The Right Book at the Right Time

Title: The Aviator’s Wife

Author: Melanie Benjamin

Publisher: Delacorte Press, January 2013

Summary/Review: This book tells the story of Anne Morrow from time she meets Charles Lindbergh through his death. Although she is the plainest and humblest of Ambassador Morrow’s daughters, Anne is the one who is swept off her feet by the dashing, great aviator. Their adventures and eventual marriage make for a compelling story. The book is aptly named because in many ways Anne gave up her own identity through her devotion to her famous husband. The tragedy of losing their first child and its effect on each of them is a key element. There are other hardships that Anne is forced to deal with including dealing with Charles’ odd behaviors and his constant absence, leaving her to raise her children virtually alone. Through it all, she maintains her pride and strength as she develops her own sense of self. One never knows what really goes on in a marriage, but this well researched fictionalized account will keep you turning the pages.

Who will like this book: Readers who like historical fiction or anyone looking for a good read. If you liked Paula McLain’s The Paris Wife, you will enjoy this book.

Recommended by: Jan, Administration

Visit the Fairfield Public Library catalog to see if this book is available and to place a hold!

Title: The Autobiography of Mrs. Tom Thumb

 Author: Melanie Benjamin

 Publisher:Random House, July 2011

Summary: This is a fictionalized memoir of Mercy Lavinia Warren Bump, who was known to her friends and family as “Vinnie” but known to the rest of the world as Mrs. Tom Thumb.
 A terrific historical novel, THE AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF MRS. TOM THUMB takes the reader from Vinnie’s childhood, through her career, and beyond. Born a normal size baby, Vinnie’s parents didn’t realize until she was almost two years old that she wasn’t growing like their other children had. Like her sister Minnie, born 8 years later, she was perfectly healthy except for her size. With an overprotective mother and a distant father, the sisters seemed destined for a lonely, sheltered life. Vinnie, however, decided early on that “never would I allow my size to define me. Instead, I would define it.” This determination led her to P.T. Barnum, Charles Stratton, and the world stage. Traveling to Europe, dining with royalty, attending parties with the Astors and Vanderbilts, all became commonplace for Lavinia and Charles. What a grand life! Or was it? Things aren’t always what they seem, especially in show business.This engaging novel will enlighten and entertain a great many people.

 Who Might Like This?: Fans of historical fiction.

 Recommended by: Sue B, Circulation Coordinator

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