelling, but sort of lags a bit in the middle. It’s very thoroughly researched. The extensive back matter includes appendixes that explain different political groups of the time (which were confusing even to me), controversies about photos, major characters and sources. There’s also a website with more info. For once the coffee table photo book format makes sense because the true stars of this story are the photographs themselves.
The story illustrates the power of photos to show the humanity behind war. The authors clearly explain the good and bad sides of the revolution, and how there were no real good guys in the situation, especially once Germany and Russia got involved. And yet, the idealism of young people is still important to move society forward.
The end of the book is super depressing because both Taro and Capa died while photographing battles (she died in Spain, he died later in Indochina), and the Spanish Civil War led to WWII. But like the microfilm of Shostakovich’s symphony miraculously finding its way to America in M.T. Anderson’s Symphony for the City of the Dead, a spark of hope emerges when the suitcase filled with Taro and Capa’s film that was lost for 60 years is found in Mexico in 2007. It’s a lesson on the enduring power of photography and the importance of documenting history.
Talking points:
• Great curriculum tie-ins: Appendix C compares current civil war in Syria to Spanish Civil War, Hemingway wrote For Whom the Bell Tolls based on his experiences in the Spanish Civil War, George Orwell and Langston Hughes were also covering the war as journalists, Picasso created his masterpiece Guernica based on a major battle of the war
• Taro was first woman photographer in combat (46)
• The insatiable demand for photos for new weekly news magazines in the 1930s is similar to the constant flood of info on social media today. The news cycle keeps speeding up over time.
The story is compelling, but sort of lags a bit in the middle. It’s very thoroughly researched. The extensive back matter includes appendixes that explain different political groups of the time (which were confusing even to me), controversies about photos, major characters and sources. There’s also a website with more info. For once the coffee table photo book format makes sense because the true stars of this story are the photographs themselves.
The story illustrates the power of photos to show the humanity behind war. The authors clearly explain the good and bad sides of the revolution, and how there were no real good guys in the situation, especially once Germany and Russia got involved. And yet, the idealism of young people is still important to move society forward.
The end of the book is super depressing because both Taro and Capa died while photographing battles (she died in Spain, he died later in Indochina), and the Spanish Civil War led to WWII. But like the microfilm of Shostakovich’s symphony miraculously finding its way to America in M.T. Anderson’s Symphony for the City of the Dead, a spark of hope emerges when the suitcase filled with Taro and Capa’s film that was lost for 60 years is found in Mexico in 2007. It’s a lesson on the enduring power of photography and the importance of documenting history.
Talking points:
• Great curriculum tie-ins: Appendix C compares current civil war in Syria to Spanish Civil War, Hemingway wrote For Whom the Bell Tolls based on his experiences in the Spanish Civil War, George Orwell and Langston Hughes were also covering the war as journalists, Picasso created his masterpiece Guernica based on a major battle of the war
• Taro was first woman photographer in combat (46)
• The insatiable demand for photos for new weekly news magazines in the 1930s is similar to the constant flood of info on social media today. The news cycle keeps speeding up over time.
April 30, 2017
This is cataloged as teen in my library and I'd say its subject matter is aimed around the older teen/high school ages. The first-person style definitely made this read more as a story which appeals to a teen audience, but adults can also absolutely benefit from this story. This is educational about the Spanish Civil War in general, life for civilians during that time, and the incredibly dangerous lengths Robert Capa and Gerda Taro went to in order to photograph modern warfare. The photographs included are incredible and clear, and the style of the book as a whole is very nice: particularly the beginning page of each new chapter that is styled with a film strip on its corners. The appendix and resources in the back are extremely beneficial to all readers. This entire book covers complex subjects that teens may not fully understand but the authors clarify it as much as possible, such as with the line "In 1936, to allow Franco to win was to let Hitler grow stronger. To oppose Franco was to side with the equally murderous Stalin." Overall I think it's a great resource and look forward to recommending it to my local educators.
July 17, 2018
A non-fiction account of two photojournalists and their coverage of wars changed American journalism.
