Book Description
“In many ways, I was an independent woman,” writes Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist Alice Steinbach. “For years I’d made my own choices, paid my own bills, shoveled my own snow.” But somehow she had become dependent in quite another way. “I had fallen into the habit . . . of defining myself in terms of who I was to other people and what they expected of me.” But who was she away from the people and things that defined her? In this exquisite book, Steinbach searches for the answer to this question in some of the most beautiful and exciting places in the world: Paris, where she finds a soul mate; Oxford, where she takes a course on the English village; Milan, where she befriends a young woman about to be married. Beautifully illustrated with postcards from her journeys, this revealing and witty book transports you into a fascinating inner and outer journey, an unforgettable voyage of discovery.
Customer Reviews:
A Remarkable Memoir.......2007-07-05
An absolute, unequivocal 10.
What a remarkable memoir - what a remarkable woman !! One of my favorite observations is that "being alone" is different from "being on my own".
Oh how I wish I had the adventurous spirit and spontaneity of Alice Steinbach. I wish I could morph into an independent woman, perfectly at ease travelling around Europe and Great Britain on my own. I so admire this woman: everything from her talent for falling easily into friendships and conversations with the strangers she met on her travels, to her poetic and thoughtful observations of the world around her.
This is wonderful: "...beauty and history that hangs like a bridal veil over the city of Paris" ; and this poignant statement, "...people and places and cats that were lost to me. I had been thinking a lot about that lately--the inevitability of separation, in one form or another, from all those we love and, in a different way, from ourselves as we were in the past." I love Steinbach's ability to rediscover and to celebrate who she is now rather than mourning who she was at 25.
This quote from Frey's writing (my ignorance of this writer is sending me to the Web for a search), seemed to be the grand finale to all of Steinbach's remarks about learning not to let life beat her down, to continue to move forward: "The unexpectedness of life, waiting around every corner, catches even wise women unawares.... to avoid corners altogether is, after all, to refuse to live life". I wish I had read this book about 30 years ago.
An inspirational read!.......2007-03-25
I was impressed with the courage of the writer and her willingness to share her journey into the unknown and into her own heart. A great one!
empty.......2006-08-17
Although the project that founds the book is very seducive (the reason why you might be convinced by friend's reviews and impressed by Pulitzer and other readers's ratings), this book is very disappointing. The lady is simply describing how she is pleased to see that cities can be beautiful; she makes friends by discussing paintings in a way that would send you to bed (to sleep), and simply describes the succession of her ordinary discoveries, whithout what was a awaited from such an endeavour: a specific vision of the world, be it simple, but at least original; a way to look at human beings. For example, a Parisian would tell you that her approach to Paris is that of any 1960's tourist guide, suprisingly obsolete; that may be nice... but does not deserve a book. Nicolas Bouvier, the Swiss writer, is immensely worthier.
everyone's dream.......2005-12-24
This book was wonderful, i read it as slow as possible, savoring every word. I liked how down to earth Ms. Steinbach appeared, she never talked down to the reader. there were many times when the author made fun of herself and the situations she put herself in, just like any normal person would do. i have traveled to europe five times but have never gone with the intention to learn a new skill, take a class etc. This book was so inspiring to me to travel in a new way, to go with my mom or a friend instead of the whole family. I really loved this book and read the sequel too. I hope Ms. Steinbach continues to write about future adventures. The chapters flow from one adventure to the next and my only complaint were that I wanted even more details of everything, just couldn't get enough!
Carpe Diem.......2005-11-26
Who doesn't dream of quitting her job and traveling the world? Alice Steinbach wangles a leave of absence from her job and goes to Europe -- the dream with training wheels. Even though she has the security of knowing her home and job are waiting for her and she goes to countries that are comfortably strange, it is still a big leap for her. She makes the most of it and tells a great story.
Steinbach seems to make friends everywhere she goes. She travels with the attitude of a college student backpacking through Europe, hooking up with temporary friends at each stop. She treats her affair with Naohiro like a summer romance, intense, but sure to be temporary. Sometimes you forget that she is a middle-aged woman with two grown sons and a responsible career back home.
