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From Pigtails to Chin Hairs: A Memoir & More
In "From Pigtails to Chin Hairs: A Memoir & More," Becky Lewellen Povich takes us from her young Midwestern childhood in the 1950s to present day. Chapters are vignettes of everyday happenings, or unexpected events, written in the way only Becky can, with humor and poignancy woven into them. It begins with her years of summertime fun, Christmases, the neighborhood kids, classmates, trips to the dentist, and long car rides to visit grandparents in Iowa.Becky willingly shares the bittersweet times which include her parents' divorce, major disappointments, preteen and teenage angst, a whack on her head from a falling crowbar, and her ill-fated first marriage, spent mostly in Germany. She also comically writes about her happy second marriage, cell phones, dishwashers, and how she was born with a klutz gene.
- GenresMemoir
314 pages, Paperback
First published November 6, 2013
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1068 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
December 12, 2013
In "From Pigtails to Chin Hairs: A Memoir & More," Becky Lewellen Povich takes us from her young Midwestern childhood in the 1950s to present day.
Chapters are vignettes of everyday happenings, or unexpected events, written in the way only Becky can, with humor and poignancy woven into them. It begins with her years of summertime fun, Christmases, the neighborhood kids, classmates, trips to the dentist, and long car rides to visit grandparents in Iowa.
Becky willingly shares the bittersweet times which include her parents' divorce, major disappointments, preteen and teenage angst, a whack on her head from a falling crowbar, and her ill-fated first marriage, spent mostly in Germany. She also comically writes about her happy second marriage, cell phones, dishwashers, and how she was born with a klutz gene.
My Thoughts...
I found this memoir by Becky a delightful story of bits and pieces of her life. She brought back many memories of my own life when I was a youngster. She talks about her 'klutz gene' but I say join the klutz club, Becky. I, too have fallen around all my life. However, it was fun reading about all your funny falls much more.
Reading her memoir was a week of fun filled days, I didn't want the book to end, therefore I only allowed myself to read about 50-70 pages a day, that way it lasted a lot longer before I reached the end. I even read two other books to make this one last longer, so I wouldn't reach the end so quick. All I can say about this book is "I Loved It."
I followed Becky on her blog as she shared her ups and downs about her writing of her memoir. I pestered and pestered her about when can we get a copy, finally she took pity on me and gifted me with her book.
A big THANK YOU Becky it was a joy to read your memoir. Did I say I loved the book so much I awarded it 5 'Chin Hairs'? I am looking forward to the sequel coming out sometime in 2015.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading and reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers and authors I am under no obligation to write a positive review.
Chapters are vignettes of everyday happenings, or unexpected events, written in the way only Becky can, with humor and poignancy woven into them. It begins with her years of summertime fun, Christmases, the neighborhood kids, classmates, trips to the dentist, and long car rides to visit grandparents in Iowa.
Becky willingly shares the bittersweet times which include her parents' divorce, major disappointments, preteen and teenage angst, a whack on her head from a falling crowbar, and her ill-fated first marriage, spent mostly in Germany. She also comically writes about her happy second marriage, cell phones, dishwashers, and how she was born with a klutz gene.
My Thoughts...
I found this memoir by Becky a delightful story of bits and pieces of her life. She brought back many memories of my own life when I was a youngster. She talks about her 'klutz gene' but I say join the klutz club, Becky. I, too have fallen around all my life. However, it was fun reading about all your funny falls much more.
Reading her memoir was a week of fun filled days, I didn't want the book to end, therefore I only allowed myself to read about 50-70 pages a day, that way it lasted a lot longer before I reached the end. I even read two other books to make this one last longer, so I wouldn't reach the end so quick. All I can say about this book is "I Loved It."
I followed Becky on her blog as she shared her ups and downs about her writing of her memoir. I pestered and pestered her about when can we get a copy, finally she took pity on me and gifted me with her book.
A big THANK YOU Becky it was a joy to read your memoir. Did I say I loved the book so much I awarded it 5 'Chin Hairs'? I am looking forward to the sequel coming out sometime in 2015.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading and reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers and authors I am under no obligation to write a positive review.
June 7, 2014
If you grew up in the 1950's and 1960's, you will LOVE this book! And even if you didn't, it will make that era come vividly to life for you. It's filled with humorous vignettes, but like any good memoir, it's also about life. And as we all know, life isn't always rosy.