The book begins with a bit of background on both Capa and Taro, but the majority of it focuses on their work during the Spanish Civil War, a period in history that I don't know much about. I always appreciate books written for children (or young adults) that can put a time period into perspective in a succinct yet inclusive way. This is that kind of a book.
It would take the right kind of young adult to read this book - one interested in history or photography perhaps. The idealism of Capa and Taro, however, can speak to any young adult that is striving for a better, changed world.
The book begins with a bit of background on both Capa and Taro, but the majority of it focuses on their work during the Spanish Civil War, a period in history that I don't know much about. I always appreciate books written for children (or young adults) that can put a time period into perspective in a succinct yet inclusive way. This is that kind of a book.
It would take the right kind of young adult to read this book - one interested in history or photography perhaps. The idealism of Capa and Taro, however, can speak to any young adult that is striving for a better, changed world.
January 11, 2018
Eyes of the World: Robert Capa, Gerda Taro, and the Invention of Modern Photojournalism was phenomenal! I'm not usually a big nonfiction reader, but I was captivated in just the first few pages. It has an engaging narrative style that engrosses you in the story of how Robert Capa and Gerda Taro changed the face of photojournalism and made names for themselves with their intense coverage of the Spanish Civil War. Cannot recommend highly enough!
March 31, 2017
A fascination look at the lives of two talented and fearless photographers who great into their roles as they became embroiled in the Spanish Civil War and attempted to bring to the rest of the world a record of the terrible impact of the war on civilians and fighters. The change in how photographs were used and the role of photographers is an important part of this book as is the description of how a woman worked hard to keep her own identity and develop her own talent while in a close personal relationship with an equally talented partner. Lots to consider in this book and discuss.
July 27, 2017
As one would expect of authors Marc Aronson and Marina Budhos, this is a superb collaboration. The authors recount a terrible time in history, the Spanish Civil War, as captured in the extraordinary work of photojournalists Robert Capa and Gerda Taro. A compelling, vividly told, and provocative story of idealism, heroism, tragedy, love, and death, and populated with fascinating characters like Ernest Hemingway, Paul Robeson, George Orwell, and Frederico Garcia Lorca.
June 13, 2021
I'm not quite sure who the intended audience is (was) for this book. The writing style seems to be targeted to YA audiences, especially as it is written in the present tense. However, the stories behind the photos, and the photographers, made this a book worth reading.
March 8, 2018
Great informational book on the best two photojournalists whom were also in love. Captivating pictures of a time of heartbreak and victory! Great pair text for any fiction related to WWII.
November 27, 2020
Three Jews in exile.
Gerda Taro from Germany. Robert Capa from Hungary.
Chim from Poland.
All covering the Civil War in Spain (1936-1939)...its people..its citizen defenders of a democratically elected government..its international brigades.
All three dedicated to the anti fascist struggle and recording the battles with their cameras for viewing by the "outside" world.
Notwithstanding my own melodramatic depiction, "Eyes of the World" text borders on the melodrama and an over wrought--although necessary--exposition of political machinations.
Still, there are insights, a strong sense of humanity and an unapologetic sympathy with anti fascists contained on these pages.
And most importantly....
...the photographs...
Gerda Taro from Germany. Robert Capa from Hungary.
Chim from Poland.
All covering the Civil War in Spain (1936-1939)...its people..its citizen defenders of a democratically elected government..its international brigades.
All three dedicated to the anti fascist struggle and recording the battles with their cameras for viewing by the "outside" world.
Notwithstanding my own melodramatic depiction, "Eyes of the World" text borders on the melodrama and an over wrought--although necessary--exposition of political machinations.
Still, there are insights, a strong sense of humanity and an unapologetic sympathy with anti fascists contained on these pages.
And most importantly....
...the photographs...
February 7, 2019
I learned a great about the Spanish Civil War (yet one more lacunae in my 1970s public school education) and appreciated the focus on Capa and Taro as collaborators mastering a new medium. But I was struck throughout by a mis-match between the book's critical approach to a complex subject and the mid-elementary-school reading level of the writing--which may put off slightly older readers able to wrestle with the significance of the photographers' experience.
