All of us ‘normal’ people take our bodies for granted. Rarely, if ever, do we consider the lives of those with disabilities and the difficulties they All of us ‘normal’ people take our bodies for granted. Rarely, if ever, do we consider the lives of those with disabilities and the difficulties they face unless we have a direct loved one who fits this category. Schooling, family, friends, sex, career… Every aspect is affected by their disability. Riva Lehrer was born in the 50s with Spina Bifida and was given a short timeline to live. But live, she did. Now a well-known artist and professor; Lehrer lives her best life as the adage goes and shares it all with readers in, “Golem Girl: A Memoir”.
When a text simultaneously makes you laugh out loud, frown AND takes your breath away before you even hit page 10; then you know that you have a masterpiece on your hands. This is precisely what Lehrer’s “Golem Girl” achieves. “Golem Girl” combines elements of a standard memoir, stream of consciousness piece, fictional literature, play and artist manifesto; before topping it off with an educational/informative flair. This, ladies and gents, is how a memoir should be done! Lehrer has set the bar high!
Lehrer’s glossy-paged text (yes, these little details DO garner bonus points); follows Lehrer’s life from her diagnosis, through a special school for those with a disability, university and her early career in a chronological format (mostly – as there are some backtracking areas). Lehrer’s storytelling is accessible and easily relatable but never dummied down as the prose is richly nuanced and engrossing. Lehrer is incredibly intelligent but boiling over with creative confidence adding humor into the mix. “Golem Girl” is inviting while being poignantly magnetic. It is, simply put, the dictionary definition of “page turner”.
Readers truly ‘feel’ every emotion while experiencing “Golem Girl” but never in a contrived or forced way. Lehrer is genuine and down-to-earth but also effortlessly instructs on life with a disability from menial to important tasks all the way to advocacy for the field. “Golem Girl” is incredibly memorable and raises philosophical and psychological topics that the reader can’t help but continue to consider even after completion of the text.
Lehrer is an expert at entertaining and keeping the reader engaged. Her pen knows the secret formula of how much time should be spent on each tale or storytelling style before moving on and switching it up. “Golem Girl” is fresh, feisty and fervent with a strong heartbeat.
Unlike most memoirs attempting to catch readers with raunchy, gossipy tales generally obsessing over sex and drugs or constantly playing the “woe is me” pity party card while point fingers at others; “Golem Girl” is instead a strong, independent declaration. Lehrer never begs for pity, complains or blames others for any mishaps and is one of the boldest women alive for it. She is truly a ‘good person’. Even when someone did her wrong; Lehrer never trash talks in “Golem Girl”. Perhaps this is an avoidance tactic (and hopefully Lehrer isn’t bottling emotions inside); but it works to make “Golem Girl” am epically standout memoir.
“Golem Girl” is peppered throughout with Lehrer’s artwork, especially when accompanying a related tale. Speaking of art, the final quarter of “Golem Girl” follows Lehrer’s artistic journey during some of her projects/series/exhibitions and is consequentially more of an artist program than a memoir and is a noticeable departure from former portions of the book. Despite this, “Golem Girl” is not weakened in any way and maintains its alluring capacity to draw readers.
Impressively, Lehrer is able to demonstrate her weaknesses and share her pains in a manner that shows she has accepted them and moved on. Either Lehrer has an incredible therapist or she, once again, is momentously strong (I would wager it is both).
Lehrer concludes “Golem Girl” in a well-rounded way that makes the text feel ‘complete’. Also included, are two epilogues with one being a letter from Lehrer during May 2020 in the height of Covid-19 and lockdowns and the other showcasing Lehrer’s paintings with the subjects’ points of view included. Lehrer also offer reader resources concerning disabilities.
“Golem Girl” is an unspeakably amazing memoir that is quite perfect in every way be it content, execution, prose, style, etc. Lehrer is an amazing soul and this is clear in her writing (don’t worry: she is very humble). “Golem Girl” is recommended for all readers who enjoy memoirs; especially about those overcoming hardships. ...more
History has shown that sometimes one simple act can turn a city upside down and fuel a chain of events which leaves the populace aching to “figure it History has shown that sometimes one simple act can turn a city upside down and fuel a chain of events which leaves the populace aching to “figure it out” meanwhile trying to stick to their norms. Laszlo Krasznahorkai explores this idea in his novel, “The Melancholy of Resistance” translated from Hungarian into English by the gifted translator, George Szirtes.
