The Mona Lisa Vanishes

The Mona Lisa Vanishes
Nicholas Day
Penguin/Random House, 2023
Grades 3-7
Narrative Non-Fiction

Alternating timelines tell the true story behind the theft of the most famous painting in the world and the life of the artist who painted it. The account of the disappearance of the Mona Lisa is described in detail from the caper itself to the motive of the thief and his eventual capture. Written within the narrative is the modernization of detective work, as new technologies emerge and a branch of the French Police, specializing in forensics and solving mysteries, emerges, changing the face of the profession internationally. We see the Mona Lisa itself rise in fame through the disappearance from a relatively obscure painting in the Louvre to become a celebrity and the most famous painting in the world. Meanwhile, spun throughout is the life of eccentric and brilliant Leonardo da Vinci, an intellectual and artist who often never finished projects as his brain skipped away to something else. The fact that the Mona Lisa was painted in the first place and stood the test of time is a miracle itself. Eventually, the mystery is solved, the painting restored in its rightful place, and the face of the international art and detective worlds are changed forever.

Nicholas Day offers a well-researched and documented account of a historical mystery that not only educates, but reads like a true-crime best-seller. Kids who enjoy non-fiction will be the obvious audience, but everyone will enjoy this story. It is so interesting and exciting that it is hard to put down. Leonardo da Vinci is one of the most intriguing characters in history and makes for an entertaining counterpoint to the equally compelling art heist. The story winds back and forth through history easily and I never became confused as to where and when we were. The real star of the novel is the Mona Lisa herself and her journey to celebrity status is equal to that of King Tut (Day needs to write that story too!). The Mona Lisa theft is one of the most important and notable art heists throughout history that not only changed the face of museum security and detective work--but is simply downright interesting. I appreciate that there is a proper amount of text in this book, giving readers something to chew on instead of simply images. The drawings by Brett Helquist are, as always, excellent, adding to the narrative without distraction. My only complaint is the complete absence of actual photos, including the painting in question. Day rounds out the book with extensive notes and documentation, including an index, making the volume suitable for research purposes. A stellar piece of narrative non-fiction that will be eaten up when placed in the right hands and sure to win accolades.