November 7, 2017
What an interesting look into the lives of Robert Capa and Gerda Taro. I have always been interested in history and this sold me when I realized that Capa was the photographer who shot the well known D-Day photos. Great look into the events leading up to WWII, Spanish War and the rise of photojournalism. I will say at times it was a little dry but the photos and the story behind the Capa and Taro's romance and sad end was well worth reading.
July 20, 2022
learned a lot! This is a subject about which I knew very little, so I learned so much. And the photographs of both Capa and Taro were impressive. So much information throughout. I read the book in spurts so that I could absorb everything.
December 12, 2017
In the mid 1930s, two young adult Jewish refugees met in Paris, France, André Friedmann and Gerta Pohorylle. André was trying to make a living as a photographer, one of the few jobs open to refugees in Paris. Gerta managed to land a job with a photography clearing house that sells photos to publications. As the two fell in love and started trying to work together to make ends meet, Gerta decided they should remake themselves. With the growing anti-Semitism in Europe, Gerta changes their names to something less Jewish-sounding, Robert Capa and Gerda Taro. Robert starts teaching Gerda how to take photos as well, and the two get an assignment photographing the civil war breaking out in Spain. They are two of the first photographers to use portable and fast photography to capture war photos. At the same time, publications are starting to use photos in new ways. They are using the newer, more lively photos in ways that will sway readers hearts and minds. So this is a story of two refugees trying to survive in a Europe that increasingly seems to be a hostile place for Jews. They are two photographers doing things and photographing things no one has seen before. So it is also the story of how modern photojournalism developed during this time period, largely using photos by Capa and Taro. And it is also the story of the Spanish Civil War and the convoluted mess of politics that was, and how Capa and Taro got wrapped up in that.
I have read numerous books on WWII, but few if any mention the way the Spanish Civil War impacted that. I've never read anything on the Spanish Civil War itself, and wow, what a mess. It started off as the common people and anyone anti-fascist versus Franco and his fascist forces. But then the communists took over the other side and it turned into Franco (being backed not-so-secretly by Hitler and Mussolini) and the anti-fascists (being eventually overtaken by Stalin's goons and communist sentiments). How do you pick sides between the fascists and the communists? It was an eye-opening read in that aspect. Capa and Taro started off covering the war from the side of the anti-fascists and supporting them, and providing pictures of their "good guys." The authors talk about how their photojournalism was half propaganda and half reporting and how the world viewed that. The development of photojournalism was interesting to read about. I really, really liked that the authors had gone to the effort of hunting down numerous photos by Capa and Taro of events they talked about and were able to show readers real photos these two had taken. It's a very well put together book. Capa and Taro were a romantic couple, never got married even though Capa proposed at one point. I love how the authors, who are married, talk in the back of the book about how a creative couple can work together and make each other better. That part is definitely worth a read and has some great advice about married life and what to look for in a life partner. In the end, this story is bittersweet in many ways. I won't totally spoil things, but both Capa and Taro died doing this job they loved. The Spanish Civil War is also a bittersweet story. I really like the authors' notes on that, too, and the way historians have debated the what ifs. He also asks readers some hard questions about Syria and points out many ways the conflict there now is similar to what happened in Spain. Overall, it is a very thought-provoking and informative look at a time and people and an occupation that doesn't get a ton of books.
Notes on content: I don't remember any language issues, but there might have been one or two I forgot in quotes. It is mentioned that Capa and Taro were living and sleeping together, but no sexual details. Other famous people make entrances and met Capa and Taro, and one is Hemingway who unabashedly brought his mistress to Spain while leaving his wife in the States. War injuries and devastation and deaths are mentioned. Some are photographed, but nothing gory appears in pictures. The way Gerda died is pretty horrid though they don't give gory details. The way Robert died is also horrid and some dismemberment is described. True to the time period, drinking and smoking were regular activities of many of the people.
