Loud and Clear

I am living proof that one need not agree with Anna on politics to enjoy her writing. As a Republican, I find myself at odds with just about every political stance she takes, but I so admire her style of writing that I want to read on to see how she is going to present her ideas, and I am never disappointed by that presentation. I recommend this book to all aspiring writers as a guide to the craft of essay writing.

The essays in LOUD AND CLEAR cover a variety of subjects from motherhood, welfare, and feminism in an engaging and witty way.If you enjoyed Anna Quindlin's columns in Newsweek or the NYTimes, or just enjoy great writing, you'll definately enjoy this book. Debbie Farmer, author of 'Don't Put Lipstick on the Cat!'

Every woman wishes she had an "Anna Quindlen girlfriend," that wise woman who is living the same life you are, but sees the real meaning behind everyday events. Loud and Clear is the next best thing, a collection of columns and speeches that reflect her unique gift. You trust her because her values and love for her family shine through. Use it for your book group to weed out the people you don't like -- they won't get it. Give it to the women you do like -- they will.

Popular novelist, Pulitzer Prize winning columnist Anna Quindlen is a phenomenon. To read her is to be invigorated, inspired, and informed. To hear her read her work is to press this audio on friends, saying, "You simply have to listen to this!" First written for the New York Times and Newsweek, this selection of articles is penned in trademark Quindlenese - candid, provocative, thoughtful, and insightful. Few subjects escape her discerning eye as she thinks aloud about raising children, politics, the aftermath of 9/11, global events, and more. People Magazine said, ".....Quindlen is so good that even when you disagree with what she says, you still love the way she says it." How true. One marvels at her artful phrasing, her sagacity and sense of humor. Listening to "Loud and Clear" is both a privilege and a pleasure. - Gail Cooke

I was a big fan of Anna Quindlen's column, Life in the Thirties. Each time I read a piece by her, it spoke to me-almost sang-made me feel like I not only knew her, but myself a little bit better. I missed her while she was "gone" but read and enjoyed her fiction as well. This newest collection of columns/essays/speeches, Loud and Clear, is just that: Anna Quindlen loud and clear. With pieces ranging from the early 90s, interspersed with her more recent work, she allows us a glimpse back into the years when her children were still quite young-to the world she faces today as a woman in her fifties and on the threshold of an empty nest. We get to grow and evolve with her as she points out the obvious, makes clear the hazier issues, and always, with refreshing honestly, makes us feel as if we know her as well as we know our next door neighbor. I especially enjoyed, "Fall from the Nest," (as it made me think about everything we do to protect our children) "17 going on 18," (a warning to young people who take up cigarette smoking), and "Anniversary," (which made me miss my mother, dead since 1999.) While many won't agree with her politics, I believe Quindlen puts into words the things we all feel in our hearts, minds, bodies and souls. I highly recommend this book. Thank you for the opportunity to review it. Michele Cozzens, Author of A Line Between Friends and The Things I Wish I'd Said.