The Merchant of Venus: The Life of Walter Thornton by Nancy Thornton Navarro (Book Review #1941)

What if you discovered, years after your father’s passing, that he was not the man you thought, but a historical figure who left an indelible mark on the modeling, advertising, and beauty industries? That’s exactly what the daughters of Walter Thornton experienced, and it inspired them to chronicle his extraordinary life in *The Merchant of Venus*.

The story began when a brief glimpse of an image from the 2003 film *Seabiscuit* sparked a journey of discovery. Over two decades, the daughters unearthed their father’s forgotten role as a male model and pioneer in the advertising world, including founding the first photographic modeling agency. Thornton’s legacy includes discovering future Hollywood legends like Lauren Bacall and Grace Kelly and creating the iconic WWII pin-up girls.

However, his life wasn’t without its challenges. His remarkable career faced a turning point during the McCarthy Era when accusations nearly overshadowed his contributions. Yet, Thornton’s resilience shines through.

*The Merchant of Venus* paints a vivid portrait of a visionary man and his lasting influence on American culture. This is a captivating tale of triumph, innovation, and the power of family legacy, uncovering a chapter of history you won’t want to miss.

Written by Jeyran Main


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