I have read numerous books on WWII, but few if any mention the way the Spanish Civil War impacted that. I've never read anything on the Spanish Civil War itself, and wow, what a mess. It started off as the common people and anyone anti-fascist versus Franco and his fascist forces. But then the communists took over the other side and it turned into Franco (being backed not-so-secretly by Hitler and Mussolini) and the anti-fascists (being eventually overtaken by Stalin's goons and communist sentiments). How do you pick sides between the fascists and the communists? It was an eye-opening read in that aspect. Capa and Taro started off covering the war from the side of the anti-fascists and supporting them, and providing pictures of their "good guys." The authors talk about how their photojournalism was half propaganda and half reporting and how the world viewed that. The development of photojournalism was interesting to read about. I really, really liked that the authors had gone to the effort of hunting down numerous photos by Capa and Taro of events they talked about and were able to show readers real photos these two had taken. It's a very well put together book. Capa and Taro were a romantic couple, never got married even though Capa proposed at one point. I love how the authors, who are married, talk in the back of the book about how a creative couple can work together and make each other better. That part is definitely worth a read and has some great advice about married life and what to look for in a life partner. In the end, this story is bittersweet in many ways. I won't totally spoil things, but both Capa and Taro died doing this job they loved. The Spanish Civil War is also a bittersweet story. I really like the authors' notes on that, too, and the way historians have debated the what ifs. He also asks readers some hard questions about Syria and points out many ways the conflict there now is similar to what happened in Spain. Overall, it is a very thought-provoking and informative look at a time and people and an occupation that doesn't get a ton of books.
Notes on content: I don't remember any language issues, but there might have been one or two I forgot in quotes. It is mentioned that Capa and Taro were living and sleeping together, but no sexual details. Other famous people make entrances and met Capa and Taro, and one is Hemingway who unabashedly brought his mistress to Spain while leaving his wife in the States. War injuries and devastation and deaths are mentioned. Some are photographed, but nothing gory appears in pictures. The way Gerda died is pretty horrid though they don't give gory details. The way Robert died is also horrid and some dismemberment is described. True to the time period, drinking and smoking were regular activities of many of the people.
May 10, 2017
WOW! As another reviewer mentioned, reading this book about two talented photojournalists actually helped me understand more about the Spanish Civil War than I had before. It isn't covered in most history classes today, and when I attended high school, it didn't even get a mention in the texts or class discussions. The conflict of those times serves as a backdrop for the budding careers of Robert Capa and Gerda Taro, among others. Just as these two invented their professional names and supported each other, they were drawn to the fight against fascism in the 1930s, often taking photos of war as it was being waged but also the human effects of war. It's hard not to think of the recent articles and news reports of refugees from war-torn countries while reading this book. It's also impossible not to consider the events that would follow the Spanish Civil War during WWII. In a world where everyone is a photographer and scenes of violence are flashed almost immediately before our eyes, this book might seem a bit dated to some readers. I would disagree, pointing out the care with which the photos were taken, the risks both photographers took, and the influence those images had on readers when they were originally published. If nothing else, this book helps readers learn from the past. But in the hands of these talented writers and careful researchers, it does so much more. It provides readers with a glimpse of two young adults with bright futures, finding their places in the world, taking risks for a cause in which they believe and for the perfect shot, risks that often can only be taken by the young since they don't think about dying and are sure they are bullet proof. I was intrigued to read about the partnership between Capa and Taro as she polished his rough edges and as he eagerly introduced her to his world of photography. Clearly, they lived, loved, and died fiercely, doing what they both loved so much. As if all this weren't enough to recommend it, the book contains a plethora of large black and white photographs, source notes, additional readings, and ruminations on the collaboration between Aronson and Budhos themselves, which were fascinating in their own right. While the use of present tense in this account might be startling at first, it is more likely to make the book appeal to an adolescent audience. Beginning with Capa's experiences on D-Day makes sense since it is those images for which is probably most known. Ah, what a pleasure it was to spend a few hours in the company of these larger-than-life photographers! The book raises many questions about staging photographs, propaganda, and photography as an art form. After all, all good photographs tell a story, and photographers must decide what story they want to tell. Anyone with the slightest interest in history or journalism will want to read this thoughtful account of a particular time and place in world history. Those who love history or tracing how the world has changed over time will definitely want to OWN this book.
February 15, 2018
"This is what will distinguish [Capa's] work and that of his circle in the years to come. As big movements and big ideas sweep the streets, the entire continent of Europe, he homes in on what it means to be human during such momentous times. He is beginning to tell a story. A story in pictures" (p. 33).
