A new (to me) perspective of the woman of the ...
934938
A new (to me) perspective of the woman of the old testament.  I have unknowingly been reading the Bible from a male perspective, even though I am female. This has helped to change that.
3582919
I really enjoyed reading "Bess Truman" by Margaret Truman about one year after reading "Truman" by David McCullough.  I gained more insight and a new perspective of Bess, the wife of Harry Truman.  Because the author is also the daughter you are privileged to gain the perspective from the author as a biographer, historian, first hand witness, daughter, and occasional hindsight to history.  I would recommend this book for anyone who likes history and wants to more of why Bess Truman was the woman she was.
3901524
I wasn't quite sure what to expect from this book, but because I am definitely intrigued by Harriet Tubman, and a fan, I wanted to read it. So far, I am thrilled. This look into the mind and heart of such a phenominal and strong woman is wonderful. It's a book I will read and re-read, and share with others...in fact, they'd better buy their own copies, because I don't think I'll let this one out of my sight!
305391
It's very different writing style...an interesting look into a strong woman's history in a different era.
419575
A new way of looking at royalty. especially the 16th century French. The author built up a sound case for all of Marie's actions..She did everything but stand on her head for the country that eventually relieved her of it!  On to Ahab's wife .......
324315
Her perspective is refreshing even if flawed. There are things in Evangelical Christianity that need addressing. For example: It is wrong to say a person can "be saved" if his only goal is to "escape Hell". We are born again by the Holy Spirit to regain a personal relationship with the Father. While I don't agree with her motives....I applaud her ability to distinguish the genuine from the false. She entered this ruse with the intent of exposing the false and came away with an appreciation she totally didn't expect. So, you believers before you pass too hard a judgement on her realize it is the Holy Spirit that opens eyes and regenerates. The seed has been planted and watered. Leave the results to God. The concluding I received from Gina was when she said she so wanted to believe ( because she missed the fellowship and singing) but just couldn't. I believe God is still molding that piece of clay and HIS will ultimately will be accomplished. Regardless, she has a perspective for us to heed.
3366625
I wasn't sure to be sad at her life, or to be envious of it!  She pummeled thru to make something of her life, and she didn't even Plan on it.  I've since bought her music and love her voice and words.  I laughed thru much of her story, and I think she wanted us to, even tho much of it was something you would not want Your children do go near.  When I then went to YouTube and saw what a beautiful woman she was, I wondered where her self loathing came from.  Go Storm, you made it when so many others in your shoes, would wither up and die.
1505368
I can relate! I appreciate her honesty and open mind. Some of the stuff she explores is new to me, interesting to follow her journey. Sounds like she has an amazing husband. Now I need to go check out coconut kefir and drink two cups a day instead of wine.
2851723
I personally know the author and never, ever would had had any inkling that she lived and experience such a life. It brought me to tears once I found out. To see and speak to her now, one would never know what she had to endure. She is such a beautiful person, physically, mentally and spiritually. And yes, she is still standing and standing tall and strong. To all, both males and females who had to go through this type of life and can boldly inform others about it, you have my utmost respect!!!!
3651896
I'd never heard of her! The story is really interesting and sad. Thankfully, times have changed so that people aren't taken advantage of like they used to be. I'm looking forward to seeing the statues that she posed for when I travel.
2901465
The book, the awakening, seemed to tell me more of something of our past. I long thought that in that time, when the ideas of a woman being equal was an idea that could never be thought of by women. It has never been spoke of casually that a woman did, even in those time; or especially in those times, thought of living their own life. This book was a light shown on someone realizing the way the world worked, loss, hopelessness and at the same time with this a new found growth of a person. It never seemed to be a statement of Mrs. Poniteller that she wanted to change the way society worked, it was more of an opposition, "if this is the way the world works, then i do not wish to be a part of it." Even in her death; or presumed death, she seemed so noble. I loved this book, it's enlightening, and a bit sad, as there seems to be truely no hope for her dreams. It's definitely worth reading.
2046713
This book gives you an opportunity to see Scott Peterson in yet another perspective.  A unique perspective in that he lived with Anne AFTER Laci went missing. She reveals more examples of Scott's inappropriate behavior. Thru her eyes you see another side of Scott. She also gives you more insight into Jackie Peterson, her relationship with Scott and her DISLIKE for Laci.

