The Exposition Universelle of 1889 defined a moment in history, which the French refer to as La Belle Epoque.  It also gave Paris its lasting icon, the 300-meter tower designed and largely financed by Gustave Eiffel.  Most of us know that controversy surrounded its design and construction, and that Eiffel was only permitted to construct the tower with the understanding that it would be removed in 20 years.  Fortunately, the sea change in aesthetics that coincided with this era convinced Parisians to keep what is now an iconic landmark.

Author Jill Jonnes reveals the latticework of personalities, artistic movements, and industrial and political developments that converged with the Exposition.  From Annie Oakley to Paul Gauguin, Buffalo Bill to Thomas Edison, they all came to the City of Light in its grandest moment of aspiration.  Jonnes weaves their headline stories together, much like the criss-crossing beams and girders of the famous Tower itself.

For lovers of France, this is a must read.  For those of us who enjoy learning about those momentous events that characterize the way humanity, as a whole, changes course through the cumulative activities of individuals, Eiffel's Tower is a wonderful trip in time.

Jeff K.

Eiffel's Tower: And the World's Fair Where Buffalo Bill Beguiled Paris, theArtists Quarreled, and Thomas Edison Became a Count (Hardcover)

By Jill Jonnes

$27.95

ISBN-13: 9780670020607
Availability: Special Order - Subject to Availability
Published: Viking Adult, 4/2009

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