Kate Bolick is older than 30, has never been married and doesn't have any kids. This doesn't maker her a part of the "vast majority" of married women with children. She's been in a lot of long term relationships, but none that were so important/special/whatever the right word is, that she would give up her independence.
Interwoven with her stories she talks about Neith Boyce, Maeve Brennan, Charlotte Perkins Gilman,
Edna St Vincent Millay and Edith Wharton. Honestly, I don't know much about any of these women (though I have read "The Yellow Wallpaper" which is awesome and creepy and based on Charlotte's real experiences with postpartum depression).
I kind of struggled with this book, and didn't really like it but I can't really put my finger on why. I think it's fine that Kate chooses to be single, so it's not like I'm upset with her for that life choice. I think maybe I feel like the book is trying to be too many things. It's a memoir and it also talks about these other ladies. I think maybe the format is part of my problem, like I want cleaner separation between talking about herself and the other ladies? Maybe I just don't like her writing style?
This is probably the least helpful review in the history of reviews. I guess all I can say is that, for me, parts were kind of interesting (mostly the parts on Charlotte Perkins Gilman) but the rest of it was kind of a struggle to get through. I give it 2 out of 5 stars.
Did anyone else read this book and love it? Or hate it? Or and weirdly indifferent about it and that it makes them feel guilty for some stupid reason? Oh well, not every book you read will be your next new most favorite!
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| I received this book for free in exchange for a fair review from Blogging for Books |
I felt pretty much exactly the same, with not being able to pin down why it just didn't work for me. I thought the personal memoir went on a little long and felt a little privileged, but also didn't love all of the literary hero sections either. I think I was expecting there to be a little more social science involved? I'm not sure.
ReplyDeleteA few cited studies or more backed up statistics would have gone a long way! You're right, I didn't think about it but it was a little privileged and that kind of grated on me too.
DeleteI'm intrigued that you didn't like this book! I've heard so many people on YouTube rave about it. I really like the idea behind it, but I guess it has to be executed well too. Interesting review! (definitely not the worst review in history :P haha)
ReplyDeleteRachel
So many people were raving about it! But then it did just fall short for me. I wish I could pinpoint why, but I'm glad at least I'm not the only one.
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