James Conaway

There are some museums that you want to visit again and again, either because of their spectacular displays or because of the vast knowledge they contain. The Smithsonian museums are among that list because of those things and more. They are some of the most visited, most internationally known buildings, but so many people go through the doors without knowing the amazing story behind how those doors came to open for them. I was among those numbers until I read this book.

James Conaway opened my eyes to more than just the contents of the collections that I had seen as a child. This book takes you back in time to when the idea of the Smithsonian began with a simple donation from James Smithson and continues into the present day. Through this book we can relive what the United States did with the money that funded "the increase and diffusion of knowledge", which is simply spectacular. We could have created just another simple building with just another collection of specimens or pile of stones, but instead, we have the Smithsonian Institution.

Like a perfectly designed display, this book combines text and stunning photography to guide readers through history and draw them in as if they were living it. Don't be afraid to share this history with your children. Even the youngest will enjoy living through the images they see, even if they can't read the full text of the book. If you can't tour the museums, this is the next best thing, and if you can go, read this book before you enter. It will enhance your experience one hundred percent. For my part, I can say that it made me plan another trip to Washington for the single purpose of seeing every building under the name Smithsonian.… (más)

I enjoyed the mystery that this book presented. It kept me interested and engaged with the story. The characters had lots of texture, although I didn't always agree with them and their points of view.

The book also had a nice balance if romance, wit, environmental concerns and mystery. For the wine lover, there is plenty of information and knowledge to enjoy throughout.

Overall nice pacing and a good story for wine lovers!

Reader received a complimentary copy from the publisher through the Good Reads First Reads Program.… (más)