THE STORY OF ART WITHOUT MEN

British art historian Katy Hessel's enthusiasm for her subject is evident. Drawn from her Instagram, @thegreatwomenartists, this audiobook is a global compendium of female artists spanning the years 1500 to the present. A variety of art forms are included besides painting, drawing, and sculpture, such as quilting and weaving. Hessel has a lot of ground to cover, and she narrates in a rushed efficient manner, as if in a lecture hall. More thoughtful pacing would have made the text easier to follow. Perhaps the print version, with its 300 color illustrations, glossary, and time line would be a better choice, rather than audio. The subject is an important one, and Hessel has much to offer. J.E.S. © AudioFile 2023, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2023]