“The Melancholy of Resistance” follows the fear of change and the unknown following the arrival of a circus into a Hungarian town. The residents’ lives are not only turned upside down; but they fear an underlying evil presence. Krasznahorkai introduces various characters (Mrs. Plauf, Mr. and Mrs. Eszter, Valuska, etc) as they uniformly interact and individually attempt to discern the changes made to the town. Using this theme and character set; Krasznahorkai examines philosophy and depth of thought making “The Melancholy of Resistance” multi-faceted and layered versus solely a singular-plot novel.
Krasznahorkai pens “The Melancholy of Resistance” in a strong stream of consciousness, ever-lasting flow style. In fact, the novel does not have chapter breaks and features a run-on sentence structure (lots of commas) which can be difficult to follow and makes it tedious to choose a pausing point. This certainly makes “The Melancholy of Resistance” not necessarily the ideal read (in terms of style) for everyone.
“The Melancholy of Resistance” begins strongly with a special ‘oomph’ and unique and vivid characters. Sadly though, this weakens at the halfway point where not only do the characters’ strengths decrease but the plot occasionally doesn’t make sense and the pace slows. It is a noticeable and drastic difference in comparison to the former half of the book.
Despite this weakening and somewhat jumbled storytelling; there is still strength in the heavy symbolism and portrayals that the various tangents express. The reader will experience many “ah ha!” –moments of enlightenment where it is clear that Krasznahorkai implores an angle of philosophy.
These philosophical meanderings reach quite an exciting apex before concluding the story in a surprising and more narrative way revisiting (almost) the beginning of the novel. The last pages, however, are bluntly: weird. Memorable, but weird.
“The Melancholy of Resistance” is a ‘different’, dense read which is “up and down” with a unique style not for everyone. However, those seeking surreal stream of consciousness novels will be pleased enough. Admittedly, it is not as strong as some other novels (and particularly Hungarian ones) in the same realm but despite its flaws, it will provide some satisfaction and intrigue. ...more
Many remarkable stories exist of those who were imprisoned during the Holocaust and lived to tell about it. One such story is that of the Ovitz familyMany remarkable stories exist of those who were imprisoned during the Holocaust and lived to tell about it. One such story is that of the Ovitz family: a family of seven dwarfs (I think “little people” is the correct PC-term); who were well-known stage performers before the war and had luck on their side during their time at Auschwitz. Yehuda Koren and Eilat Negev capture their tale in, “Giants: The Dwarfs of Auschwitz”.
“Giants” tells the story of the Lilliput Troupe (a family of little people performers) who avoided the gas chambers at Auschwitz by being held as human medical guinea pigs due to their dwarfism. This is not to say they didn’t suffer but merely that their defects worked in their favor. Being that “Giants” isn’t a memoir, though, it lacks a strong emotional component and doesn’t truly move the reader like many similar texts do. Don’t misunderstand, the base is interesting and compelling but it is more of an introduction to the Ovitz family without really demonstrating their struggle.
In line with this complaint, “Giants” suffers from inconsistency with pacing and a lack of focus. The text shifts from discussing the Ovitz family to that of other concentration camp survivors or Holocaust history. This may be due to the fact that there are two authors or perhaps because of limited resources available surrounding the actual family. Whichever is the case, it weakens “Giants” in the sense that it isn’t completely on-topic of the family. On the other hand, the information provided is interesting and not dry.
Another issue with “Giants” is some repetition which takes place. Sometimes the same facts are repeated (almost copy/pasted) or the history is backtracked which throws the reader off. There are also some quotes from the Ovitz family members but otherwise “Giants” isn’t hard-hitting history or biography with heavy sources.
“Giants” noticeably improves upon discussing the liberation of Auschwitz and an update of all figures mentioned to this point. Not only is the pace livelier but the research and detail is more insightful. This is probably due to more available resources but is also a result of slightly elevated writing.
