Nonfiction books are written to present the facts on a wide range of topics, for a wide range of ages. In this column, Erica will recommend new and/or notable nonfiction from the Trove collection!

The Mona Lisa Vanishes by Nicholas Day
All available formats here

You probably know that the Mona Lisa is one of the most famous paintings of all time, but do you know the story behind why? Day has done extensive research and written a fascinating dual narrative of the Mona Lisa being painted and what happened both during and after its infamous theft. Fans of true crime, art history, or thrillers will all find something to love about this amazing book. Written for ages 10-13, but very enjoyable for this adult reader as well.

Check out the book Booklist Reviews called “a completely engaging book” with “narratives in both time periods [that] are enhanced by Day’s clear explanations of events and their contexts, his appreciation for irony, and his skillful storytelling, which is continuously compelling and often brightened by understated humor”; PW Reviews described as a “captivating work of narrative nonfiction” and “a wildly entertaining, thoroughly contextualized look at art, history, and fame”; and Kirkus Reviews praised as “a multistranded yarn skillfully laid out in broad, light brush strokes” and a tale that the author tells “with considerable verve.”