And that is the point. She wants to see who she is when the responsibilities of adulthood are stripped away. Is the young woman who wasn't afraid to take chances still there somewhere? Who is Alice Steinbach when she is not defined as "mother" and "reporter"? In nine months of travels through Paris, Britain, and Italy, she gradually sheds her inhibitions and fears, and gets reacquainted with living for the day.
Without Reservations is an upbeat, sometimes bittersweet, narrative of what feels like a prelude to a bigger leap.
Amazon.com
A Journey of One's Own was written for women who long to travel but are a little hesitant about facing the open road alone. Author Thalia Zepatos has traveled by camel across the Thar Desert, hitchhiked along the Malay Peninsula, and trekked the high country of Nepal, and in this book she offers advice, encouragement, and wisdom to the women she hopes will follow in her footsteps. Zepatos recognizes that female travelers face challenges that their male counterparts seldom experience: sexual harassment, safety and health concerns, and cultural attitudes are a real part of any woman's travel experience. She also believes that women experience travel differently from men, and she sees the "global sisterhood of women" as a positive, ready-made opportunity for women to interact with whatever culture in which they find themselves.
Travel essays by women alternate with chapters on practical matters such as traveling alone, finding a compatible travel companion, planning your itinerary, and staying safe and healthy; as an added bonus, there's a list of resources that covers a variety of topics, from travel books and magazines to Internet service providers and socially/environmentally responsible travel opportunities. So, stop dreaming and start planning that fantasy trip with A Journey of One's Own.
Book Description
Originally published in 1992, with a second edition in 1996, A Journey of One's Own has sold over68,000 copies. Praised by travel experts across the spectrum, from Glamour to The Women's Review of Books, from The Whole Earth Catalog to American Express, U.S. News and World Report, and Parade, and written about in over forty major dailies, A Journey of One's Own has become an established title in the travel book category.
Although geared to women and including much information specific to women (how to deal with sexual harassment, for example) A Journey of One's Own has also found an audience with men who value the extensive information and excellent advice that is not gender-specific.
The third edition sports a livelier and more compact text design, a smaller format, and shorter page count. The author has thoroughly updated the material and added new sections on health, safety, and traveling during times of international upheaval.
Yet, the basic structure has been maintained: excerpts from many women's travel stories are interlaced with -detailed advice on practical matters (how to stay healthy, be safe, avoid theft, etc.). And the author's own stories, which reflect on political and cultural explorations from her extensive travels, are engaging and thoughtful, and add depth to discussion of issues such as getting acquainted with new cultures, accepting hospitality, bargaining, and communicating without language.
"Thalia Zepatos is . . . teacher, spokeswoman, and heroine of sorts to a generation of travelers, both women and men, who understand travel as more than the periodic recreational migration that our commercial culture promotes."-Seattle Times
"Superlatives generally make us suspicious, but we must say: This is THE best women's travel resource we've seen, ever. . . . It's authoritative; it's supportive; it's amusing; it really does have it all."-New York Daily News
Thalia Zepatos is the author of Adventures in Good Company and Women for a Change: A Grassroots Guide to Activism and Politics.
Customer Reviews:
good practical advice.......2007-06-27
This book is outstanding. It is about real travel and interaction, not the 9 countries in 13 days type thing. It is very practical, addressing the real problems faced by the solo woman traveler (harassment, cultural attitudes, personal safety issues). It also has the standard advice of what to pack,etc. I appreciate the special aadvice for seeking interaction with other cultures by actually living and working among the local population......travel is much more than what you can see thru the tour bus window.
intelligent travel advice.......2005-10-19
At last an intelligent, informative, approach to spending time in other countries. Simple promptings to ensure you don't offend the local people, hints on gaining the most from the areas to which you travel and good, sensible logistics info. on packing, booking, travelling etc.
