Chasing Julius II: Michelangelo at Midlife

A traveler's quest for Michelangelo's most troubled work of art, the notorious Tomb of Pope Julius II, is chronicled in Michelangelo at Midlife. This unique blend of art history and light drama has been praised by Kirkus Reviews as "a delightful combination" and by BookLife Reviews as akin to "a trip to Italy: edifying, informative, and unpredictable."

The protagonist, Sam, finds himself at a crossroads in both his artistic ambitions and his personal life. As he traverses Europe in search of inspiration, he becomes fascinated by Michelangelo's struggles to complete his magnum opus. Along the way, Sam forms an unlikely partnership with an Italian woman who helps him uncover the deeper meaning behind the Tomb and the obstacles that hindered Michelangelo's grand vision. Through this journey, Sam experiences his own version of a "midlife crisis."

From Florence to Carrara to Paris and beyond, Sam follows Michelangelo's 40-year saga, from the inception of the project to its culmination in Rome. Along the way, the reader is treated to 180 COLOR illustrations depicting the evolution of the Tomb, adding a visual dimension to the narrative. Author Gene Openshaw, known for his collaborations with travel expert Rick Steves, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the exploration of Michelangelo's life and work.

As the parallel stories of Michelangelo and Sam intersect in Rome, the question arises: can they navigate the challenges of middle age and fulfill their long-held dreams? Kirkus Reviews hails Michelangelo at Midlife as "an entertaining treat" that will appeal to art enthusiasts and adventurous travelers seeking a captivating read.

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