I am a child of that era too, and even though Becky grew up in Missouri and I grew up in Massachusetts, sometimes I felt like Becky and I shared the same childhood! We watched the same TV shows, played marbles in our driveways and made potholders that we sold to our neighbors. (Did everybody do that???)
Her writing is witty and her storytelling skills masterful. And she knows just how and when, in the middle of the stories of happy times, to foreshadow some harder times to come. Her prose is alternately laugh-out-loud funny and poignant. Becky says there will be a sequel to this memoir, and I can't wait to read it.
I am a child of that era too, and even though Becky grew up in Missouri and I grew up in Massachusetts, sometimes I felt like Becky and I shared the same childhood! We watched the same TV shows, played marbles in our driveways and made potholders that we sold to our neighbors. (Did everybody do that???)
Her writing is witty and her storytelling skills masterful. And she knows just how and when, in the middle of the stories of happy times, to foreshadow some harder times to come. Her prose is alternately laugh-out-loud funny and poignant. Becky says there will be a sequel to this memoir, and I can't wait to read it.
January 25, 2021
I first met the author way back in 2007; I thought she had talent. And after reading her memoir, I know she does, and for me, it was like taking a stroll down memory lane…and cringing at our current bodily state. Just for the record, she’s a tad older than me, but we grew up in the 1950s and ‘60s. Was it really as simple then or is that how we remember it? Don’t tell me; I like my---and Becky’s---memories the way they are.
The book is divided into six sections. At first, I thought it was important to read them in chronological order, but it wasn’t. I liked that Becky jumped around a bit. Oh, each section had theme, don’t get me wrong, but reading it was like talking with an old friend---we are talking about one thing and another memory pops up, then it’s back to where we were!
The first chapter was about life on the street and the home where she was raised. It looked oh so different as an adult---so much smaller, but the memories are oh so precious. I remember feeling that when I drove past the home where I spent the first six year of my life. The oak tree was much smaller, as was the house. But mostly, like Becky, I remember the love and the fun we had there. Like life, there were times when this story was hard to read (keep a box of hankies nearby) (her first marriage) and times that I was laughing so hard that I need those hankies (the tale of the klutz genes)!
Now I do have to talk about a one thing that I didn’t like: Becky, lose ninety-nine percent of the exclamation points. They almost drove me mad! However, it was a privilege reading this book, as I got a chance to watch Becky turn into the confident, creative, intelligent, goofy and beautiful woman that she is today. And she’s got the scars to prove that she has earned everything all those things. What really stood out is her love of family and writing. And I’m so glad she wrote this book!
From Pigtails to Chin Hairs: A Memoir and More receives 4 out of 5 stars in Julie’s world.
The book is divided into six sections. At first, I thought it was important to read them in chronological order, but it wasn’t. I liked that Becky jumped around a bit. Oh, each section had theme, don’t get me wrong, but reading it was like talking with an old friend---we are talking about one thing and another memory pops up, then it’s back to where we were!
The first chapter was about life on the street and the home where she was raised. It looked oh so different as an adult---so much smaller, but the memories are oh so precious. I remember feeling that when I drove past the home where I spent the first six year of my life. The oak tree was much smaller, as was the house. But mostly, like Becky, I remember the love and the fun we had there. Like life, there were times when this story was hard to read (keep a box of hankies nearby) (her first marriage) and times that I was laughing so hard that I need those hankies (the tale of the klutz genes)!
Now I do have to talk about a one thing that I didn’t like: Becky, lose ninety-nine percent of the exclamation points. They almost drove me mad! However, it was a privilege reading this book, as I got a chance to watch Becky turn into the confident, creative, intelligent, goofy and beautiful woman that she is today. And she’s got the scars to prove that she has earned everything all those things. What really stood out is her love of family and writing. And I’m so glad she wrote this book!
From Pigtails to Chin Hairs: A Memoir and More receives 4 out of 5 stars in Julie’s world.
October 28, 2014
Becky Povich is a personable writer telling her stories as though talking to a friend. I could relate to many of the stories as I grew up in the Midwest during the 1960s and even had divorced parents when that was unusual. Becky's trials included a father who abandoned his family and a military marriage that became abusive. Interspersed are anecdotes about scary roller window shades, missing the bus, getting tangled up with a barbecue grill. Stories are short and light-hearted, some I wished had gone into more detail as they only skimmed the surface of emotions. This was a pleasant read and a walk through my own memories.