Eyes of the World is several stories in one. It tells the story of the birth of modern photojournalism. It relates the romance of Robert Capa and Gerda Taro, two young people caught in up changing times, inventing themselves as they go. It reveals events of the Spanish Revolution, a precursor to World War II. Each story was a fresh one for me.
While I have often admired photography, I had never given much thought to the development of the medium, particularly how it became an indispensable component of journalism. I love the images throughout the book. You cannot open to a two-page spread without finding at least one captivating image. If this is a book about photojournalism, you have to have photos. We find them in abundance.
Though some of the images on the pages were familiar, Capa's and Taro's names were not. The creativity and resilience they showed, the relationship between them, their competitiveness and fierce independence all factored into their development and success as photographers. What an amazing and inspired partnership. Also remarkable is how powerful Taro was. She developed her own style, her own perspective. This was an equal partnership.
Then there's the Spanish Civil War. I never really learned about it in school. Sure, I knew that Langston Hughes, George Orwell, and Ernest Hemmingway were each associated with that period, but this book shed a whole new light on the time of turmoil and the ensuing conflicts in Europe.
I would be remiss if I failed to address the remarkable extra material - the appendices, cast of characters (both individuals and groups), time line, and explanation of how the authors came to write the book.
And oh, the photographs! "Capa and Taro gave us a visual language for understanding the catastrophic changes, the disasters and tragedies, of the first half of the twentieth century. No one had seen anything like this, not brought back such a record of witnessing. ... These images have a way of piercing through the fog of rhetoric and cheery exhortations. ... They gave birth to the visual world we live in now" (p. 244).
Eyes of the World is several stories in one. It tells the story of the birth of modern photojournalism. It relates the romance of Robert Capa and Gerda Taro, two young people caught in up changing times, inventing themselves as they go. It reveals events of the Spanish Revolution, a precursor to World War II. Each story was a fresh one for me.
While I have often admired photography, I had never given much thought to the development of the medium, particularly how it became an indispensable component of journalism. I love the images throughout the book. You cannot open to a two-page spread without finding at least one captivating image. If this is a book about photojournalism, you have to have photos. We find them in abundance.
Though some of the images on the pages were familiar, Capa's and Taro's names were not. The creativity and resilience they showed, the relationship between them, their competitiveness and fierce independence all factored into their development and success as photographers. What an amazing and inspired partnership. Also remarkable is how powerful Taro was. She developed her own style, her own perspective. This was an equal partnership.
Then there's the Spanish Civil War. I never really learned about it in school. Sure, I knew that Langston Hughes, George Orwell, and Ernest Hemmingway were each associated with that period, but this book shed a whole new light on the time of turmoil and the ensuing conflicts in Europe.
I would be remiss if I failed to address the remarkable extra material - the appendices, cast of characters (both individuals and groups), time line, and explanation of how the authors came to write the book.
And oh, the photographs! "Capa and Taro gave us a visual language for understanding the catastrophic changes, the disasters and tragedies, of the first half of the twentieth century. No one had seen anything like this, not brought back such a record of witnessing. ... These images have a way of piercing through the fog of rhetoric and cheery exhortations. ... They gave birth to the visual world we live in now" (p. 244).
October 17, 2017
It might be a little long for the average nonfiction browser, but wow, what a story. For journalism classes, world history, AP class reference.
October 15, 2017
Loved that this read like a personal story but was jam packed with interesting information. The story blends the history of film along with historical facts. A good read.
March 21, 2018
Aronson, Marc and Marina Budhos Eyes of the World : Robert Capa, Gerda Taro and the invention of Modern Photojournalism, 294 pgs. NON-FICTION. Henry Holt (Macmillan), 2017. $23. Language: G (0 swears); Mature Content: G; Violence: PG.
