The Personal Librarian
By Marie Benedict, Victoria Christopher Murray
Penguin Publishing Group
Imagine, a century back, being hired by J.P. Morgan (yes, that J.P. Morgan) as his personal secretary to manage his art acquisitions. Imagine that this person, Bella, unbeknownst to anyone in these high-class circles, is actually Black. That’s the premise behind this work of historical fiction, based upon the real Bella. Pre-Depression Manhattan plays a big role in this story, as does the racism inherent in the society and the times.