Fantastic preparatory travel book!.......2005-03-11
This is a wonderful resource. As I read it, I always had a pen in hand, taking notes. I have a plethora of websites, notes, and good tips to take into consideration when planning my three-month trip. She helps you ponder each decision carefully, whether it is to travel solo or with others, where to stay, travel lessons, safety, how to pack light, and traveling for a long period of time. Even though I am not traveling with a partner, I still read the entire book cover to cover. I *highly* recommend this book--I would give it way more than 5 stars if I could. Any woman (even a man would benefit from most of this book) should read this book before traveling.
Inspirational Reference for Solo Women Vagabonds.......2004-12-28
I first bought this book when I was preparing to travel to Europe at 19 - over ten years ago, and my rough worn copy is still a favorite on my shelf.
Chock full of great advice, anecdotes from author Zapatos and women she interviewed, inspirational insights and down to earth tips, A Journey of One's Own is the perfect gift for any woman considering an extended travel adventure - or armchair traveller looking for a new perspective.
Don't Leave Home Without It!.......2004-01-21
This book is so helpful! It answered questions I didn't yet know I had interspersed with wonderful stories. What a resource.
Average customer rating:
- Independent My Foot
- Sadly, I did not find this a realistic or deep story
- Not just for mothers and daughters
- Spiritual woman
- I loved this book
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A Woman of Independent Means
Elizabeth Forsythe Hailey
Manufacturer: Penguin (Non-Classics)
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
 United States | World Literature | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books | 18th Century | 19th Century | 20th Century | African American | Asian American | Classics | Collections & Readers | Drama | General | Hispanic | History & Criticism | Humor | Jewish American | Letters & Correspondence | Native American | Poetry | Short Stories | Women Writers
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A Woman of Substance
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Joanna's Husband and David's Wife
ASIN: 0140274367 |
Book Description
A bestselling sensation when it was first published by Viking in 1978, A Woman of Independent Means has delighted millions of readers and was the inspiration for the television miniseries starring Sally Field. At the turn of the century, a time when women had few choices, Bess Steed Garner inherits a legacy--not only of wealth but of determination and desire, making her truly a woman of independent means. From the early 1900s through the 1960s, we accompany Bess as she endures life's trials and triumphs with unfailing courage and indomitable spirit: the sacrifices love sometimes requires of the heart, the flaws and rewards of marriage, the often-tested bond between mother and child, and the will to defy a society that demands conformity. Now, with this beautiful trade paperback edition, Penguin will introduce a new generation of readers to this richly woven story. . .and to Bess Steed Garner, a woman for all ages.
Customer Reviews:
Independent My Foot.......2007-06-07
The first time I read Elizabeth Forsythe Hailey's A Woman of Independent Means I was a sophomore in high school and read it with other members of our book club. At the time I greatly enjoyed the book. Trying to relax my brain from school work I picked it up again the other afternoon but found the book a bit more problematic on the second reading. Hailey wanted to write a book about a woman finding her independence and as her husband assured her that a woman going out to find her independence was a dried up story line he encouraged her to write a book about a woman finding her independence within a domestic setting. The book is largely based off of her grandmother, in epistolary format, and takes place from 1899 to 1968.
If A Woman of Independent Means is meant to achieve an understanding of a woman in a domestic setting and her independence I fear it fails greatly. The main character Elizabeth has two marriages, which both are largely unhappy and the only money she has is a result of her mother's death and the fact that another man made financial decisions for her even though they were against her wishes. She does travel abroad a lot, which seems to imply that a woman cannot find independence within a domestic setting. She has three children who in later life reject her for smothering them (though amends are made before she dies) and she never really seems to do anything. An interesting read but quite the damming story of the domestic experience.