Hungarian Andre Friedmann and German Gerta Pohorylle met in Paris in the mid-1930’s. They changed their names to Robert Capa and Gerda Taro, to help hide their cultural background, and to get a contract with a magazine. They headed to Spain to cover the Spanish Civil War as photojournalists. On their way to the front, they photographed the people of Spain, many of them peasants still living in what looks like the middle ages, using ancient tools to farm the way their ancestors did. Interspersed among the chapters about Capa and Taro are “interludes” which give the reader background on the wars, or the style of the photo magazines (like Life). Their photo styles are different, yet complementary. Covering the war with literary giants like George Orwell and Ernest Hemingway, in Spain and in France, Always courageous, Capa said “If your pictures aren’t good enough, you aren’t close enough” An interesting look into the beginnings of photojournalism and the Spanish Civil War - and how it relates to WWII (fascinating).
I was impressed with the courage and determination of Capa and Taro in getting these historic pictures, of both the fighting, the aftermath and the people affected. There are large captioned pictures on almost every page - by Capa and Taro - there are not a lot of Capa and Taro. Lots of additional resources: 3 appendices, (about some of the controversies, so as not to muddle the text?); a “Cast of Characters” explaining who all of these famous people are, including political groups, factions and who was on what side. There is a time line, an author statement, acknowledgements, sources, notes, a bibliography, web resources and an index. A bit of a heavy read for middle school, I would recommend it for High School.
HS - ADVISABLE Lisa Librarian
https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2018...
Hungarian Andre Friedmann and German Gerta Pohorylle met in Paris in the mid-1930’s. They changed their names to Robert Capa and Gerda Taro, to help hide their cultural background, and to get a contract with a magazine. They headed to Spain to cover the Spanish Civil War as photojournalists. On their way to the front, they photographed the people of Spain, many of them peasants still living in what looks like the middle ages, using ancient tools to farm the way their ancestors did. Interspersed among the chapters about Capa and Taro are “interludes” which give the reader background on the wars, or the style of the photo magazines (like Life). Their photo styles are different, yet complementary. Covering the war with literary giants like George Orwell and Ernest Hemingway, in Spain and in France, Always courageous, Capa said “If your pictures aren’t good enough, you aren’t close enough” An interesting look into the beginnings of photojournalism and the Spanish Civil War - and how it relates to WWII (fascinating).
I was impressed with the courage and determination of Capa and Taro in getting these historic pictures, of both the fighting, the aftermath and the people affected. There are large captioned pictures on almost every page - by Capa and Taro - there are not a lot of Capa and Taro. Lots of additional resources: 3 appendices, (about some of the controversies, so as not to muddle the text?); a “Cast of Characters” explaining who all of these famous people are, including political groups, factions and who was on what side. There is a time line, an author statement, acknowledgements, sources, notes, a bibliography, web resources and an index. A bit of a heavy read for middle school, I would recommend it for High School.
HS - ADVISABLE Lisa Librarian
https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2018...
October 12, 2017
Excellent if not a bit too lengthy. The book with all of its b/w photos and heavy text is heavy in weight, too. Has a detailed appendix, epilogue, end notes, image credits. Students may not know much about the Spanish Civil War but will be interested in how photojournalism got started.
February 19, 2018
Hungarian Andre Friedmann and German Gerta Pohorylle met in Paris in the mid-1930’s. They changed their names to Robert Capa and Gerda Taro, to help hide their cultural background, and to get a contract with a magazine. They headed to Spain to cover the Spanish Civil War as photojournalists. On their way to the front, they photographed the people of Spain, many of them peasants still living in what looks like the middle ages, using ancient tools to farm the way their ancestors did. Interspersed among the chapters about Capa and Taro are “interludes” which give the reader background on the wars, or the style of the photo magazines (like Life). Their photo styles are different, yet complementary. Covering the war with literary giants like George Orwell and Ernest Hemingway, in Spain and in France, Always courageous, Capa said “If your pictures aren’t good enough, you aren’t close enough” An interesting look into the beginnings of photojournalism and the Spanish Civil War - and how it relates to WWII (fascinating).
I was impressed with the courage and determination of Capa and Taro in getting these historic pictures, of both the fighting, the aftermath and the people affected. There are large captioned pictures on almost every page - by Capa and Taro - there are not a lot of Capa and Taro. Lots of additional resources: 3 appendices, (about some of the controversies, so as not to muddle the text?); a “Cast of Characters” explaining who all of these famous people are, including political groups, factions and who was on what side. There is a time line, an author statement, acknowledgements, sources, notes, a bibliography, web resources and an index. A bit of a heavy read for middle school, I would recommend it for High School or adults.
cross posted to http://kissthebook.blogspot.com CHECK IT OUT!