Koren and Negev conclude “Giants” with an emotionally-charged ending while providing an epilogue describing their personal journey researching the story. “Giants” also includes a sources list and a section of (black and white) color plates.
“Giants” is an intriguing story but is unfortunately not fleshed out well. Yes, it is a good introduction to the Ovitz family and encourages a historical fiction book; but it doesn’t reach the same emotional crescendo that other Auschwitz-topic books accentuate. “Giants” is not terrible and is suggested for those readers interested in Holocaust survival stories but it is not mind-bowing, either. ...more
Long before the fascination with the ‘Little People’ starring in multiple reality shows; there were two mini-celebrities (no pun intended) who paved tLong before the fascination with the ‘Little People’ starring in multiple reality shows; there were two mini-celebrities (no pun intended) who paved the way. General Tom Thumb (Charlie Stratton) and Lavinia Warren were performers under PT Barnum during the Civil War era. Despite the country’s upheaval; Charlie and Lavinia achieved stardom and mingled with the top-most figures in history. Nicholas Rinaldi brings their story and marriage to life in, “The Remarkable Courtship of General Tom Thumb”.
There is no denying the writing skills of Nicholas Rinaldi concerning the infusion of “The Remarkable Courtship of General Tom Thumb” with vivid descriptions and illustrated visuals. The test sparkles and shines, without a doubt. Yet, there is a chunky dissonance to the story which causes the novel to fall flat. First of all, “The Remarkable Courtship of General Tom Thumb” is told in a past-tense voice with the events being expressed as memories instead of truly living them with the characters. This results in a huge gap between the reader and Charlie; preventing one from really getting into his head.
There is also an issue with Rinaldi seemingly not knowing the theme to his own novel. Much of the text focuses on the Civil War and although this is detailed and passionate; it feels unrelated to the real crux of Charlie and Lavinia. The transitions between these subplots are not smooth and therefore feel like separate novels. There are also moments when the plot (and text) feels too modern. Although these are not excessive; they are very noticeable and are therefore jarring to the reader.
“The Remarkable Courtship of General Tom Thumb” falls more into place around page 100 when Rinaldi begins to alternate voices between the two characters with respective chapters being told by each. Lavinia’s characterization is actually more developed than Charlie with a stronger voice and more openness even though Charles is the main character.
Halfway through, the plot thickens slightly and the pace increases making the novel much more readable (and enjoyable). On the contrary, though, something is still ‘missing’ with an absence of truly revealing the characters. This can best be described in a sort of nonfiction way. Meaning, that Rinaldi could probably pen a strong, unbiased, nonfiction piece better than a novel requiring creativity.
The major issue with “The Remarkable Courtship of General Tom Thumb” is that instead of becoming better, the story becomes very repetitive and unbelievable as the pages progress. I have read much about the characters previously and Rinaldi took quite a lot of historical liberties. As this is a HF novel; Rinaldi reserves that right but at least the events could have been more life-like versus silly and impossible.
The concluding chapters of “The Remarkable Courtship of General Tom Thumb” are rushed and inconclusive leaving many unanswered questions. The ending is not as memorable as Rinaldi hopes it to be. There is a very brief (about 4 lines) mention of the historical liberties in the author’s “acknowledgements” which frankly is quite disappointing at the lack of detail.
“The Remarkable Courtship of General Tom Thumb” is simply not enthralling and isn’t what it sets out to be as it is barely a novel on Tom Thumb. On the contrary, it is more of a Civil HF so if that is your forte; then by all means read this novel immediately. Sadly, the true voices and lives of the characters are never properly revealed. My suggestion for a much better HF novel on the subject is The Autobiography of Mrs. Tom Thumb. On the plus side, the novel is a quick 1-2 read so it doesn’t take up much time. ...more
Imagine receiving a miniature house – a replica of your own – as a wedding gift from your new spouse. Not exactly diamonds, is it? What if miniature fImagine receiving a miniature house – a replica of your own – as a wedding gift from your new spouse. Not exactly diamonds, is it? What if miniature figures began appearing as small play versions of the real thing: your furniture, family members, and even pets? Add some suspense and mystery and you have Jessie Burton’s debut novel, “The Miniaturist”.
