Helpful Score: 3
This is a memoir about Frank and Lillian Gilbreth written by two of their older children. (They had twelve. How could you guess?) The Gilbreths were a rather prolific team in the business realm also. From 1910 to 1924 (when Frank Sr. died) they were highly respected efficiency experts in the United States and in Europe. Their major contribution in the areas of motion study and efficiency is still referenced today in all major textbooks on management. This book traces their life up to the time of Franks death. Frank, with his humorously dictatorial approach to parenthood, is the central figure. The family also becomes the test arena for many of his efficiency theorems and practices. Lillian, somewhat in the background, is the one who quietly keeps everything in control. This is a whimsical portrayal of life in the upper middle class at the turn of the century. It is an enjoyable book that should never go out of fashionor print.
Helpful Score: 3
Better than the new movie any day of the week and twice on Sunday! And if you read this you have to get the sequel Belles on Their Toes!
Great family classics!
Great family classics!
Helpful Score: 2
There is a reason that that only the special few have twelve kids. I was so impressed by Mr. Gilbreth in this memoir. He found so many amazing ways to teach his children will any time that was at his disposal. It was quite intimidating actually when I think of my attempts to teach my children. He really is a role model. His wife was amazing too to go along with all his schemes. This was a great read.
Helpful Score: 2
Definitely a wonderful book about a family that respects one another and learns responsibility. A fascinating and funny read.
Helpful Score: 2
This is a WONDERFUL book written by two children of Frank and Lillian Gilbreth, a couple who developed efficiency and safety studies in the early 1900's. This brother and sister team describe the pitfalls of growing up in a family of 12 children, who are guinea pigs for their father's efficiency experiments. Adults and children both will appreciate the humor in the many childhood pranks, and in the embarrassing situations the teens have to deal with, due to old-fashioned parents and too many mischievous siblings.
I find this book just as funny and poignant now as I did when I first read it 50 years ago! If you like humor in a vintage setting, this is for you!
I find this book just as funny and poignant now as I did when I first read it 50 years ago! If you like humor in a vintage setting, this is for you!