July 15, 2014
If you want to sit down for an afternoon and laugh with a friend, then read this book. Becky Povich puts the cookies on the table, pours the tea, and keeps the conversation going in this delightful memoir. Truth be told, I'm not much of a memoir reader so I worried I might have trouble keeping my head in the book, but Becky's conversational, friendly style drew me in and kept me reading. Many of her vignettes carried me back to my own "younger days," and I have to say that it was a lovely ride.
November 26, 2013
According to Edna St. Vincent Millay, "A person who publishes a book willfully appears before the populace with his pants down." Yep, I'd say that sounds about right. I'd also say someone who's courageous enough to publish her memoir takes it a step farther, because she's not only showing her tush... she's going full Monty, and without benefit of make-up or hair stylist.
Tell ya what, it takes a special leap of faith for someone to volunteer to be that vulnerable to readers' scrutiny, but not only does Povich open up her life for our perusal... she even points a finger at her flaws. Then again, I dunno... she "claims" to be a life-long klutz, but she sure managed to show an awful lot of charm and grace in the way she told her tale. (And plenty of good humor, too.) What's particularly endearing about this memoir is her story could be your story. Or mine. Her childhood memories will resonate with many readers, because she'll make them remember the same songs... the same TV shows... the same toys... the same feelings. Reading this book is as familiar and comfortable as sitting around the kitchen table reminiscing with family and lifelong friends. And in the reading, Povich becomes one of those friends sitting at the table with you, the one who really knows how to tell a story and make you laugh, and she's passing you a plate of freshly-baked cookies to enjoy with your coffee.
I'm not saying there's nothing unique in Povich's memoir. There is. But in deftly forging connections with her readers through common references and recollections, she makes them more likely to care about her, and about her unique trials and tribulations. After all, she's a lifelong friend, right?
[Why, yes, I'd LOVE another cookie, but, um Becky? How's about putting a robe on now, hon... we can't have you catching a chill.]
Tell ya what, it takes a special leap of faith for someone to volunteer to be that vulnerable to readers' scrutiny, but not only does Povich open up her life for our perusal... she even points a finger at her flaws. Then again, I dunno... she "claims" to be a life-long klutz, but she sure managed to show an awful lot of charm and grace in the way she told her tale. (And plenty of good humor, too.) What's particularly endearing about this memoir is her story could be your story. Or mine. Her childhood memories will resonate with many readers, because she'll make them remember the same songs... the same TV shows... the same toys... the same feelings. Reading this book is as familiar and comfortable as sitting around the kitchen table reminiscing with family and lifelong friends. And in the reading, Povich becomes one of those friends sitting at the table with you, the one who really knows how to tell a story and make you laugh, and she's passing you a plate of freshly-baked cookies to enjoy with your coffee.
I'm not saying there's nothing unique in Povich's memoir. There is. But in deftly forging connections with her readers through common references and recollections, she makes them more likely to care about her, and about her unique trials and tribulations. After all, she's a lifelong friend, right?
[Why, yes, I'd LOVE another cookie, but, um Becky? How's about putting a robe on now, hon... we can't have you catching a chill.]
January 7, 2014
(A Memoir and More)
By Becky Lewellen Povich
This memoir is filled with heartfelt stories beginning with growing up in 1950s America’s heartland. I could relate to many of her references. Becky shares vivid tales of being a tomboy playing marbles, climbing trees, and of putting on parades with bicycles and wagons. She recounts stories of parochial school. She is honest about her trials of learning the multiplication tables, and other childhood moments, both good and not so good.
We also meet Becky’s family. She was very close to her father until the family was divided by divorce and miles. This strained her relationship with her father, yet the rest of her family was close. She illustrates this in each touching memory of family vacations holidays, and the ups and downs of life.
Not long after high school, Becky eloped. The next few years were spent as an Army wife, stationed in Germany. She also shares stories of motherhood. There are many tales of this period of her life. Even through the obvious hardships, Becky retained her trademark sense of humour and positive attitude. Though her first marriage ended, Becky shares happy stories from her second marriage.
