Laurie H. (coolelle) - , reviewed A terrific range of work on 3/10/2009 + 19 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 2

This book has a terrific range of work by American women born in the 19th century -- from the famous "Yellow Wallpaper" by Charlotte Perkins Gilman, to the little known "A Jury of Her Peers" by Susan Glaspell. The Glaspell story was my favorite because of its subtleties and subversions. Her descriptions of everyday things are gritty and realistic, and she really brings you into the mindset of the protagonist, a woman we never meet (quite a feat!). For those of you who think of Louisa May Alcott as a children's author, you must read her story "Transcendental Wild Oats". A funny, wry story about a utopia that isn't, this story displays her adult sensibilities and her keen sense of humor. The heartrending story "Paul's Case", by Willa Cather, walks a tightrope between making light of the silliness of the main character, and allowing you into his head and heart to sympathize with him.

Other stories in this collection include: "Life in the Iron-Mills" by Rebecca Harding Davis, "A White Heron" by Sarah Orne Jewett, "A New England Nun" by Mary E. Wilkins Freeman, "The Storm" by Kate Chopin, "The Angel at the Grave" by Edith Wharton, "The Stones of the Village" by Alice Dunbar-Nelson, "Smoke" by Djuna Barnes, "Sweat" by Zora Neale Hurston, and "Sanctuary" by Nella Larsen.

Back to all reviews by this member
Back to all reviews of this book
Back to Book Reviews
Back to Book Details