Helpful Score: 3
i read this for a course on early 20th century American women's history. after i finished it, i realized it is one of those books i would have valued whether or not it was on a required texts lists. it's painful, frustrating and heartbreaking but also powerful and inspiring. even if your family has always been on solid financial footings and you agree with every decision your parents have made, you'll find connections and resonances with Yezierska's commitment to living a full life and finding a way to balance the obligations of family with the need for self identification.
Helpful Score: 2
One of the books that I would have never discovered if it wasn't required reading for English class. Great description of the American immigrant experience.
Helpful Score: 2
A young Jewish immigrant breaks away from traditional roles in the 1920's. Set in NY- some very archetypal characters. A good read, a bit depressing or uplifting depending on whether you percieve the stereotypes or embrace the story of an independent woman.
Helpful Score: 2
Fantastic, exuberant story about how one little Jewish girl beat the matchmaking system and got the education she dreamed of. This is one of the best books about the issues inherent in marriage and life I have ever read yet. Very touching and real!
Helpful Score: 2
This book is an excellent view into radical Jewish Immigrants at the turn of the century in America. It is heart wrenching and hopeful at the same time and can be very frustrating to the reader. It makes you want to finish the book to see what actually happens to everyone.