“The Miniaturist” is a creative and unique novel based in 17th century Amsterdam following the life of Nella who is newly married to Johannes, a merchant trader. Everything around Nella is instantly turned upside down, fortified by Marin (Johanne’s sister), Cornelia a maid, and Otto, a servant. Life is shaken up even more with the receipt of a miniature cabinet (sort of like a doll house) with which Nella receives life-like figures from a mysterious miniaturist.
Although the plot sounds unbelievably contrived (and even somewhat juvenile); Burton pulls it off remarkably. The story is engrossing with instant repertoire and attachment to Nella. In fact, all of the characters are stand-out and bask in their own spotlights. These are certainly not stock characters.
The main highlight of “The Miniaturist” is Burton’s writing style. Although her prose is accessible (the novel is a relatively quick read and also features short chapters); it is eloquent and rife with symbolic language and beautiful visual descriptions. Burton’s novel is borderline literary and one can picture a forthcoming novel venturing down that path. Much of the text is poetic and sparkling but in a very organic and unforced manner.
On the other hand, the plot line involving the miniaturist is forced; being silly, unexplored, and not smooth (or natural) with Nella’s behaviors/responses. Basically, even though the title of the novel deems that the miniaturist would be a main focus; it is actually a subplot in the “The Miniaturist”. This will cause some unease amongst those readers hoping the title reflects the central theme.
“The Miniaturist” has some slow moments but can still be described as a page-turner. Not to mention, the pace and story both pick up as the novel progresses with many unpredictable and exciting turns. Burton can’t be accused of foreshadowing.
The historical merit of “The Miniaturist” feels accurate with Burton having clearly conducted extensive research into the era, culture, and ways of life. All of the elements in “The Miniaturist” are very ‘real’ in this sense.
Burton’s writing is slightly weakened with the climax which is too much like a fairy tale attempting to overreach with underlying morals and philosophies but failing to do so. The final chapters are rushed while the conclusion is “too happily ever after” and yet lacks a true sense of finality with unanswered questions. Not to mention, the plotline concerning the actual miniaturist was barely even grazed! Bluntly, Burton fell off the ball a bit, so to speak.
Despite a weak ending and some flaws (the thin focus on the miniaturist being the biggest one); “The Miniaturist” is a rather strong debut with elements of literary fiction being present. Burton’s talent and creativity is clear and one can argue that she will only improve with time. I would definitely read more works from her and recommend “The Miniaturist” to those readers who enjoy historical fiction leaning towards historical suspense. ...more
In the year 2014, women dressing as men are of no consequence. However, 130+ years ago, Lucy Lobdell’s decision to don men’s clothing in order to set In the year 2014, women dressing as men are of no consequence. However, 130+ years ago, Lucy Lobdell’s decision to don men’s clothing in order to set upon her own fortune was beyond scandalous. William Klaber meshes this real woman with some fiction in, “The Rebellion of Miss Lucy Ann Lobdell”.
Although the topic of Lucy Lobdell becoming Joseph Lobdell is without a doubt fascinating; Klaber’s novel is sadly less so. The issue lies purely with poor execution and a writing style which doesn’t go higher than the YA rung on the book ladder. “The Rebellion of Miss Lucy Ann Lobdell” fails to ignite as the story follows too much of the “I did this and then that”- structure versus truly allowing the reader to live through Lucy/Joseph. Although the plot is interesting; the storytelling is extremely flat and demonstrates Klaber’s lack of novel-writing experience.
Klaber falls short of keeping events flowing smoothly with consistency. It is clear that he had a lot of ready facts concerning Lucy/Joseph’s life which he wanted to enthusiastically include but he didn’t mesh out the plot evenly. The story has hills and valleys akin to a rowdy roller coaster with too many characters, tangents, and subplots involved; yet with none panning out. In effect, “The Rebellion of Miss Lucy Ann Lobdell” is tiresome and frustrating.
Also frustrating is an absence of adequate inner dialogue, conflict, and struggle within Lucy/Joseph’s head. The story has such potential to explore the feelings of a female pretending to be a male in areas such as sexuality, psychology, and feminism. Klaber hardly even grazes the surface of these with only a few considerations made which are quite disappointing.
