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There are currently 33 member reviews
for Becoming Madam Secretary
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Jayda Justus, The History Mom
A hidden woman from history shines in the spotlight
Dray is one of my favorite historical fiction writers for her highly detailed yet readable looks at hidden women from history. Uncovering the life story of Frances Perkins was so interesting, especially since I had always heard her name in the musical "Annie" with no idea who she was! Dray follows Perkins from her early twenties as a child labor crusader in the horrific early 20th century New York City factories to her appointment as the first woman on a presidential cabinet. What an amazing woman!
I like how Dray set up Perkins' relationship with FDR; it didn't start out as positive but it became the most important one of her life. My favorite relationship was her friendship with Mary Harriman, the founder of the Junior League. Reading through the turmoil in Perkins' own personal life was so sad, and I was amazed that she could focus on her work and the plight of others with these struggles.
Perkins' legacy is one that affects us all in our day-to-day lives from labor laws to Social Security. I am glad that she is getting her time in the spotlight.
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Julie M. (Coon Rapids, MN)
Historical Fiction
I enjoyed this book. This book will appeal to fans of Marie Benedict or anyone who loves historical fiction about strong women.
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Ruthie A. (Jersey City, NJ)
Important Woman Unknown
Miss Perkins was a woman who defied societal norms to fight for change in American society. Raised in modest circumstances she became friends with a group of New York elite women who shared her passions and helped her achieve many outstanding achievements that changed the lives of every American. If you thought child labor barbaric, she fought and succeeded in having it outlawed. Safer workplaces, Social Security & many other programs that protect workers, children and the elderly were ideas she proposed to leaders, including President Roosevelt.
The author has availed herself of much existing research and brought this admirable woman and her work to life. At times her characters felt rather flat, and the tone seemed superficial. Miss Perkins' life was not an easy one, but she was resilient and committed to social change. She deserves to be well-known, her story shared and taught in schools. The novel was a bit long, but there was so much territory to cover. This was an easy read, interesting and informative.
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Catherine T. (Petaluma, CA)
A Reminder of Our Past
Becoming Madam Secretary demonstrates how persistent, patient and effective Frances Perkins was in her personal and professional life and how it helped her navigate her way in government and to ultimately effect great change.
The book reads quickly and keeps the reader's attention. It starts at a challenging crossroad in Ms. Perkins life, and takes us back to her young adulthood and through her time as Secretary of Labor. Stephanie Dray conducted extensive research in preparing to write this book and it shows.
How interesting that everyone in America knows about Social Security, but few know about the architect and tireless woman is behind it. And it's only one of Francis Perkin's many accomplishments.
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Barbara G. (Dallas, GA)
Becoming Madam Secretary
I found the story very interesting and informative. I, however, did not enjoy the writing style. I found it very simplistic as women's fiction can be.
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