Dýchej za mě – Střihavková Eva (2023)

Based on the true story of a Czech painter whose talent was overshadowed by war ***** "The heir to the throne is dead!" shout the street vendors. The First World War has begun. Many believe it will be quick and short. Even the Nekol sisters do not consider that their lives could change. Milada is picking up her custom-made dress at Arnoštka Roubíčková's salon, while Gusta is painting a picture for an exhibition at the Municipal House, where as a woman she can only display one canvas. Her chosen one, Jareš, has several paintings at the same exhibition, but he will not give up a single nail for Gusta. Yet he knows she paints better than he does, better than all the men in the studio. Augusta Nekolová, one of the most talented painters of her time, has everything her younger sister Milada lacks: energy, beauty, talent, determination, and success. For Milada, however, she is still the closest person for whom she would – when it comes to the worst – even breathe. ***** In the novel Breathe for Me, inspired by an extraordinary sisterly bond, an intimate portrait of two women comes to life against the backdrop of the Great War. Eva Střihavková has managed to capture a powerful testimony not only about a difficult time but also about the unequal status of women, courage, and human solidarity. The author also fulfills Milada's wish after decades, that she be remembered...