Cupboards of Curiosity: Women, Recollection, and Film History : Book Review

"Cupboards of Curiosity" by Amelie Hastie takes readers on a captivating journey into the fascinating world of curiosity cabinets, revealing how these collections of unique objects shape our understanding of culture and knowledge. Hastie challenges traditional notions of valuable information and encourages readers to reexamine their own curiosity.

Divided into three sections, the book offers a comprehensive exploration of curiosity cabinets. The first section delves into the origins and history of these cabinets, providing a well-researched and engaging overview of their development from the Renaissance to present times.

The second section explores the politics of curatorship and the inherent power dynamics in the act of collecting. Hastie prompts readers to question who decides what is collected, displayed, and valued, shedding light on potential biases and exclusions in traditional collections.

In the final section, the author delves into the personal nature of curiosity cabinets, reflecting on her own experiences and encounters with various objects. This section offers a fresh perspective on curiosity as a means of knowledge acquisition beyond formal institutions, inspiring readers to embrace curiosity in their own lives.

Amelie Hastie's writing is introspective and thought-provoking, inviting readers to ponder the significance and value of knowledge. Through engaging analysis and personal anecdotes, she uncovers the hidden stories within seemingly ordinary objects, emphasizing the power of curiosity.

What are readers saying?

"Cupboards of Curiosity" by Amelie Hastie has garnered a range of responses from readers, showcasing a mixed reception. Some readers have lauded the book for its distinct concept and its ability to provoke thought. They appreciate the author's fresh perspective, as she illuminates the hidden wonders of our daily lives by examining ordinary objects and events. These readers find themselves inspired to view their surroundings in a new light, and they particularly commend the author's elegant prose and evocative descriptions, which envelop them in a vivid and immersive reading experience.

On the other hand, some reviewers have struggled to engage with the book, finding it dense and challenging to follow. They feel that the exploration of curiosity sometimes lacks cohesion, making it difficult to grasp the book's overarching narrative. Additionally, a few readers have found the writing style to be excessively abstract and esoteric, leaving them yearning for more relatable examples or anecdotes.

Despite these varying opinions, many readers commend the book for its interdisciplinary nature. They appreciate how the author draws connections between diverse subjects such as art, history, and science, finding this approach intellectually stimulating. They also enjoy how these connections are woven into the exploration of curiosity. However, a few reviewers critique the book for lacking a clear and cohesive structure, which they believe undermines the author's intention to provide a comprehensive exploration of the topic.

In conclusion, "Cupboards of Curiosity" is a divisive book, with some finding it intellectually stimulating and inspiring, while others struggle with its density and lack of focus. If you enjoy thought-provoking and abstract writing that unveils the hidden wonders of everyday life, this book may be worth exploring. However, if you prefer a more straightforward and structured approach, it may not be the best fit. Ultimately, whether this book resonates with readers will depend on their individual preferences and willingness to engage with its unique style and ideas.