Forever Erma: Best-Loved Writing from America's Favorite Philosopher [Large Print]

Erma Bombeck was a genius. I'm sure she was far too modest to admit it, but she was one of the greatest humorists of the 20th century. And her words still resonate here in the 21st. Most people think she wrote only for housewives, or women in general, but as a guy (and a humor columnist myself), I can say that she wrote for anyone who has ever had or been part of a family, which means everyone. This book is, in my opinion, her best because it is undiluted Erma. Humor works better over the short haul, and these columns, grouped thematically and filled with her warm, self-deprecating, gently subversive wit, are the finest and most lasting representation of her work. Even though the pieces were written between 1965 and 1996, they still hold up. They are, in fact, timeless. Hence, the title, "Forever, Erma." I told you she was a genius.

Why we loved Erma and miss her is right here. She made you feel good about your mistakes. Suddenly being a fallen human made you feel superior to those who were too perfect to admit it!

I loved Erma Bombeck from the beginning. Her ability to make you laugh without being mean or crude, to see the humor in any situation, to be dignified and tolerant without being forceful about it. These make her a unique person.This is a collection of some of her best columns. She knew the world could be mean, cruel, bitter, and unfair, yet she never was any of these things. She was a great writer and a great person.I love the tribute section of this book, though the story from her husband made me cry. It was April 22, 1996 and the ride was over.

After Erma Bombeck's death, editors Donna Martin and Alan McDermott created this collection of best Bombeck stories. It blends her life experiences and philosophies, and those of others close to her by weaving the former news articles and stories with her unique thread of humor and poignancy. The reader can enjoy watching the pitfalls and highlights of a growing family and the author growing both as a woman and an a writer. Pick it up on your next trip to the bookstore or library. You'll laugh, cry, and be totally delighted.

I have loved Erma since the early years of motherhood. I was so saddened by her death. This book, however, has allowed me to remember how much I could identify with her writings. I could relate to the early years since the date of each of the entries was listed. I recommend this book to anyone who loved and enjoyed Erma.