“The Rebellion of Miss Lucy Ann Lobdell” improves halfway through with Klaber’s writing becoming less chaotic and more detailed. Regardless, the novel would still not be described as a page turner. Historically, the settings feel authentic, albeit slightly forced. It doesn’t help that the novel suffers from some text/grammar errors.
The climax, which was certainly a poignant point in this real-life figure’s life; doesn’t elicit any emotion. The potential is lost as the delivery lacks energy. Afterwards, “The Rebellion of Miss Lucy Ann Lobdell stumbles even more as it feels like Klaber lost both his footing and his energy. The storytelling picks up again, but with the staleness having already set in; doesn’t fully recover.
The conclusion of “The Rebellion of Miss Lucy Ann Lobdell” has a saving grace of presenting Lucy/Joseph’s mental deterioration which is the only point at which the novel can be deemed as “strong”. Otherwise, the ending is abrupt and unsatisfying. However, Klaber obliges the reader with information on the lives of the characters after the novel’s depiction and also includes a section on how he became involved (Note:some readers may be deterred by the fact that Klaber asserts to having channeled Lobdell’s spirit).
Aside from definitely raising an interest in Lucy/Joseph; “The Rebellion of Miss Lucy Ann Lobdell” fails to deliver. The novel feels empty and devoid of the emotion it could have packed. Thusly, the novel is only encouraged for either YA readers or those seeking a light, quick (1-2 days) read. ...more
The average person is probably unaware that Dwarfism is a catch-all term for over 100 different versions of the conditioWon on Goodreads Giveaways
The average person is probably unaware that Dwarfism is a catch-all term for over 100 different versions of the condition. At least, I certainly didn’t. Suffering from Diastrophic Dysplasia (short stature, joint deformations); 31 year old Tiffanie DiDonato looks back on her life in, “Dwarf: How One Woman Fought for a Body – And a Life- She Was Never Supposed to Have”.
“Dwarf” introduces Tiffanie’s story in a very approachable and friendly manner. DiDonato’s tone is casual and a far cry from stiff. However, the text is too simplified and lacks any literary language. Yes, the target is the general audience but “Dwarf” is too easy-to-read. This may be a reflection on the chronological aspect of the memoir; as the early childhood/memories are replayed in a childish tone which matures slightly as the book progresses. In my opinion, though, the story (even the childhood) can be told without sounding like a child.
Similarly, “Dwarf” lacked the passion and inspiration which the story could seemingly and naturally evoke. DiDonato does become feisty with some of the stories but overall, there is a lack of emotional attachment. The reader doesn’t truly experience the ups and downs of her condition. Although it is both great and amazing that DiDonato has accepted her condition; I still wanted some depth.
“Dwarf” follows a narrative style with a lot of dialogue. This “he said/she said” recollection is suspect unless DiDonato kept a strict journal (she does state that she began to write a memoir early in life). This style of writing helps “Dwarf” flow smoothly and makes the text easy to read.
The climax and second half of “Dwarf” focuses on DiDonato’s bone lengthening surgeries. Although these events were thoughtfully described; DiDonato still maintained some aloofness preventing the complexity and depth which this coverage could have brought to the memoir from trickling to the surface. Simply: something was missing. At the same time, DiDonato didn’t whine or moan or play the pity card when describing her life.
The concluding chapters of “Dwarf” brought annoyance as it almost seemed that DiDonato didn’t have much to write about so she focused on shallow topics like getting her first car (a BMW!), joining a sorority/partying, and meeting her future husband. Size and stature doesn’t limit the ability to be a spoiled, rich girl. Sadly, this ended “Dwarf” on a surface level versus leaving a memorable impact.
“Dwarf” suffers from an interesting topic but encompassing poor execution. It wasn’t terrible and is readable; it is just too easy. I expected more: I expected to be moved, inspired, and brought to strong emotional tides. None of that happened. I also didn’t gain a new knowledge of Dwarfism. “Dwarf” is suggested for a quick read but it will not change your life. ...more
What are your thoughts when you hear the label “conjoined twins”? Do you think of the famous “Siamese Twins”? Perhaps you think of a circus side show What are your thoughts when you hear the label “conjoined twins”? Do you think of the famous “Siamese Twins”? Perhaps you think of a circus side show (shame on you!). Maybe you instantly picture a medical doctor working to separate and better the lives of the ‘inflicted’. Lori Lansens doesn’t picture any of those things and instead envisions two young ladies with a rich and unique life in her novel, “The Girls”.
