
The deep, enduring and complex friendship between Vincent and Theo Van Gogh shaped both brothers’ lives. Theo, recognizing his brother’s artistic genius, fought to bring the painter’s gifts to skeptical art dealers, the public, and other artists. He supported his brother both emotionally and financially, often at the cost of his own peace of mind and personal happiness. Vincent, likely bipolar by today’s understanding, deeply loved Theo and needed his approval. Meticulously researched and drawing on over 600 letters from Vincent to Theo during his lifetime, Heiligman crafts an engaging tale about complex emotions, loyalty, and the passionate commitment to art.
Recognition for Vincent and Theo includes the YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction, the Printz Honor Award, and the Boston Globe-Hom Book Award for Nonfiction. A previous book, Charles and Emma: The Darwins’ Leap of Faith was also nationally celebrated for adult and young adult readers. Heiligman is an Allentown native with fond and vivid memories of school trips to the Allentown Art Museum. She resides in Manhattan with her husband and dog; two grown sons drop by occasionally.