Sadly, I did not find this a realistic or deep story.......2007-04-27
I agree with what Elain, another reviewer, writes below. Told through a series of letters, the novel spans Bess' life. I found this tedious and the writing unnatural, written for the readers of the novel and not for the readers of the actual letters. Bess meanders through her life, a goody-two-shoes, writing smarmy virtuous thoughts while manipulating those around her- the only element of the story that was interesting. elain wrote:
Despite rave reviews, I thought Elizabeth Forsythe Hailey's A Woman of Independent Means was a weak story. For one thing, the life of the protagonist Bess was only explored through her correspondence over the years. It is impossible to reveal a whole life through letters only. There are other nuances to a character that cannot possibly be revealed through letters; those are only what Bess chooses to write about. It's true that a life through letters gives the novel character, but also it does not expose as much as an omnicient narrator would. Also, it seems that Hailey adds dimension to her novel by introducing a string of tragedies. It is very uncommon that Bess's husband and son die within her lifetime, her house burns down, her daughter is struck by a car and later befriends a count, etc. Such events were constantly inserted into the story until it became unrealistic and maudlin. It may be true that Bess lives a life scarred by tragic events, but these happenings are so plentiful it is almost fantastical.
To sum it all up, if you're interested in exploring the life of a very colorful lady, read this. But if you're looking for a novel that will leave you awed, you'd better head back to the bookshelf.
Not just for mothers and daughters.......2007-02-20
This is an outstanding study of an unusual (for the time) woman who, through her letters, conveys a strong spirit, a sense of love of family, and a series of lessons on life ranging from child rearing to finance to business strategy to the honor of doing the right thing. Her letters take one from childish glee to love's happiness to tragic sorrow and occasionally to the discomfort of her well-intended but blatant pushiness. They introduce the reader to the circumstance and the event but leave enough out for brevity which allows the readers' imaginations to picture for themselves the pictures portrayed by the author's imagery.
An excellent read for women and men alike. It is a keepsake in my library
Spiritual woman.......2007-02-10
Greetings,
It is extremely difficult to remain anchored in your spirit especially if you are a woman. This book will encourage you and invoke something in your soul that will confirm to you that you are on the right path.
I loved this book.......2006-10-18
What a great book. If you loved "The Secret Life of Bees" you will also love this book. It is well written. The author gives you the feeling that you know and care about the characters. A real page turner that is hard to put down. Highly recommended.
Average customer rating:
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Katharine Hepburn: An Independent Woman
Ronald Bergan
Manufacturer: Arcade Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
Actors & Actresses | Arts & Literature | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
Entertainers | Arts & Literature | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
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Hepburn, Katherine | ( H ) | People, A-Z | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 1559703512 |
Customer Reviews:
Great Kate Pics!!!!!.......1998-12-05
I love Katharine Hepburn and this is a absolutly terrific, especially all the pictures. Oh and it has her correct b-day, May 12, 1907.
Average customer rating:
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Fanny Fern: An Independent Woman
Joyce W. Warren
Manufacturer: Rutgers University Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
General | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
Women | Specific Groups | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
ASIN: 0813517648 |
Book Description
Juliana Holcott grew up poor in a joyless household
Only one person ever treated her kindly -- Nicholas Barre, the orphaned heir to the estate, who suffered equally at the hands of their indifferent guardians. But wild, rebellious Nick left home -- and Juliana -- while both were still young, and Juliana never thought to see him again.
Forced to seek employment as a lady's companion, Juliana fears she'll never experience for herself what it's like to be young and merry and in love . . . until she spies Nicholas at a ball, all grown up and more handsome than ever.
Much sought after and newly come into his inheritance, Nick blithely risks society's wrath by befriending her, and when his innocent attentions cause her to lose her position, nobly offers her the only recompense he can -- a marriage of convenience.
It now falls to Juliana to prove to the badly scarred Nick that he is capable of emotion. But how will she protect her beloved new husband when it becomes clear someone wants his title . . . badly enough to kill for it?
Customer Reviews:
An Independent Woman.......2007-01-08
Juliana and Nicholas were childhood friends. They grew up together in Lychwood Hall, the home of Nicholas' uncle. They were considered outsiders by Uncle Trenton, Aunt Lilith, and their children, Crandall and Seraphina. At sixteen, Nicholas decided to escape, leaving Juliana alone. Nicholas promised he would return for her, but fifteen years have passed.