She offers a new hypothesis as to HOW Laci was murdered.  This book is worth the read if you are interested in the case.
830094
It's very interesting and a different approach to the life of the women that indeed  had an important part in the history of Great Britain and the World
1209008
(this is coming from a 34-year-old female)

I loved this book.  Haven't read the first one, but plan on it.  The book gives a refreshingly different view of a young woman living in this time period (early 19th century).  The main character, Jacy Farber, has a skewed perspective of what a woman can do and should be.  She's a contradiction: she's innocent and worldly.  She has a complete lack of impropriety that makes her stand out in both good and bad ways.  Good (for her)in that she feels that she be able to do these things (like ride a horse in pants)just because she can and not because she is female.  And good because she is setting a precedent for women. The bad: because her actions make others judge her.  She is seen as vulgar, lewd, a bad person, someone who can be beaten, or taken advantage of.  A person of low regard.  And she is frequently misunderstood.  She's a female out of place and doesn't know quite what to do.  History is a very scary time period for women.  There's a lot more to this book, but I continue to think about her continuing struggles and her safety.  She'll make it though, she's plucky.  I just wonder what the author makes of her?
1164598
I want to start off saying that I have tried hard to understand what those who dislike Sarah Palin have against her. After asking many of my friends and coworkers, the majority of the answers are: "she's stupid and unintelligent." When asked why, the majority answers just like the general public "she thinks she can see Russia from her house," "She can't find Africa on a map," "she doesn't read newspapers," etc. It's sad that the media has crucified her to the point that these inaccurate representations of her are all that have influenced the general public.

I wanted to know more about her, so I picked up this book. I am very glad that I did. While memoirs are typically an extremely positive look on the life of the author, this book is not really different. There are a few mistakes she admits to, but doesn't address all that I would have liked to see.

Nonetheless, I really enjoyed reading about her life. I think that she is an extremely great mother and wife. Her children and husband adore her and so does her family and friends. I especially liked the part of the book where she talks about finding out Trig had down syndrome. I admire her stances in politics and that she "sticks to her guns." While she's not perfect, who is? I think her heart is in the right place and she truly stands for what she believes in.

If you read this book to truly look into her life, and not to criticize, you will enjoy it and learn more about this extraordinary woman. Hope you enjoy!
3316177
I was moved beyond comprehension after reading "The Woman Behind The New Deal". Kirstin Downey's presentation of her life gave it character, substance and brought into focus the magnificent talents of a woman who gave so much and yet received so little. The many Federal programs she envisioned and brought to fruition live on with us today,and they are a testament to her memory. The unswerving dedication, loyalty and prescient observations did not warrant the innuendoes and verbal abuses she received from her male colleagues. She had to endure this and much more in a country, at the time, ravaged with sexism, racism and chauvinism.

As I initially began to read the book, I was nonchalant as I read page after page and then, by page 50, I was vividly jolted to learn that this was an awesome woman! For the next three days, I went along with "Frances" on her journey--feeling her pain, languishing in her sorrows, rejoicing in her triumphs. I remember Frances Perkins from past readings but became reacquainted with her in Kirstin's book,which provided a more in-depth history of her achievements and her remarkable  accomplishments.

I think Frances Perkins would be pleased and proud of the manner in which Kirstin Downry portrayed her life.

Bruce E. McLeod, Jr.
Las Vegas, Nevada
3950334
Another  pointedly observant work from a woman who  shows us that worldly experience is not always necessary if you have the intelligence that she had!