“The Girls” isn’t your typical narrative with a clear-cut beginning, middle, and end; instead opting for an autobiography/memoir format. The narrators, Rose and Ruby Darlen, alternate chapters (although it is 90% Rose) providing various viewpoints and energies to the story. Don’t be discouraged: although the memoir tone creates a story in which the sisters generally recall events versus a fictional account where one is currently living it; the reader will still be swept away. In fact, the style works very heartily in “The Girls” and I often forgot I wasn’t reading a usual fiction novel. The creative memoir essence actually contributes to the story making it more believable: the voices felt very real and approachable.
The strongest trait of “The Girls” are the characters. Each sister has a unique voice both in their actions and telling their side of their life story. This is supplemented by various characters throughout (Uncle Stash, Aunt Lovey, the Merkels, etc); each with a strong personality and distinctive attributes. For instance, once can’t help but read Uncle Stash’s dialog with an Eastern European accent (he is from Slovakia). “The Girls” has some of the strongest fictional characters which I have encountered. One truly walks with and feels their lives. Often times, the reader will feel like he/she is friends with the sisters as they sometimes speak directly to the reader.
There are moments when the events are repeated and become tedious, losing chronological order. This can cause some annoyance, however, it also demonstrates the “real” way a young female who is simply writing her story versus a fictional account would progress. Basically, it adds to the believability. There are also various shocking moments (which are usually blurted by Ruby versus Rose) which heighten the pace and keeps reader attention. Plus, “The Girls” supplies equal amounts of tear jerkers and laugh-out-loud comedy.
Toward the latter portion of the book, Lansens’ story-telling slowed down and lost some steam. It felt like she didn’t have much to say at this point but was dragging the story out in order to extend the ending. Several pages could have been omitted without losing the message and the story became somewhat confusing with repeated events. Speaking of messages: the underlying theme regarding being “different” wasn’t overly pushed nor expressed in the usual, tacky way. Once “The Girls” bounces back from the slight slowdown, the conclusion is moving and ends slightly differently from how one would expect, providing solid closure.
Lansens’s writing style is beautiful and a great example of talented, literary magic. The descriptions, settings, and characters are creatively and gorgeously displayed in a simple and yet finely tuned method. “The Girls” is not like every other novel out there.
“The Girls” succeeds in offering an imaginative and original plot with superb execution. Lansens supplies a strong character study with induced morals which makes the reader "think". Rose and Ruby Darlen are characters that you will not forget… and wouldn’t want to. ...more
The end of the 19th century was a time of great inventions, medical discoveries, religious movements in the form of spiritualism, and large frauds/scaThe end of the 19th century was a time of great inventions, medical discoveries, religious movements in the form of spiritualism, and large frauds/scams. During this exciting period, Molly Fancher, a young woman in Brooklyn, NY; was severely injured and then took to her bed for over a decade. Fancher and her advocates claimed that she subsisted on no food, lived in-and-out of trances, and developed clairvoyant abilities. Rocking the media, Fancher’s case sprouted a medical and spiritual debate. Michelle Stacey covers Fancher’s story in, “The Fasting Girl: A True Victorian Medical Mystery”.
Even readers unfamiliar with Molly Fancher can’t deny being aroused by the book’s topic. Sadly though, Stacey doesn’t satisfy this curiosity. “The Fasting Girl” is poorly executed with a mish-mash of jumbled tangents. Stacey is a seasoned journalist which means “The Fasting Girl” reads like a journalistic report or article instead of having a smooth narrative. The authors feels inclined to venture down every road (for example: mentioning a doctor results in pages of his career bio or a tidbit on Fancher’s childhood home is followed by half a chapter on Brooklyn history); which therefore causes the book to lose its main focus of the text. “The Fasting Girl” would be remarkably shorter were these tangents eliminated.