She is open, honest and very genuine in her writing. There are many funny stories, due to what Becky refers to as having a “klutz gene”. Reading her book is like sitting down with a friend and reminiscing. Her book is both fun and easy to read.
The 1950s were a simpler time in many ways, and Becky reminds us of the simple goodness of growing up in that time. The foundation was set. Becky Lewellen Povich took her roots and continued to grow. In each life experience she found humour and lessons. I am thankful she shares them with us in her writing.
By Becky Lewellen Povich
This memoir is filled with heartfelt stories beginning with growing up in 1950s America’s heartland. I could relate to many of her references. Becky shares vivid tales of being a tomboy playing marbles, climbing trees, and of putting on parades with bicycles and wagons. She recounts stories of parochial school. She is honest about her trials of learning the multiplication tables, and other childhood moments, both good and not so good.
We also meet Becky’s family. She was very close to her father until the family was divided by divorce and miles. This strained her relationship with her father, yet the rest of her family was close. She illustrates this in each touching memory of family vacations holidays, and the ups and downs of life.
Not long after high school, Becky eloped. The next few years were spent as an Army wife, stationed in Germany. She also shares stories of motherhood. There are many tales of this period of her life. Even through the obvious hardships, Becky retained her trademark sense of humour and positive attitude. Though her first marriage ended, Becky shares happy stories from her second marriage.
She is open, honest and very genuine in her writing. There are many funny stories, due to what Becky refers to as having a “klutz gene”. Reading her book is like sitting down with a friend and reminiscing. Her book is both fun and easy to read.
The 1950s were a simpler time in many ways, and Becky reminds us of the simple goodness of growing up in that time. The foundation was set. Becky Lewellen Povich took her roots and continued to grow. In each life experience she found humour and lessons. I am thankful she shares them with us in her writing.
March 15, 2014
From the Militant Recommender Book Review Blog:
http://militantrecommender.blogspot.com/
"From Pigtails to Chin Hairs" is a perfect title to describe this new memoir. Becky writes from the heart and her warmth resonates throughout these essays. You are on Becky's side from page one. Her life has not always been easy but she manages to look for the humor in any given situation. As she writes about her happy childhood growing up in a 1950's neighborhood, the kind of place where kids felt safe and parents didn't worry, you can picture it in all the details. I can, anyway, because that's how I grew up, too! Kids played games together outside or watched black and white TV with the family, a time when watching TV was an event! She adored her handsome father and as the youngest of four siblings got a lot of his attention when he was home from work.
But those happy times will come to an end, and Becky isn't afraid to write about her parents divorce and the hardships that the family dealt with afterwards.
Later on she becomes a young Army wife and mother of a young son who follows her husband to Germany.There is a lot more to Becky's story and I encourage you to get a copy and enjoy this wonderful memoir (it even has cartoons by you know who!), yourself, and if you haven't read her blog, before, be sure to check out here: http://beckypovich.blogspot.com/ !
http://militantrecommender.blogspot.com/
"From Pigtails to Chin Hairs" is a perfect title to describe this new memoir. Becky writes from the heart and her warmth resonates throughout these essays. You are on Becky's side from page one. Her life has not always been easy but she manages to look for the humor in any given situation. As she writes about her happy childhood growing up in a 1950's neighborhood, the kind of place where kids felt safe and parents didn't worry, you can picture it in all the details. I can, anyway, because that's how I grew up, too! Kids played games together outside or watched black and white TV with the family, a time when watching TV was an event! She adored her handsome father and as the youngest of four siblings got a lot of his attention when he was home from work.
But those happy times will come to an end, and Becky isn't afraid to write about her parents divorce and the hardships that the family dealt with afterwards.
Later on she becomes a young Army wife and mother of a young son who follows her husband to Germany.There is a lot more to Becky's story and I encourage you to get a copy and enjoy this wonderful memoir (it even has cartoons by you know who!), yourself, and if you haven't read her blog, before, be sure to check out here: http://beckypovich.blogspot.com/ !
Read
March 15, 2014This book was purchased for me as a gift for my birthday. The gift giver had an ulterior motive; it is their desire to encourage me to write a memoir of my own. If it could only be as easy as Becky makes it look.