Juliana is a paid companion to Clementine and while attending a ball she sees Nicholas arrive. Although Juliana desperately wants to talk to Nicholas, she is worried he will not recognize her, or worse yet, he won't acknowledge her. She is very pleasantly surprised when Nicholas seeks her out, asking her to dance. Juliana adored Nicholas as a child, but now she sees him as a man.
After Nicholas pays a visit to Juliana, Clementine's jealousy causes her to lose her position. Nicholas feels responsible, so he offers to marry her. Juliana is reluctant but she agrees and they return to Lychwood Hall. They find that Aunt Lilith is still rude, Seraphina is not the beauty she once was, and Crandall is even more vile than he was as a young man. As they adjust to their surroundings, Nicholas and Juliana discover their fondness for each other goes much deeper than friendship. But nicholas tries to deny his feelings for Julianna.
On their wedding night, Nicholas and Juliana are interrupted when Crandall is found dead. Nicholas and Juliana proceed to investigate, trying to find the killer. It seems that Crandall had more enemies than allies and they all have motive to want him dead. During his investigation, Nicholas is sure he has discovered the identity of the killer. Believing Juliana is now in danger, Nicholas races back to Lychwood Hall, praying that he arrives in time to save her!
In An Independent Woman, Nicholas rages a constant battle between his desire for Juliana and his need to stay away from her. I found this frustrating, but when he finally accepts his feelings, the heat and tenderness between them is very passionate. Juliana's love for Nicholas is so endearing. The mystery that surrounds the later part of the book is very intriguing. I was surprised by the killer's identity. An Independent Woman is a heart-warming story that delivers a lovely happily ever after ending.
Nannette
Reviewed for Joyfully Reviewed
An Independent Woman.......2006-10-18
Another boring book. There were far too many unlikable characters in this novel. The ones that were likable had no personality at all despite the author telling us that they did. Too much of a murder mystery for me. Not enough dialogue between the two main characters to make it romantic.
An Interesting Read.......2006-04-23
This book features the relationship between Julianna Holcott and Nicholas Barre, who were best friends as kids,they enjoyed 4 sweet years together, but have been apart for 12 years, because nicholas ran away, for a reason he reveals later in the story.
Julianna is a companion for the Thrall family, composed of Fiona, the sensible one, her bimbo sister Clementine, her disillusional mother,Lady Thrall and a father who's sensible enough to stay away from his wife. Nicholas and Julianna re-meet at a ball where Julianna is chaperoning Clementine, a series of shannengans occur that get Julianna fired.Clementine gets her well deserved put- down and Juliana gets a backbone.
Nicholas and Julianna travel back to the Barre estate, where their, hateful cousin Crandall, is killed on their wedding night, Nicholas took a vow of celibacy but apparently cant keep hos hands of Julianna. Julianna just wants to be loved and learns a shocking revelation about her mum. Julianna also might be having Nicholas's baby and the Crandall murder is still yet to be solved. The villian i must ay was obvious from the beginning, but from a characters point of view, it was not.
A highly, enjoyable book.
Wonderful!.......2006-04-12
A Candace Camp historical romance is always a delight. An Independent Woman is one of her best. Julianna Holcott & Nicholas Barre are childhood friends who faced orphanhood together. Fifteen years later, Nicholas is now Lord Barre. He returns to England to claim his inheritance and find Julianna, who is now a paid companion. Nicholas proposes marriage to his dear friend, thinking he can maintain a marriage of convenience. Candace Camp captivates us throughout the pages as the desire builds between Julianna and Nicholas. They return to his estate to be married, an estate and inheritance his cousin Crandall and Aunt Lilith have been maintaining for him throughout the years of his absence. The story takes a turn with a murder on Julianna & Nicholas's wedding night, with a Clue-like cast of characters as the possible culprit. A touching Cinderella story with a bit of mystery and suspense. An enjoyable read!
