Assessment:

Plot: This fascinating and, at times, challenging tale of one woman’s journey to find herself is full of emotion and stark, uncomfortable truths. The deeply personal narrative reveals a vulnerability that is as painful as it is endearing.

Prose: The depth and breadth of detail and backstory—needed to set the stage for Santarelli's later decisions—enriches the reading experience but is handled clumsily at times. The repetition of certain themes cements their importance, but also manages to provide small interruptions to the narrative's overall flow. However, the conversational, relatable writing style is enough to captivate readers and keep the pages turning.

Originality: The author manages to invite readers in and share both the good and bad aspects of a life well-lived. The bold examination of an era featuring so much change is refreshing.

Character Development: Santarelli's growth as a person, mother, wife, and nurse is clearly delineated and lovingly detailed. Readers will want to see more about how the momentous decisions changed the author's life, though that may simply be the desire to not see the story end.

Date Submitted: June 03, 2017