Her words seem to flow onto the page as easily as if we were sitting down to a ‘girlfriends’ brunch and reminiscing about our lives over mimosas. Becky doesn’t pull any punches and takes you to the highs and lows of her life alike. It’s mixed with humor, pathos, and most important honesty. I could feel her pain at the many disappointments, but also her joy, and ability to laugh at the complexity of life. She paints a vivid picture of her humanness as well as that of her family. I felt as though I could easily laugh and cry with her, as well as rejoice at the triumph of her many successes.
Certainly a ‘must read’ for anyone contemplating putting pen to paper in an attempt to record their own memories, but also a most pleasant way to pass an afternoon acquainting yourself with a delightful woman who has managed to look at life from all sides and come out smiling.
Her words seem to flow onto the page as easily as if we were sitting down to a ‘girlfriends’ brunch and reminiscing about our lives over mimosas. Becky doesn’t pull any punches and takes you to the highs and lows of her life alike. It’s mixed with humor, pathos, and most important honesty. I could feel her pain at the many disappointments, but also her joy, and ability to laugh at the complexity of life. She paints a vivid picture of her humanness as well as that of her family. I felt as though I could easily laugh and cry with her, as well as rejoice at the triumph of her many successes.
Certainly a ‘must read’ for anyone contemplating putting pen to paper in an attempt to record their own memories, but also a most pleasant way to pass an afternoon acquainting yourself with a delightful woman who has managed to look at life from all sides and come out smiling.
June 7, 2014
If you grew up in the 1950's and 1960's, you will LOVE this book! And even if you didn't, it will make that era come vividly to life for you. It's filled with humorous vignettes, but like any good memoir, it's also about life. And as we all know, life isn't always rosy.
I am a child of that era too, and even though Becky grew up in Missouri and I grew up in Massachusetts, sometimes I felt like Becky and I shared the same childhood! We watched the same TV shows, played marbles in our driveways and made potholders that we sold to our neighbors. (Did everybody do that???)
Her writing is witty and her storytelling skills masterful. And she knows just how and when, in the middle of the stories of happy times, to foreshadow some harder times to come. Her prose is alternately laugh-out-loud funny and poignant. Becky says there will be a sequel to this memoir, and I can't wait to read it.
I am a child of that era too, and even though Becky grew up in Missouri and I grew up in Massachusetts, sometimes I felt like Becky and I shared the same childhood! We watched the same TV shows, played marbles in our driveways and made potholders that we sold to our neighbors. (Did everybody do that???)
Her writing is witty and her storytelling skills masterful. And she knows just how and when, in the middle of the stories of happy times, to foreshadow some harder times to come. Her prose is alternately laugh-out-loud funny and poignant. Becky says there will be a sequel to this memoir, and I can't wait to read it.
August 29, 2016
I won From Pigtails to Chin Hairs: A Memoir and More by Becky Lewellen Povich from Goodreads.
Becky Lewellen Povich's book, From Pigtails to Chin Hairs, takes readers on a journey that is often funny, nostalgic, sad, and encouraging. Becky's inner strength always shines through as she navigates the difficulties that life threw her way, and readers celebrate with her as she succeeds.
Povich's book is also inspirational for writers who may have allowed hurdles and doubts to keep them from achieving their dreams.
From Pigtails to Chin Hairs is a wonderful book for any reader who enjoys revisiting a childhood of the fifties and sixties, as well as memoir enthusiasts of any age.
Becky Lewellen Povich's book, From Pigtails to Chin Hairs, takes readers on a journey that is often funny, nostalgic, sad, and encouraging. Becky's inner strength always shines through as she navigates the difficulties that life threw her way, and readers celebrate with her as she succeeds.
Povich's book is also inspirational for writers who may have allowed hurdles and doubts to keep them from achieving their dreams.
From Pigtails to Chin Hairs is a wonderful book for any reader who enjoys revisiting a childhood of the fifties and sixties, as well as memoir enthusiasts of any age.
February 4, 2014
Everyone who grew up in the 50's/60's should read this book. I wasn't even out of the first chapter when I thought, "this could be my life, with a few changes." It brought back so many memories! Becky Povich is such a skilled writer, and she knows just how to move the reader on to the next chapter. I almost read it in one sitting, but my husband was complaining that the bedside light was keeping him awake. This woman has such a keen survival spirit, and such a wonderful outlook. I highly recommend this book! And I may just read it again!!!!!
