The Signature of All Things

I very much enjoyed The Signature of All Things by Elizabeth Gilbert which is set in 19th century Philadelphia.  Alma Whittaker was born to Henry Whittaker and his wife in 1800.  Henry came from very humble beginnings and became very wealthy after being given a chance by Sir Joseph Banks.  Henry became a renowned botanist with property all over the world.  Therefore Alma was born into a very wealthy household.  The story about Alma's life continues with its ups and downs.  She becomes a renowned botanist herself.  Although these are fictional characters they come in contact with historical figures and places.  The novel is peppered with interesting historical and botanical snippets.  Women would likely enjoy this story more than men.  It is almost 600 pages, but the reader is drawn in to Alma's life and sometimes need to suspend belief, but is an easy read. 4/5