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frostap's review against another edition
3.0
This book was fine, but it also felt like a less-skillful version of "The Invention of Wings" (which is far better).
billston's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.75
This book was unexpectedly good with some very historical facts contained through the characters. I really enjoyed every page, and wanted to know more about the characters with every page.
iddylu's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
hopeful
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.25
cr4nkyp4nts's review against another edition
4.0
I think I'd likely give it 3.5 stars if it hadn't been for the narrator. She did a wonderful job of bringing the story to life.
I was engaged throughout most of the book but there were some scenes that seemed to be a bit heavy on details that did nothing to enhance the story or move it forward. There were also plenty of parts where I had wished more time had been spent giving us some of the feelings of the characters - some very important things that were just glossed over and not really brought up again.
But I still enjoyed the overall package a lot so that's why I went with four stars instead of three and a half.
I was engaged throughout most of the book but there were some scenes that seemed to be a bit heavy on details that did nothing to enhance the story or move it forward. There were also plenty of parts where I had wished more time had been spent giving us some of the feelings of the characters - some very important things that were just glossed over and not really brought up again.
But I still enjoyed the overall package a lot so that's why I went with four stars instead of three and a half.
marquettelaree's review
challenging
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
book_concierge's review against another edition
3.0
Book on CD performed by Bahni Turpin.
3.5***
From the book jacket: Moments after Lisbeth is born, she’s taken from her mother and handed over to an enslaved wet nurse, Mattie, a young mother separated from her own infant son in order to care for her tiny charge. Thus begins an intense relationship that will shape both of their lives for decades to come.
My reactions
Good historical fiction set in 1837 to 1860 Virginia. The novel explores the ways in which family bonds are formed regardless of biological connection. Mattie is a young woman when she’s taken “into the big house” to become Lisbeth’s wet nurse. It’s heartbreaking to witness her all-too-brief Sunday visits with her young son, who has begun to bond with another slave who is caring for him. At the same time, she nurtures the white child, Lisbeth, teaches her songs and tells her stories, helps her become a young lady. Eventually their close bond must be tested and Lisbeth’s naïve attitudes are challenged as she is forced to confront the ugly truth of slavery.
I loved Mattie. She’s a strong woman who works hard and smart, watching and learning skills that will help her and her family find their way to freedom someday. I did not like Lisbeth too much for most of the book. Although she was a much better character than some of the “friends” she had among the other plantation daughters. It’s not until she has a rude awakening that she begins to show some gumption and independence of thought.
The ending is both heart-wrenching and hopeful.
Bahni Turpin is fast becoming a favorite audio performer. She has a wonderful voice and was able to interpret the various characters in a way that made it easy to follow.
3.5***
From the book jacket: Moments after Lisbeth is born, she’s taken from her mother and handed over to an enslaved wet nurse, Mattie, a young mother separated from her own infant son in order to care for her tiny charge. Thus begins an intense relationship that will shape both of their lives for decades to come.
My reactions
Good historical fiction set in 1837 to 1860 Virginia. The novel explores the ways in which family bonds are formed regardless of biological connection. Mattie is a young woman when she’s taken “into the big house” to become Lisbeth’s wet nurse. It’s heartbreaking to witness her all-too-brief Sunday visits with her young son, who has begun to bond with another slave who is caring for him. At the same time, she nurtures the white child, Lisbeth, teaches her songs and tells her stories, helps her become a young lady. Eventually their close bond must be tested and Lisbeth’s naïve attitudes are challenged as she is forced to confront the ugly truth of slavery.
I loved Mattie. She’s a strong woman who works hard and smart, watching and learning skills that will help her and her family find their way to freedom someday. I did not like Lisbeth too much for most of the book. Although she was a much better character than some of the “friends” she had among the other plantation daughters. It’s not until she has a rude awakening that she begins to show some gumption and independence of thought.
The ending is both heart-wrenching and hopeful.
Bahni Turpin is fast becoming a favorite audio performer. She has a wonderful voice and was able to interpret the various characters in a way that made it easy to follow.
thehatfam's review against another edition
4.0
This was supposed to be the next "the help" but I didn't see it at first. In fact, in the middle of the book I started to not like it, but it took a turn and I discovered I loved it! I might read this one again before I read the help again even.