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Summary: He does a great job of bringing an old world to life
Review: MARY'S WORLD is an incredible look at the two decades prior to, the Civil War itself, and the subsequent aftermath. Archivist-writer Richard N. Cote evaluated and categorized over 2500 handwritten pages of entries and journals written by Southern aristocrat Mary Motte Alston Pringle. In her own words, we learn much about antebellum South plantation life, especially the owner-family and the manor house slaves. Even more to the point, is the effect of the Civil War and its aftermath that ended a lifestyle, leaving individuals in shock and struggling to cope (or die) with more than just the deaths of loved ones as the iceberg is turned upside down almost over night. This autobiographical compilation is extremely interesting for those historical readers who devour anything Americana, especially things related to the Civil War. The journal and letters keep the audience fascinated in a voyeur like look because it is obvious that Mary hid little, as she was writing for herself and not mass publication. It is that open glimpse that makes this a fabulous non-fiction work, which will lead the audience seeking Mr. Cote's other memoir compilation, SAFE HOUSE, as this reviewer plans to do. Harriet Klausner
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Summary: Mary's World: Love, War, and Family ties in Nineteenth-centu
Review: This is one of the best books I have read. It brings Mary and her family to life, you will feel as though you know them. I just returned from a trip to Charleston SC and was able to visit Mary's home, her grave, her pew in St Michael's Church, etc. You will LOVE this book, it is beautifully written for all ages. Young people would enjoy this immensely while obtaining a real understanding of the everyday life of a planter family in 19th century Charleston.
Rating:
Summary: Mary's World
Review: What an unbelievable picture Mr. Cote' paints for readers in "Mary's World". It was one of those books that grabbed my attention and never let go. I was sorry to reach the end, as I was so enthralled with this account of Mrs. Pringles life. Details derived from personal letters, give you an account of her life from a naive & idealistic bride to an older woman, who has endured many changes and hardships. This spring I'll be visiting Charleston South Carolina and I will be anxious to see the home, and visit Gibbes Art gallery to see some of the portraits mentioned in the book. Agreeing with a previous reviewer, I believe this is the best book I've read this year and would highly recommend it to anyone.
Rating:
Summary: Mary's World
Review: What an unbelievable picture Mr. Cote' paints for readers in "Mary's World". It was one of those books that grabbed my attention and never let go. I was sorry to reach the end, as I was so enthralled with this account of Mrs. Pringles life. Details derived from personal letters, give you an account of her life from a naive & idealistic bride to an older woman, who has endured many changes and hardships. This spring I'll be visiting Charleston South Carolina and I will be anxious to see the home, and visit Gibbes Art gallery to see some of the portraits mentioned in the book. Agreeing with a previous reviewer, I believe this is the best book I've read this year and would highly recommend it to anyone.
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