Throughout the book, these various strands even out slightly (I emphasize: slightly), as more information became available to Stacey allowing her to spotlight Fancher’s case. Again, this is a coverage view so Fancher doesn’t truly come alive or breathe and there are no primary sources such as Fancher’s diary entries or personal letters. “The Fasting Girl” is based wholly on summarizing existing newspapers and journal articles.
It should also be noted that the chapters are long, not allowing for the space that some readers desire and thus, giving “The Fasting Girl” a run-on feel.
A positive trait of Stacey’s writing is her ability to remain neutral without including any biases or personal thoughts involving the case. This encourages the reader to formulate his or her own thoughts and opinions without the author nudging.
“The Fasting Girl” takes another HUGE detour and essentially becomes a book on the history of anorexia and the biological effects of starvation on the human body. Although some readers may find these chapters to be interesting; Molly Fancher is barely even mentioned on these pages with Stacey going as far as describing starvation in concentration camps during World War II. Stacey is simply “all over the place” with “The Fasting Girl”. The text does eventually revert back to the Fancher case but with less enthrallment and once again strikes off on more tangents.
The final chapters of “The Fasting Girl” are interesting in that they explore Fancher’s psychosis in modern terms and also describe her death which results in a strong conclusion (although it would have made better sense to reverse the order of these two chapters).
Stacey includes a very brief notes section (which won’t satisfy staunch fact seekers), a bibliography, and also some black-and-white images throughout the text (color plates would have been more pleasing). It is also worth revealing that the editor was lax in terms of execution and by also allowing a few spelling and grammar errors.
“The Fasting Girl” is attractive in its topic but is sadly disjointed, repetitive, flimsy in research, and somewhat dry. Although it is an introduction to Molly Fancher; “The Fasting Girl” is not wholeheartedly recommended. ...more
There was a period in not-so-long ago history; when the medical society attributed the condition of ‘hysteria’ to the female sex. Combining symptoms oThere was a period in not-so-long ago history; when the medical society attributed the condition of ‘hysteria’ to the female sex. Combining symptoms of epilepsy, mental illness, and ‘demonic’ possessions; the debate of the causes and pathology of hysteria was the fashionable conversation. In fact, hysteria caused mass hysteria in itself and became an almost celebrity-like form of entertainment. At the very center of this was the neurologist Jean-Martin Charcot of the Salpetriere Hospital and three of his ‘star’ patients: Blanche, Augustine, and Genevieve. Asti Husvedt portraits this topic in, “Medical Muses: Hysteria in Nineteenth-Century Paris”.
Husvedt’s “Medical Muses” serves as a part expose, part romp, splash of medical historical portrait, and educational soiree all wrapped into one seamless piece of writing. Hustvedt brings the topic to life by exploring the background of hysteria, the medical focus, Dr. Charcot, and the actual case studies of Blanche, Augustine, and Genevieve. Although this could lay the foundation for a clumsy, disjointed text; Husvedt reins the topic in with an entertaining and easy-to-read style that also memorably informs. In fact, her panache for not overusing technical jargon but not overly dummying down the text is masterful and hits a sweet spot medium.
“Medical Muses” is truly riveting, encouraging page-turning, providing full-topic coverage, and answering reader questions. The pages delivered by Husvedt are ones that beg to be repeated and are the starters to conversations conversational discourses. There are occasional instances of tangents (albeit, very slight) and repetitive information. Fortunately, Husvedt doesn’t make a habit of this and “Medical Muses” remains quite strong.
In an effortless manner, “Medical Muses” moves with a hearty pace (readers will find themselves not wanting the book to end) and is great serving as both an introduction to the topic or as a research piece. Occasionally, Husvedt slips into a sort of memoir, first-person tone/style but this merely demonstrates her passion for the thesis and her level of conducted research.
Husvedt has a noteworthy ability to not display any biases and presents objective information but without insisting on a dry tone or voice. “Medical Muses” is therefore a joy to read and academically alert.
“Medical Muses” is supplemented with various imaged and illustrations throughout straight from the archives and records of Salpetriere. This not only aids the reader but also adds strength and merit to “Medical Muses”.
