I, Juan de Pareja

Listener Reviews

1. 5.0(1)

   Childhood memories

   This so one of the few books I remember loving from my youth. I could remember the story and so I read again now as a 40 year old. it was even more wonderful and enjoyable than I remembered. I can't wait for my kids to read it now.

   Adriana English · April 28, 2024

2. 5.0(1)

   Fantastic and Engaging

   What a wonderful story. I had never hear of Juan de Pareja, but couldn’t put this story down. Excellent narration and a beautiful story based on true facts. What a joy!

   Isabelle Tatum · March 11, 2023

3. 5.0(1)

   Outstanding narration of a beautiful story

   Although this is a fictional biography, it is based on several known historical events in the lives of 17th century Spanish painter Velasquez and his long time slave Juan de Pareja, whom he later freed for Pareja to pursue his own artistic career. The historical figures are made very real and human and accessible. Johanna Ward’s narration is superb, and does not sound at all like “reading”. I found myself dashing to the internet to view the paintings that were described in the story, and it was a much more interesting experience than simply viewing old paintings in an art history class. Thank you for making this time period and these real people come alive for me!

   Leisha · February 24, 2023

4. 5.0(1)

   wonderful story

   Wonderful story well narrated. I would read this again I highly recommend this book a good read

   Hayley Mckinley · February 13, 2023

5. 5.0(1)

   Lovely interpretation of brilliant artists

   I finished this story in two days. I was rapt with the detail and beauty of the countries described that are as much a part of the story as the works of Velasquez and Pareja. Pareja's portrait, seen many years ago, is what intrigued my wanting no needing to learn more about the subject and, subsequently, the artist.

   Brendon Tod Byrd · January 27, 2023

6. 5.0(1)

   Very interesting. Good for adults too!

   A fictional biography of the man behind the famous Velazquez portrait. The performer is excellent, and, as the book is written in the first person, it really feels as though de Pareja is telling you the story of his unique and fascinating life. Though written for children/YA, it is an interesting, enjoyable, and non-taxing listen for adults! Good for a bedtime story.

   Alexa Stewart · March 29, 2022

7. 5.0(1)

   Classic

   If you could sum up I, Juan de Pareja in three words, what would they be?

   If I could sum up this story in 3 words it would be classic, inspiring, and moving.

   Who was your favorite character and why?

   My favorite character was Juan because he always seemed helpful and joyful, even in the most dire situations.

   Have you listened to any of Johanna Ward’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

   No.

   If you were to make a film of this book, what would be the tag line be?

   If I, Juan de Pareja was a film, the tag line should be:"An inspiring moment."

   Any additional comments?

   Listen to it or read the book. It will not be a waste of your time.

   Mercedes French · October 30, 2021

8. 4.0(1)

   Excellent Spanish Art intro, but only somewhat “Woke”

   It was published in 1967, so Juan’s portrayal might be overly accommodating to the institution of black slavery. That said, it’s a quite human book about a clever yet sensitive man trying to make the best of a very unfair life that also has some very silver linings. But if you want an intro to Piquaresque literature, Spanish history, and Siglo de Oro art — it’s crazy good.

   Misty Schott · March 23, 2021