Like One of the Family: Conversations from a Domestic's Life

This is an excellent book, and although it refers to the experiences of black women in the US of the 1950s, it is revealing of contemporary experiences of many immigrant women of Latino or European origin that work as maids in Europe and North America. The book is a series of short stories that each has its own 'morale'. It is written in an easy and simple language with a good dose of humour, even though it conveys very complex and insightful thoughts. A great reading for any age from adolescence upwards. Highly recommended for people who have been on either side of the coin (i.e. as domestic workers or as employers).

Like One of the Family by Alice Childress is an excellent book. It reminds me of the stories that my mother use to and quite often still do tell me. My mother use to be a maid some 35 years ago. Some of the stories shared in the book are similiar to the stories that my mom tells me about quite frequently. This book makes me laugh and cry. I can truly feel the characters joys and pains. It transcends me back to a time that I can only relate to by storytelling. A college professor required me to read this book. I have read it more than two times and quite often refer back to it for a connection with my ancestors. I often share some of the stories with my mom. She's often amazed at how an artist was able to put such honesty and realization in text. I salute Alice Childress!