"Good history"
This book rates in the upper 3/4 of my listening
History - the freedom of slaves, at least for a while! Also the friendship that was formed between a very lonely person and her dependable dressmaker.
A very good reader that makes you want to listen more. Her ability to emphasize important information but also to have a kindness and empathy in her voice.
Elizabeth - I would like to learn her art from her, but also just sit and ask questions and listen to her experiences.
I think the author does her history research and homework very well before she starts writing.
"I couldn't get through it"
I usually enjoy historical fiction, but it was very slow and monotone. I had to listen to the same chapter three times, as my interest kept wanning
The Third Bullet
very slow-monotone,
the concept for the story is good-may be better in paper
"Great book"
This was a great story and fabulously read ! Learned a lot of history as well.
"Loved it!"
Met my expectations whole heartedly. Sad parts that I did not expect. However, a triumphant story. Author & narrator perfectly matched.
"Too much history"
Yes, I've read others by JC and loved them. This one I did not love. I'm a complete fan of historical fiction but this book seemed to drag on and on. I felt like I might as well pick up a text book.
Gave up and didn't get that far.
"This book grew on me..."
The longer I read it the more interesting it got. Definitely worth the listen!
"A Saga of Red, White & Blue Tears"
As a historical fiction it was by far one of the best documented and most sympathetic to all women of the times both of the North and of the South. Usually, Mrs. Lincoln has been vilified in most accounts as the first lady;however, in this account her character seemed more balance in its portrayal. Secondly, both the written and oral narrative were captivating in bring the reader along side of the characters in their personal struggles and triumphs. In conclusion, through the narrative I gain a better understanding the presidency of the nineteenth century and the day to day life of women from the perspective a free business mulatto woman.
One of the most memorable moments of life of Elizabeth Keckley was when found out she had been betrayed by some she trusted. After she had request that the editor of her autobiography not include the actual letters of Mrs. Lincoln he asked to read so he could do the final editing. He totally disregarded her wishes and had sent them to the printer for publication. Perhaps he not being a free woman of color he was too foolish to understand the long range repercussion his cavalier behavior would cost Mrs. Keckley and other of her status in Antebellum America.I shivered as I listened and became anxious. Shame on him for his lack of wisdom, honesty and forethought..
The narrator brought out the pathos of the unfortunate times of the War Between the States and the Reconstruction period in America.The human sagas.of the diverse population caught in the grips of greed, cruelty and hatred was dramatized by the narrator. She held my attention and built tension through her dramatic reading. Bravo!
I don't think I could take any of the characters out to dinner,because I am too upset with their naivety and gullibility. Remember I am an outsider and I have one hundred years separation.However, it seemed that the desire for gain and perhaps fame lead to the degradation of a very brave and strong woman Maybe it was stupidity that had caused some to give the woman misguided advice. She was free; but not yet a full citizen, and she was still perceived as second class. Reflecting on both her and their behaviors and attitudes which led to Mrs. Keckly's disgrace and poverty has left me bad dinner company.
Perhaps a debate :)
Read about American History which we must learn and ponder; then vow to live out the values delineated in the Preamble of the Declaration of Independence .. Mrs. Keckly and Mrs. Lincoln were women whose lives reflect their period of history. I am glad I have the privilege to learn from their lives.
"LOVE THIS BOOK!!!"
This book gives you a view of the White House from the inside. My boyfriend is reading in "A Team of Rivals". We compared things and events that happened. Amazing book, Amazing performance. Love this book. Will recommend this book.
"Wonderfully Insightful"
This book was written for me to read. My love of history, especially the civil war. I am also a seamstress, so that part of the book peaked my interest also. I have to say it did not disappoint me in anyway. Totally worth it.
"Two Worlds in one space and time ignite here!"
Quite High!
The original book
Far too many to list.
Perhaps a few more than one.
Excellent listen with history and fiction.