I was impressed with the courage and determination of Capa and Taro in getting these historic pictures, of both the fighting, the aftermath and the people affected. There are large captioned pictures on almost every page - by Capa and Taro - there are not a lot of Capa and Taro. Lots of additional resources: 3 appendices, (about some of the controversies, so as not to muddle the text?); a “Cast of Characters” explaining who all of these famous people are, including political groups, factions and who was on what side. There is a time line, an author statement, acknowledgements, sources, notes, a bibliography, web resources and an index. A bit of a heavy read for middle school, I would recommend it for High School or adults.
cross posted to http://kissthebook.blogspot.com CHECK IT OUT!
April 8, 2018
Amazing nonfiction book about the Spanish Civil War and the dawn of photojournalism, told through the life stories of the two important photographers who in documenting the former invented the latter. Also a love story and a book about the beauty of collaboration. Fantastic! I studied photography a little in college, but I am sad that I'd never heard of Gerda Taro before. Perhaps I'd just forgotten what I once knew about her, but it can't have been much because everything I read in this book was new to me. It is nicely designed, with many many photographs as well as magazine layouts showing Capa and Taro's work and how the new style of photojournalism began to be used to strikingly report on world news. I also hadn't known much about the Spanish Civil War, apparently, other than a few hazy notions of Hemingway and Guernica, and somebody named Franco, so this book was fascinating and quite eye-opening in its clear explanations of all of the nuanced politics and movements involved. I especially appreciated the appendices (I know, only true history geeks and academics read the appendices! But trust me, these are *interesting*!) and authors' note about why they came to write the book. When I learned that Aronson and Budhos are married, it made the story so much deeper for me, and accentuated the passion and tragedy of Capa and Taro's relationship. I picked up this book wanting to read more about what I thought I'd already known something about, photojournalism, but ended up discovering so much more about World War II history and Spanish history, as well as feeling very impressed by this dynamic artistic couple, who lived so vibrantly and daringly and paved the way for future photojournalists to share important stories with the world.
March 13, 2017
Robert and Cornell Capa (along with their mother) are buried in my Meeting's cemetery, and I've been involved in creating some signage explaining who they were and why they're there. So a book about him and his contribution to our understanding of war? Yes, please. The Spanish Civil War is one of those "I think I understand it... but it's incredibly confusing" events, and this book does a decent job of explaining the various factions and what happened. For that, two stars.
However the book itself? So problematic. Starting with, why present tense? It's an odd choice for non-fiction about the past. The framing device of D-Day doesn't work well and could easily have been done without (although the part about Capa's post-Spanish Civil War career needed to be told). Some people, like Capa's mentor, are paid short shrift, while others are hinted at (there's a couple mentioned on page 180 that are never named, but there's a hint that these are Important People). And Appendix C, the one with the comparison to the Syrian Civil War? My head hurt. There were other things that were problems that might be changed by publication, like failing to credit the photos on each page (were they Capas? Taros? someone else?). I could go on, but then I'd need another drink.
ARC provided by publisher.
However the book itself? So problematic. Starting with, why present tense? It's an odd choice for non-fiction about the past. The framing device of D-Day doesn't work well and could easily have been done without (although the part about Capa's post-Spanish Civil War career needed to be told). Some people, like Capa's mentor, are paid short shrift, while others are hinted at (there's a couple mentioned on page 180 that are never named, but there's a hint that these are Important People). And Appendix C, the one with the comparison to the Syrian Civil War? My head hurt. There were other things that were problems that might be changed by publication, like failing to credit the photos on each page (were they Capas? Taros? someone else?). I could go on, but then I'd need another drink.
ARC provided by publisher.
March 8, 2018
I didn't realize until reading the afterward(s) that this book was the product of the same couple who wrote /Sugar Changed the World/. Knowing that, I can see some of the similarities--moralizing still a bit intact, but definitely not insufferable this time--but mostly I'm surprised and happy at how much /more/ I liked this one.
