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Dorinne D. (Wickenburg, AZ)
Growing Up in the '50s in Rural America
I grew up in Midwest America during the time period covered in this book. So I could relate quite well to the people described as well as many events that took place in this novel. I was however unaware of the prejudices that Emmy encountered in her Minnesota community. Also arranged marriages like the one being foisted upon Emmy were not prevalent in my area. The characters in the story are quite well developed, especially Emmy. I found the story compelling as the author kept you hungry to know what was going to happen to Emmy next.
Terrie J. (Eagan, MN)
Interesting read with surprising storyline
I really enjoyed this book. I didn't expect the Klan story line. I enjoyed reading about Emmy finding the strength to leave her family and then watch her find her independence. The Klan story line really enhanced her having to display her strength and independence during the 50s.
I thought Amy Scheibe did a good job of describing the tumultuous time period without graphically describing the horrid events.
I would definitely recommend this book.
Christine B. (Lilydale, MN)
Secrets Abound
I enjoyed this book but I found myself becoming annoyed at the naivete of the main protagonist. It almost seemed incongruous that she would join the world of journalism considering her extremely sheltered life and all the family secrets she became aware of. That being said, it was a good and interesting read.
Kathy G. (Alamo, CA)
A Fireproof Home for The Bride
I enjoyed reading a story about growing up in the fifties. References to the music were fun and very enjoyable. The writer has a nice style and is very good at developing the story lines. I did find Emily a little problematic as Leslie G stated in her review. I agree that it was hard to believe that Emily had the personality or the experience to draw people to be so interested in her. This is especially true of the older newspaperman, Jim.
Dianne S. (Green Valley, AZ)
Mixed Feelings
I chose to review A Fireproof Home for the Bride because I grew up in Colorado and Wyoming so I felt I had a feel for the area, I like the1950's and knew a little of its history, plus I liked the title. Well this book shared none of these preconceived notions.
While reading A Fireproof Home for the Bride my eyes were opened to the discrimination of immigrants, race, religions and of women in that region and at that time. I bounced from revulsion to disgust with only a slight feeling of happiness peeking in on occasion.
I think the book was well written and worth reading, but I certainly wouldn't recommend it to
…more someone looking for an uplifting read. (less)
Freya H. (Phoenix, AZ)
The 50's
The period of time in which I was growing up. Certainly the times have changed, but maybe not by as much as we would like. This story is not only engrossing, but the characters, carefully drawn, are ones you care about. In particular, the strength of Emily is inspiring as she struggles for independence at a time when a good deal of unrest may have caused even the strongest person to crumble. This would be a good choice for any Book Club.
Beth B. (New Wilmington, PA)
What Lies Beyond the Present Moment?
Amy Scheibe is an articulate writer with the ability to allow readers an access into the mind of the main character, Emmy. How quickly one can mature when the decision has been made to face reality, going beyond what was once a dream into the sickening horror of long-hidden family history!! I suppose one might term this a coming-of-age tale of an eighteen year old who learns to delve beyond face value. One has to admire Emmy's courage as she encounters bigotry, the dangers of misused power, and deceit. I find the title to be the book's biggest drawback -- it certainly did not attract me until I read the synopsis.
…more A book club could have a lively discussion as to what a better title could have been. Midway through reading, I had the feeling that my interest was waning -- perhaps the book was a trifle too long. (less)OK so the first 3rd of the book was a plodding and bleak description of sexism in a stoic North Dakota Protestant family in the 50s. The middle of the book was an interesting and entertaining story of a young girl chaffing against those restraints, questioning societal norms and forging her own way. The final portion was a crazy Nancy Drew mystery wrap-up that I felt went way overboard in the outlandish plot twist department. After the first 100 pages - it was engaging, but the end cheapened the coming of age story.
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