Ladies: A Conjecture of Personalities

Rating:
Summary: Ladies: A Conjecture of Personalities
Review: I found Feather Schwartz Foster's book on the First Ladies to be witty and original. She brings the First Ladies to life in a way that is almost autobiographical. Although the book is fiction, it is historically accurate. After reading the book, I felt as though I had gotten to know the First Ladies on a personal level. I can not recommend this book high enough, especially for the serious historical reader.

Rating:
Summary: Fabulous
Review: Ladies: A Conjecture of Personalities is such a pleasure to read and there is so much in it that is revealing, interesting, and enjoyable. The author has brought up points that make one rethink our history. I reccommend it to anyone and everyone who is at all fascinated with our country's past and why we are the way we are.

Rating:
Summary: Unique & Imaginative
Review: Ladies: A Conjecture of Personalities is witty, wise, and wonderful. This book, part fact, part fiction, takes us into the heart and soul of some very important women that most of us don't know very well. The thirty First Ladies, who are referred to as the "more obscure", are introduced in chronological order, starting with Martha Washington. The author, Feather Schwartz Foster, takes us on a history tour of these fascinating women married to men who at one time held the title of President of the United States.

What is so very clever about this book, are the dialogue boxes. Each chapter focuses on one First Lady, written from her perspective according to her day and age. Throughout each chapter are dialogue boxes filled with comments, facts, musings, and opinions from other First Ladies. The result is a fun and informative way to learn more about the women who lived in the White House over a period of 138 years. I've always thought of history as dry and dull. This book however, makes it fun and fascinating. After reading it, I had a much better appreciation for all of the former First Ladies, as well as a strong admiration for Foster, who provides us with a glimpse into the past in the most unique and imaginative way.