May 9, 2014
I was born the same year as the author, so in many ways could relate to things she wrote about and enjoyed the memories. She has an easy conversational style, as if you were reminiscing with an old friend. She shares the good and bad things in her life, but overall seems very upbeat and positive, which inspires.
This author does love her exclamation marks!
I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
This author does love her exclamation marks!
I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
October 20, 2014
This was such an enjoyable book to read. It's one you don't want to put down once you start it. I even made notes of things the author and I have in common that I want to tell her about some day. Very sweet book. Can't wait for more from this talented author! Highly recommend to anyone of any age!
June 13, 2016
I won this book as a Goodreads Giveaway. I love to read memoirs. This one starts with the author and her memories as a young girl. It then takes you through the many stages of her life. Each chapter was something new. It kept the reading fresh and interesting.
Want to read
July 24, 2016I gave this book to a friend here in Seniors' Housing. She requested it. I'm now awaiting her review.
February 24, 2021
I read 66 percent of this book and lost interest. I tried to finish it later and found myself paging forward through chapters trying to find one I might find interesting and just gave up. The writing was fair. The book consists of chapters with each focusing on a particular subject. The chapters jump from one time in her life to another and are not linear. I do not have a problem with that but I would have arranged the chapters in a different order. I found the author did too much telling and not enough showing. There is little dialogue.
July 17, 2020
I connected with Becky's description of growing up in the fifties and sixties. Her cherished memories sometimes made me sad, often made me laugh, and left me with an appreciation of the journey she's traveled. From a fractured little girl, struggling to understand divorce, to a vibrant caring woman who battled her way through many challenges, Becky shares her humor and wisdom with the world in this well-written memoir.
August 15, 2022
1st part of book was fun & entertaining & after that it just seem to jump around. I did enjoy it, since I grew up in the same area of Southern Illinois.
May 18, 2015
Memoir of a mid-western childhood and the author's experiences with marriage and family.
Becky Lewellen Povich writes in a humorous, conversational style that pokes fun at herself and her subjects even while hitting on points of deep truth and honest emotion. She starts with her earliest memories and travels through her own girlhood with an objective and generally forgiving eye. And it isn't all Golden Oldies, television shows, and trips to grandma's house. A sudden and painful divorce not only robbed the author of her father, who moved away, but also of her mother, a difficult and complicated personality.
Through Llewellen Povich's poignant recollections, we witness how her efforts to rebel against her mother's smothering hold lead to a hasty first marriage and early motherhood. The union ends with a dramatic escape by mother and child from an army base in Germany. Years later, the author would enjoy a more successful partnership. Though even a happy marriage isn't insulation against life's tragedies, as we learn through Lewellen Povich's story of flying home after seeing her terminally ill older sister, a person who repeatedly stepped into the breach with the emotional support that their mother wouldn't or couldn't provide.
The chapters of this memoir are presented in roughly chronological order, but one doesn't necessarily directly lead to the next in terms of topic. Lewellen Povich's recollections meander a bit, the way human memory does as we look back and try to make sense of the people and experiences that weave in and out of our lives. Yet, despite the skipping from episode to episode, the author's chipper voice and honest spirit provide a continuous thread that guides the reader through. The only portion that I personally would have left out are the writing exercises at the very end. Interesting as they are, they don't seem to fully mesh with the larger narrative.
Overall, I enjoyed FROM PIGTAILS TO CHIN HAIRS. It demonstrates the importance of our own particular lives and the power of memory.
Becky Lewellen Povich writes in a humorous, conversational style that pokes fun at herself and her subjects even while hitting on points of deep truth and honest emotion. She starts with her earliest memories and travels through her own girlhood with an objective and generally forgiving eye. And it isn't all Golden Oldies, television shows, and trips to grandma's house. A sudden and painful divorce not only robbed the author of her father, who moved away, but also of her mother, a difficult and complicated personality.
Through Llewellen Povich's poignant recollections, we witness how her efforts to rebel against her mother's smothering hold lead to a hasty first marriage and early motherhood. The union ends with a dramatic escape by mother and child from an army base in Germany. Years later, the author would enjoy a more successful partnership. Though even a happy marriage isn't insulation against life's tragedies, as we learn through Lewellen Povich's story of flying home after seeing her terminally ill older sister, a person who repeatedly stepped into the breach with the emotional support that their mother wouldn't or couldn't provide.
