Father Struck It Rich

Rating:
Summary: Incredible insight to the life of privilege and power
Review: "Father Struck It Rich" was written in 1936, long before it became popular to write a "tell-all" about one's famous life. This autobiography by Evalyn Walsh McLean is a refreshingly honest story of a life shaped by wealth and power near the turn of the century. She was raised in the Colorado mountains by parents who instilled a sense of responsibility and kindness in their daughter. Her life changed when her father "struck it rich" in the Ouray mountains. After moving to Washington, she became part of the inner circle of the wealthy and powerful. She led a life of extravagance and eventually married Ned McLean, heir to the Washington Post. She is well known for having acquired the Hope Diamond. Of course, she suffered great tragedy in her life with the premature deaths of her beloved brother and son and the eventual loss of her great wealth. However, she does not attribute these misfortunes to the famous stone. She gives a frank account of living amongst the rich and powerful and entertaining kings and presidents. Unfortunately, her husband was spoiled by money (mostly her's) and influence and never rose to greatness, even as a husband. She later raised her three children without the trappings of great wealth and tried to give back to society using the principles taught to her by her parents. The one thing that she clings to is her father's idea that there is no true generosity in giving money if the giver has much money. Unless you give of yourself, it costs nothing and therefore means nothing. She teaches us that "money does not bring the big things in life-friends, health, respect-it is so apt to make one soft and selfish." Love of others and peace in your soul are ingredients to happiness. The book leaves the reader wanting to know even more about the end of her life and the lives of her children. Great reading!