One of my favorite aspects is not only did I get the stories of Robert Capa and Gerda Taro and their photojournalism, but the conflicts that this photojournalism was born in. I know next to nothing about the Spanish Civil War--partly because I'm not well-versed in twentieth century history, but also, I'm sure, because it is swallowed and overshadowed by World War II.
So even though I knew some of the players--fascism, communism, the Soviet Union and Stalin, Germany and Hitler--this story was always breaking new ground for me, whether focusing on its human stars, their photos, or the conflicts they photographed. Also, the way the book comes to a close is breathtaking: exactly the kind of small pieces of history, lost and found, that I love to hear about.
Fascinating all around, well-presented (superb, large photographs) and organized, and told with great passion and empathy.
One of my favorite aspects is not only did I get the stories of Robert Capa and Gerda Taro and their photojournalism, but the conflicts that this photojournalism was born in. I know next to nothing about the Spanish Civil War--partly because I'm not well-versed in twentieth century history, but also, I'm sure, because it is swallowed and overshadowed by World War II.
So even though I knew some of the players--fascism, communism, the Soviet Union and Stalin, Germany and Hitler--this story was always breaking new ground for me, whether focusing on its human stars, their photos, or the conflicts they photographed. Also, the way the book comes to a close is breathtaking: exactly the kind of small pieces of history, lost and found, that I love to hear about.
Fascinating all around, well-presented (superb, large photographs) and organized, and told with great passion and empathy.
August 20, 2018
Eyes of the World: Robert Capa, Gerda Taro, and the Invention of Modern Photojournalism by Marc Aronson and Marina Budhos is a rather strange dual biography. It’s written at a middle school reading level and is, shall we say, “sanitized” in describing the lifestyles & relationship of Taro and Capa. It’s also written in the present tense. At first I thought it might be a poor translation but there is no indication that this is a translated work. In my opinion the content is also flawed by the liberties they take in describing the inner-most thoughts of the subjects. Here’s a taste: “She and Capa are like twins, intuitively connected, bonded even in what they notice.” (p. 52) or “Capa comes to the exposition, but his mind is on another part of the world.” (p. 176)
These shortcomings are unfortunate because, otherwise, the book tells a story worth telling and, moreover, is very well illustrated with an abundance of photographs that relate closely to the text.
I don’t regret reading it; but I would be reluctant to recommend this book to anyone who isn’t already familiar with Robert Capa and Gerda Taro. In my opinion, the more you already know about these two pioneers in conflict photojournalism, the more you can appreciate this book.
These shortcomings are unfortunate because, otherwise, the book tells a story worth telling and, moreover, is very well illustrated with an abundance of photographs that relate closely to the text.
I don’t regret reading it; but I would be reluctant to recommend this book to anyone who isn’t already familiar with Robert Capa and Gerda Taro. In my opinion, the more you already know about these two pioneers in conflict photojournalism, the more you can appreciate this book.
November 17, 2017
Thank you Chicago Public Library. As I searched for another title (fiction), I somehow came across this interesting work. Already slightly familiar with Capa and Taro peripherally via their work on the Spanish War, I was interested to see how their life and work was seen today.
Unfortunately, neither was much for keeping a journal or having extensive correspondence, so the information is rather bare. Their lives were much more about their work and their work broke new ground for realism and being in the moment.
The pictures are fantastic and I will be investigating the 4000+ images found recently in Mexico. As the Spanish War concluded, Mexico offered amnesty to many and the images Capa entrusted to Chim post-D-day made their way via that route where they were forgotten. I will be checking ICP and Magnum to see what's available to view.
The author presents the slight material well and lets the pictures speak the most.
Unfortunately, neither was much for keeping a journal or having extensive correspondence, so the information is rather bare. Their lives were much more about their work and their work broke new ground for realism and being in the moment.
The pictures are fantastic and I will be investigating the 4000+ images found recently in Mexico. As the Spanish War concluded, Mexico offered amnesty to many and the images Capa entrusted to Chim post-D-day made their way via that route where they were forgotten. I will be checking ICP and Magnum to see what's available to view.
The author presents the slight material well and lets the pictures speak the most.
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