Widow Basquiat: A Love Story

The only reason I put this book down as I was reading it was to look up a person or a picture referenced or to play the music mentioned. The writing is exquisitely simple and evocative. The structure is brilliant. I loved every second of this experience.

This book definitely touched my heart as it highlighted the sad truth about trauma bonding and its lasting effects. Unfortunately this was not just their tale but rather a lot of others folks who bonded over trauma and had addictions they couldn’t help each other overcome. A sad but good book.

I bought this book for my husband, and he really enjoyed it. At first, the unusual writing style bothered him, but by 50 pages in, he'd become used to it. He has always been a huge fan of Basquiat's art, but knew little about him as a person. So, he was very disturbed by many of the revelations in this book about Basquiat's true character. For a man who is very respectful of women, the book was almost too much. But ultimately, he came out with a greater understanding of the artist and the art. My husband is a successful artist, so it meant a lot to him to see how Basquiat operated during his depressingly short life.I have not read the book, because honestly the writing style puts me off also. But for a unique look into the artist's tragic life, this book is priceless. And Suzanne's story is one of a woman who really beat the odds. Overall, this book comes highly recommended by Mr. Willis.

I am a fan of Clement's skill of writing about the edges of things. Her other 2 books , like this one, begin with a peep show...at first you are safe as the watcher. Then as you are reading along there comes the blast to your mind, as it opens every pore up, and you realize you have a human responsibility in what she is exposing.All people are asked to fight daily for the right to live ...against all the odds that are placed before them.Which is most necessary, the painter, or the muse...or could it possibly be the Man ?Clement is a writer of space, and since it is only our edges that we get to decide, I for one, am always moved by what she chooses to put into print.

I had read this book before and loved it--- so this time I bought it as a gift. It's such an amazing look at the NYC art scene during that period. All the big artists of that time make an appearance and even Madonna shows up and gets in a chick fight. Ultimately, it's a love story between one of our great American artists and the woman who loved him probably more than he loved himself. I have to admit that I re-read it before I gave it as a gift. Couldn't resist. :) Definitely my favorite Basquiat book. It's small, but packs a punch.

It's been a while since I picked up a book I couldn't put down. This was definitely one of them. It's short, but leaves you with a feeling as if you were there. You know those books that make you feel like you are in a cloud of something else for a short while? The ones that leave you thinking about things when you are done with them? This is one of those. I could imagine myself right along side. it is very well written and a joy to read. I loved it and so did my daughter.

This book is mostly about Suzanne Mallouk, whose nickname was "Widow Basquiat." The chapters are all very short one to two page "pieces" that sound like something that would be read aloud at a standup performance or off Broadway theater. Many of the pieces have a first person feel. Some pieces are not stories at all such as "What Furniture Feels Like: A chair feels like a slap. A table feels like a kick. A lamp feels like a punch. A door feels like a shove, but it can be opened." The later entries where Basquiat comes into the story feel like diary entries of Suzanne's. For more biographical or art-related essays of Basquiat you should seek out one of his art monographs. For Basquiat completists wanting more Basquiat then you will probably already be buying this. But for the casual Basquiat fan I wouldn't recommend this as a way to get to learn about Basquiat.

Such an amazing read, and easily my favorite book! This book allows the reader to learn so much about Basquiat's life at such a personal perspective. If you're an adamant fan of his work, this book is very hard to put down!!

This is a gem of a book. Would recommend any day, to any one! Doesn’t matter if you are into art or Basquiat’s work, it’s a compelling, relatable and heart-breaking love story tour de force and it is definitely worth your while.

What an amazing book I can’t stop reading. It. Truly a great love story.

I heard about this book on a Good Read on radio 4, so thought I’d have a go. I wasn’t disappointed. I liked the way this book was written, it had a poetic feel to it. It was moving, and sad in places and gives a touching account of a beautiful life.

very beautiful story

Must read for all artists.