Bravo!.......2006-03-14
This is one of the best romance novels I have read in a long time...and I read alot of them...I enjoyed the emotional whirlwind the author was able to create for the reader. I cried and laughed...
The only thing I think would of made this book even better, was more love scenes between the two main characers...they were wonderful together!
Product Description
6 massmarket paperback Titles in Lavette Family Series - The Immigrants - Second Generation - Establishment - Legacy - Immigrant's Daughter - An Independent Woman
Book Description
Divorced from the Mob breaks the mob code of silence and describes the life of Andrea Giovino, a woman born and bred into the Mafia, and her inspirational escape. Sexy and street-smart, Giovino married a mob drug runner, earned a seat at ‘80s nightclub tables next to John Gotti, and took an emotional and bloody ride through organized crime. Hers was also the task of keeping her children safe—keeping the guns out of reach, washing bloodstains out of her husband’s clothes—and maintaining the household’s front as a model of American domesticity in her quietly luxurious Staten Island neighborhood of doctors and lawyers, all the while helping manage a criminal enterprise that raked in money. A murder, a DEA set-up, and FBI wiretaps finally brought Giovino, her husband, and her brother to the brink of prison. Defiantly, Giovino chose to retain her identity, facing down threats against her life and courageously divorcing herself and her children from the Gambino world of organized crime. Now a model working parent, Giovino has penned this perspective of mob life largely unexplored by film and literature, and a headline-grabbing expose of organized crime told in a voice readers will never forget.
Customer Reviews:
No mea culpa here........2005-11-29
The book is well written. The story is familar in terms of mobster literature. Its a pretty good read. She leaves me cold. She divorced said mob and turned her life around when she had no other choices. Maybe that was the best she could do given the particulars of her life, but something is too off putting for me to be able to sympathise.
And turned her life around to what? We arn't give any particulars of her new "independent" life. For safety's sake? Who knows" Ultimatly, who cares?
Poor Editing.......2005-07-31
I found this biography fascinating (in the vein of "The Glass Castle"), but there were too many typos - at least in the edition I read. These mistakes (often 1 or more to a page) were disconcerting and inexcusable, in my opinion, since the book was co-written. You'd figure one of the two writers would have found the other's errors. I have to give Andrea credit, though, given her childhood, she's truly a survivor. Her story makes me wonder what might have been had she experienced an ordinary or a privileged upbringing.
No Accountability.......2004-11-29
I'm still waiting for the other part of the title to materialize. That is, when did she become an independent woman? She leeched from man to man and then to the Witness Protection Program. She even needed a man to help her write the book.
She might talk the talk but she did not walk the walk. Even when her world is falling apart (again), she first thinks of who is going to care for her first before she thinks of putting food on the table for her kids. Me, me, me, me, me.
One got the feeling she was only sorry she got caught. If she had never been caught, she'd still be mooching off the organized crime system.
If she had to do it all over again, you know she'd do it again in a heartbeat.
Married to The Mob for All the Wrong Reasons.......2004-08-26
I read this last week while lollygagging on South Padre Island beach where they have the 3rd largest Spring Break every year. This book is a definite page turner. Andy grew up poor and abused and got the attention and money from men that she craved and never received as a child. Unfortunately, she was abused as an adult as well and the money and power she acquired was not worth it in the end. I hope she and her children are still alive and well in PA. She is a tough cookie so I am sure she is doing fine. If you like true stories about the mob you will want to read this one.
A FUN Summer read!.......2004-07-29
I couldn't put this book down. I am a big fan of mob stories and this was a good one...I am just glad she got her life together and got her kids out of that mess. The author is a strong woman with incredible survivor skills. I wish her all the best!
Average customer rating:
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An Independent Woman's Lake District Writings (Classics in Women's Studies)
Harriet Martineau
Manufacturer: Humanity Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
History | Subjects | Books | Africa | Americas | Ancient | Arctic & Antarctica | Asia | Australia & Oceania | Books on CD | Books on Cassette | Europe | Gay & Lesbian | Historical Study | Large Print | Middle East | Military | Military Science | Russia | United States | World
19th Century | British | World Literature | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 1591021723 |
Book Description
Finally, the long-awaited novel that brings readers back to the world of The Immigrants--a deeply moving story that follows wealthy matriarch Barbara Lavette as she travels the world, finds true love...and faces the most difficult challenge of her life.
