
Rita C. (
boatgirl) wrote on 6/15/2009...
The well-written and very realistic characters in this book tell a story that is all too common -- how the decisions we make when we are young can unknowlingly shape the rest of our lives. From Georgie, the oldest of the five Novak children, who was seemingly destined to leave the confines of the little Pennsylvania mining town; fragile Dorothy; responsible Joyce who leaves the military and a life otherwise filled with promise to care for her ailing mother and younger siblings; younger brother Sandy, who leads a shiftless life; to little Lucy (the family's bonus baby) who, although seemingly groomed for a promising life outside of Bakerton, but feels compelled to return.
The author truly captures the essence of a small mining community in post-WW II America, where, for the men, a lifetime of working in the mines is almost an expectation. For the women, few opportunities exist beyond keeping house and raising children in the company houses that fill Bakerton's ethnic neighborhoods. Life moves by slowly, predictably, with little desire for change. When the times and economy changes, the town of Bakerton gradually fades away, but with hope for the future.
Jennifer Haigh tells the story of the Novacs beautifully. I'm not normally one to be driven to read the book cover to cover without putting it down, but this time I couldn't help myself. I didn't want to stop reading.
Good book, but a depressing

Charlotte K. (
bigheart) wrote on 5/4/2008...
This is a beautifully written book about a family and how the course of their lives is determined, in part, by their place of birth.
Jennifer Haigh makes the ordinary extraordinary.

Kadie F. (
kadiefop) wrote on 1/22/2008...
incredible yet sad story...especially coming from a family of coal miners. A definite must read about coming of age, family hardships, and small town America...for me, it's always nice to get a glimpse. highly recommended!
Loved it. The characters are so interesting and I couldn't put it down. Great writing.

Joan G. (
jwedzee) wrote on 12/7/2006...
A novel of a mining town and growing up in the town. Very well written.

Marta J. (
booksnob) wrote on 7/8/2006...
I have to say that I don't think this novel came close to "Mrs. Kimble". It certainly wasn't bad, but I expected more from her...

Christie S. (
Tchr36) wrote on 4/23/2006...
Story of love and loss in a mining town after World War II.