Bluestocking

by Helen Fletcher

* from USA. Will take 25-35 days

Paperback

Published January 1, 1986

Reviews

[Zade · Rating 4 out of 5]

Helen Fletcher's abbreviated autobiography is surprisingly engaging and touching. Although the author died before recounting her life past the age of 18, she does such a remarkable job of conveying the sufferings and musings of her younger self that one really feels as if one knows her.

Although Fletcher grew up in England during the first World War and inter-war years, her account will resonate with anyone who grew up in a family or society that was grossly out of sync with her own nature. Her observations are astute and her sentiments will likely strike a familiar chord with many a former bookish girl.

Since this is merely a published draft--one that Fletcher would likely be appalled to see out in the world without extensive revision--the writing is uneven. Some parts verge on brilliance while others are more quotidian. The voice alternates between what seems to be an accurate reinvention of Fletcher's childhood personality and the more knowing adult observer. Holding the whole together is the confidential and friendly tone Fletcher developed in her professional writing as a movie critic. With only a few exceptions, the book feels like a conversation, as if a dear friend were recounting her life to someone in whom she felt sure of finding a understanding audience.

[Beth Shields-Szostak]

remainder mark