Customer Reviews:
Poor ending.......2002-03-18
I have read the six books in a row and it's true it has a lot of mistakes. The book seems to have been written by someone different from Howard Fast. It's a pity that the saga ends like this, because the five previous books were fantastic.
Bought this book on sale.......2002-02-19
and I am glad I did not pay full price for it. It was an ok book. I have never read any of Howard Fast's books before and I probably won't bother with any others.
I felt that the book was rambley and disjointed. I did like the fact that the author made it easy to read this book without reading the others in the series.
I also liked reading about Jerusalem, wine, and Unitarianism. These were wonderfully researched and discussed and it was good to learn new things and explore new ideas, especially in relation to faith and God.
In books that I really enjoy, the characters are alive, I feel close to them and am sorry when the story comes to a close. I did not have this feeling at the end of "An Independent Woman." The end was sad, but I never felt that I really knew Barbara or her family and, therefore, I felt removed from the events.
It is a good and interesting story, but I was not able to warm to the characters.
Bye Barbara.......2002-02-12
As a third generation Italian-American who lives in San Francisco, I fell in love with the Immigrant series when I read it in high school years ago. Upon hearing that this last book in the series had been published, I eagerly reread all the previous books to prepare myself for "An Independent Woman." Unfortunately, I have a good memory so the inaccuracies and editing mistakes took some of the enjoyment off of what in all was an good experience. (My favorite mistake was Joanna and Steve Cassala's return from the dead.) Putting this aside though, I loved getting immersed in the Lavette-Levy tale again, and cried as it ended. I wish that Barbara had lived to go on more adventures - that she wasn't struck down in her prime - but then again that is how life works sometimes. Even though, this wasn't the end I had envisioned for the Immigrant series, I am happy that I read it, and would encourage any fan to buy it.
Sad to see her go.......1999-07-10
Ten minutes ago I finished reading 'An Independent Woman.' Saddened at the untimely death of Barbara Lavette, I feel the book was aptly titled. The book, to the end, portrayed a woman with incredible character. I can't share in the disappointment of the previous reviewers. It was a joy to share in the Levy/Cohen/Lavette families again. My only complaint - the walking tour of Jerusalem seemed to be filler. A great wrapup to a great set of books. Read them all.
Good, but not quite up to Immigrant's Saga........1999-01-28
I have been a fan of Fast's Immigrants Saga since I read the first book. Imagine my suprise when I saw a new book to a series that I had thought had been concluded. I cannot say that this is as good as the Immigrants series has been, but it isn't terrible. It was mostly a trip down Barbara Lavette's memory lane. This book mostly made me decide to re-read and try to find copies of the books that lead up to this one. It does seem that Mr. Fast got tired while writing the story and decided that he was done, so stopped by giving Barbara cancer. I will read this book again, and I do recommend it to any fan of Fasts Immigrants saga, just to take the walk though the Lavette's and Levy's interesting lives.
Books:
- Wizard Twins: Menage a Magick (Book 1)
- Yarn Harlot: The Secret Life of a Knitter
- Younger Next Year: A Guide to Living Like 50 Until You're 80 and Beyond
- A Kingdom of Dreams
- A Perfect Hero
- A Stroke of Midnight: A Meredith Gentry Novel
- A Tendering in the Storm (Change and Cherish Historical Series #2)
- A Thousand Splendid Suns
- Against the Wall
- All About Us
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Educating Alice: Adventures of a Curious Woman
Tales of a Female Nomad: Living at Large in the World
Passionate Nomad: The Life of Freya Stark (Modern Library Paperbacks)
Nothing to Declare: Memoirs of a Woman Traveling Alone
The Miss Dennis School of Writing: And Other Lessons from a Woman's Life
