A WOMAN'S PLACE

Author: Lynn Austin ISBN: 0764228900 11/2006 HISTORICAL Publisher: BETHANY HOUSE
Time Period: WW II (early 1940's)

They watched their sons, their brothers, and their husbands enlist to fight a growing menace across the seas. And when their nation asked, they answered the call as well... Virginia longs to find a purpose beyond others' expectations Helen is driven by a loneliness money can't fulfill Rosa is desperate to flee her in-laws' rules Jean hopes to prove herself in a man's world Under the storm clouds of destruction that threaten America during the early 1940s, this unlikely gathering of women will experience life in sometimes starling new ways as their beliefs are challenged and they struggle toward a new understanding of what love and sacrifice truly mean.

RRAH's THOUGHTS AND PONDERINGS:

The life and times of four woman, answering the calls of their country during WWII, is depicted beautifully in the new novel by Lynn Austin titled A WOMAN'S PLACE.

Austin writes about the intersecting lives of four very different women working at a local factory in Seneca, Michigan, in the early 1940's. Each woman is trying to do something useful to aid America during WWII, and while working they form a friendship that will aid them in their own personal lives.

Virginia Mitchell is a housewife whose life has become mundane and she starts to feel invisible to her family. As she begins working in the factory, her husband is soon to discover that his meek and mild wife is become a strong, independent woman.

Helen Kimball, a retired elementary school teacher, tries to prove to others that she is just as worthy to work as they are. Lonely and depressed, Helen is soon going to find the friendships that she desperately needs.

Rosa Voorhees is newlywed to a sailor. She's living with his in-laws and trying to gain their love and acceptance without having to conform to their strict ways.

Jean Erickson is trying to find her way in a time when the traditional roles of men and woman are being altered.

A WOMAN'S WORLD is an engaging look at the roles that woman played during WWII. Austin used these four distinct personalities to personify how the roles of men and woman changed during the war. At times both frustrating and encouraging, the lives of these four women will never be the same.

Although the story is a bit predictable, and the shuffling between the characters a bit tiresome at times, A WOMAN'S WORLD is an inspirational read that is well written with motivating characters. A recommend read.

Julie Kornhausl