Although “Medical Muses” doesn’t primarily focus on superstition or the paranormal; the final section highlights Genevieve and her supposed demonic possession. This brings the connection of hysteria and possession to the forefront while emphasizing the case history; alongside the social history of possessions from the period. The issue with this concluding section is that Husvedt barely speaks of Genevieve and focuses on demonic possession cases outside of the said-subject. The writing strays off on a tangent and loses the focal attention. Granted, this is not to say that Husvedt’s writing is not interesting; but merely that it largely ignored Genevieve and her story.
Even though the ending of “Medical Muses” feels abrupt lacking any emotive appeal and isn’t particularly memorable; the text is redeemed by an ‘Epilogue’ summarizing the pages and also highlighting the historical hysteria viewpoint to the common grounds of today which adds substance to the conclusion.
“Medical Muses” offers a ‘Notes’ section with annotation and a bibliography for Husvedt’s readers seeking more source material on the subject.
Husvedt’s “Medical Muses” is a delightful romp with equal merits of informative structure covering a topic that will satisfy both those new to the subject matter and readers with some prior background. Husvedt presents a piece that is well-researched but readable and entertaining. “Medical Muses” is suggested ...more
Enchanting, engaging, moving, and beautiful. These are just a few words which can amply describe The Autobiography of Mrs. Tom Thumb… and that was onlEnchanting, engaging, moving, and beautiful. These are just a few words which can amply describe The Autobiography of Mrs. Tom Thumb… and that was only by page 27!
The Autobiography of Mrs. Tom Thumb instantly grabs 110% of your attention with vivid imagery, bright descriptions, emotional currents, and a strong plot without the usual fictional fluff. A coming of age story, depicting self-acceptance and growth; The Autobiography of Mrs. Tom Thumb is a traditional theme and yet far from it and much more magical. The story reads with depth and instantaneous character development.
Focusing on the character of Vinnie, the reader forgets that he/she was just introduced to the story and to her character; one with a strong voice and bold personality, coming alive before your eyes. Vinnie powerfully evokes a bond with the reader, thus resulting in a shared emotional up and down journey. From the first time she was called a “dwarf” to the death of her sister, Vinnie shares her joys and failures with the reader.
Melanie Benjamin’s language and text style is intelligent and skillfully written, yet easy and smooth enough that one keeps turning the pages without even noticing the clock minutes ticking by. The story never drags, even in parts which would in other novels. Basically, it flows like butter and dissolves into the bigger picture of developments and sequencing. It is rare to find a book with NO slow parts but The Autobiography of Mrs. Tom Thumb was genuinely contained and a constantly rotating, engaging, and well-developed novel. Never did I imagine I would tear up at a goodbye scene between a little person and a giantess. It isn’t even a scene I ever even considered! But guess who was blurry-eyed? My favorite chapter was depicting the death of Vinnie’s sister during childbirth. A highly pivotal point to the rest of the book, it evoked much emotion and changed the tone in a moving and satisfying way.
At times, Vinnie is egotistical and vain, putting on airs with society. This causes her brief lapses of realization but then she returns to forgetting her roots. Although this may anger some readers (and perhaps it is supposed to, as it is not the typical path of human self-advancement); it demonstrated that Vinnie is“real” and with faults, just like anyone else. This is best portrayed when she meets some “freaks” while working on a sideshow at Barnum’s circus and although she is considered a novelty herself; she is disgusted by the other “creatures”.
One of the few (and maybe only) sections I could have done without were the “intermissions”: a page of news clippings in between chapters which are obviously placed to help set the scene and setting of the Civil War era. However, I don’t feel it helped much in that sense, nor was it a must-have for the story to progress.
Melanie Benjamin remained quite historically accurate with her work despite some of the fictional matter used to keep the book moving. The chronology and sequencing was in-line with major events and thus, the book isn’t as annoyingly speculated as other historical fiction pieces. Benjamin read the unpublished autobiography of the real Mrs. Tom Thumb (which is a rather dry compilation and is more of a travelogue devoid of any emotion); so it would appear that Vinnie would be very proud of this novel depicting her life.
I would have liked the book to continue onward to Vinnie’s second marriage after the death of General Tom Thumb but I enjoyed the inside look at P.T. Barnum which debunked (based on facts) many of Vinnie’s career and life moments/choices. A combination of “Showboat”, the film “Big Fish”, and “Water for Elephants”; this novel should be the next big film (or at least, play).
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