The Van Gogh Cafe by Cynthia Rylant

Cynthia Rylant's The Van Gogh Cafe takes you on a journey out west to Flowers, Kansas - a small town that many venture, stumble upon, or have lived for much of their lives. Each chapter leads into one another leaving the reader wondering how each of the elements have been affected by the Cafe's "magical" ways. As the story continued, the names of the titles encouraged me to predict what would happen next in each transition in the story.

"They notice it and are affected by it and pretty soon word spreads that there is a cafe-the Van Gogh Cafe, that is wonderful, like a dream, like a mystery, like a painting, and you ought to go there, they will say, for you will never forget it. You will want to stay if you can."

While most of the events can be described as "whimsical," there were serious tones and emotions included within each event as it is known as the place where anything is possible.

It is as though the residents of Flowers, as well as passer-by'ers, were drawn to the Cafe because of the notion of such hopeful incidences and spontaneous occurrences that happened there; almost encouraging the sentiments of security, hope, and adventure for all who become drawn to the Van Gogh Cafe.

Based on what I've read by Rylant, I continue to understand repetitive elements that she incorporates within her stories; she leaves readers thinking and contemplating within the text, but other stories provide a more simple yet adventurous plot - yet both styles are highly entertaining and engaging. I do believe that The Van Gogh Cafe is a little bit of both of these.

When examining the cover, both the title and the illustration were puzzling at first; however, I interpreted the following from it:

• The butterflies at the corner of the cover represent the journey west into Kansas, as providing an opportunity for hope and adventure to those who explore and wish for a change in their lives.



• The stars and illuminated cafe portray the feelings of welcoming, comfort, and inspiration to those inside and outside, as reflected onto the sidewalk.



• The title, The Van Gogh Cafe, (to me), reminds me of Van Gogh's Cafe Terrace at Night, and how the bright yellow wall of the building draws your attention to the cafe, and the contrasting dark cityscape on the opposite of the wall - similarly, to The Van Gogh Cafe and its illuminated building, contrasting to the dark, night sky above. Both create a sense of balance between bright yellow and dark - creating a feeling of warmth within the surrounding world.