Other Women

Being a Southerner myself and born about the same time as the characters, I could really relate to this very interesting, sometimes quirky, alternately funny and grim story. This book is full of irony, mischief, and a whole lot of truth. I was involved in so many of the "movements" of the 60's. Alther's book often made me squirm. Were we really that self-righteous, hypocritical and plain dumb? I guess at times we were. Highly readable and very informative as well as good fun, that's Original Sins. I am eager to lend it to friends, especially a friend who was in her 40's when she first came to the USA.

One of the best books I have read in a while. I just couldn't put it down until I had finished it, and then I was sad that it was over. This book has everything: Humor, compassion, wisdom, insight, and great characters. It makes you think deeply about your own life and your relationships. The slow transformation of the main character Caroline is fascinating as she goes through therapy and takes a critical look at herself and her past. I have bought copies for all my friends to read and they all liked it just as much. If you tend to get depressed during the winter months, read this book as it may not only cheer you up but may also give you a fresh new perspective on your life.

I flew through this story about young people growing up in a small town in Tennessee. The characters are interesting -- each one at first glance seems like a quick stereotype of the usual high school suspects -- but there is so much more to learn about them. If you like small town Southern novels, with the extras of civil rights, labor union struggles, and feminism thrown on top -- this is a good read