The chapters of this memoir are presented in roughly chronological order, but one doesn't necessarily directly lead to the next in terms of topic. Lewellen Povich's recollections meander a bit, the way human memory does as we look back and try to make sense of the people and experiences that weave in and out of our lives. Yet, despite the skipping from episode to episode, the author's chipper voice and honest spirit provide a continuous thread that guides the reader through. The only portion that I personally would have left out are the writing exercises at the very end. Interesting as they are, they don't seem to fully mesh with the larger narrative.
Overall, I enjoyed FROM PIGTAILS TO CHIN HAIRS. It demonstrates the importance of our own particular lives and the power of memory.
August 7, 2015
One of the things I most appreciated about Becky Povich’s memoir, From Pigtails to Chin Hairs, is her homespun voice. Much of the memoir I read has been edited and polished to a gleam. I’m a huge fan of eloquent prose, but more than once I’ve wondered if polishing a story to a high gleam, pleasing to professional eyes, may have sacrificed some of its soul. Further discussion of that point is beyond the bounds of this review. Besides, nobody will wonder that about Becky’s book. It has the natural, raw, intensely real feel of a log cabin or hand-stitched quilt.
I was touched by her constant candor. Who would think of including an embarrassing restroom scene from grade school? That humbly real account lit up the book early on. I ping-ponged along with her through various mother-related emotions, taking heart when she finally summed things up: “I’ve come to the conclusion that although I loved her, I didn’t really know her, and I resented her.” A thrillingly brave statement! My heart melted when she received a personal letter from her shero, Doris Day, and I held my breath when Tupperware time rolled around. My heart pounded while she was in Germany, calming down only when she and her baby were airborne, headed back to the USA. I seldom cry as I read, but her sister’s death broke my heart.
While the story is basically chronological, the structure is satisfyingly complex. She mixes chronology and detailed narrative with uplifting, humorous reflection. One statement seems to sum things up: “I know everything that happened in my life has made me who I am today.” Maybe the fact that I share that perspective made the book resonate especially well with me throughout.
I was touched by her constant candor. Who would think of including an embarrassing restroom scene from grade school? That humbly real account lit up the book early on. I ping-ponged along with her through various mother-related emotions, taking heart when she finally summed things up: “I’ve come to the conclusion that although I loved her, I didn’t really know her, and I resented her.” A thrillingly brave statement! My heart melted when she received a personal letter from her shero, Doris Day, and I held my breath when Tupperware time rolled around. My heart pounded while she was in Germany, calming down only when she and her baby were airborne, headed back to the USA. I seldom cry as I read, but her sister’s death broke my heart.
While the story is basically chronological, the structure is satisfyingly complex. She mixes chronology and detailed narrative with uplifting, humorous reflection. One statement seems to sum things up: “I know everything that happened in my life has made me who I am today.” Maybe the fact that I share that perspective made the book resonate especially well with me throughout.
March 1, 2016
I received this book in a giveaway. What a fun, easy read! Becky Lewellen Povich has a clear, easy, and informal way of telling her memoirs that makes the reader feel like a friend hearing old tales. She's managed to create a collection of highlights from several decades of her life that encompass every aspect of the typical life: joy, sadness, embarrassment, pride, and so many more. Regardless of their ages and experiences readers can relate to these snippets that Becky has shared. I thoroughly enjoyed and look forward to reading another of her books.
January 2, 2016
I won this book on Goodreads.
This book was an entertaining series of short stories about Ms Povich's life growing up in the 50's and to present day. As she and I are very nearly the exact same age I enjoyed and related to her stories. The tales brought back more than a few memories of my own. She has a lovely way with words and it makes for a quick and enjoyable read. Some of the stories are sad, some funny and some purely enjoyable.
This book was an entertaining series of short stories about Ms Povich's life growing up in the 50's and to present day. As she and I are very nearly the exact same age I enjoyed and related to her stories. The tales brought back more than a few memories of my own. She has a lovely way with words and it makes for a quick and enjoyable read. Some of the stories are sad, some funny and some purely enjoyable.
January 6, 2016
I won this book on goodreads and it was an interesting story of life in the 1950s to the present. It started off as as a story , but the last few chapters were more like short articles and not in order. The author tries not to dwell on the bad things that happened but it still sounds like her life was very hard.
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