About book The Persecution Of Mildred Dunlap (2000)
Another fabulous read by this author! What I particularly like about her books is that they leave me feeling good about life. The funny thing is that the author tackles heavy weight subjects such as cancer in the previous book I read and at the heart of this book we have a lesbian relationship at the end of the 19th century, when the word 'gay' had an entirely different meaning. However, though the lesbian relationship is central to the story this is not a romance or a strident voice for human rights. It is a far gentler, emotional story about real people trying to live their lives in difficult circumstances. We see people's prejudices including homophobia, racism, anti-Semitism and religious hypocrisy but ultimately we have a story about how love and friendship are more important than anything else. I loved that the author did not hit me over the head with a heavy hammer to make her points. She lays out a story without condemning the majority of people with their varied prejudices but leaves us to be grateful that we live in more enlightened times. There is also the thought that the author is reminding us that though we have come a long way with tackling prejudice we still have a great deal further to go! The story is beautifully written and there are some lovely little touches such as the ongoing quotes of Oscar Wilde who features prominently at the beginning of the book. The next time you are fed up of hearing all the bad news in the world pick up one of this author's books and feel better about life. Mildred and Edra are a compassionate, quiet lesbian couple, planted in 1895 Nevada. Having the financial means to be quite helpful to the community and individuals, they are also passionate about protecting their lifestyle from a community "run over" by a group of gossipy, prejudiced women. A powerful story with a message that touches hearts and makes us think -- while, at the same time, an enjoyable story with texture, detail, historical references, and containing many levels. Wrapping historical events into the writing of this novel was brilliant! (And educational!) There were a number of prominent characters besides the two or three main ones, and all were well-developed, carrying depth, color and nuance. // This work was very well-edited, which always makes reading a particular pleasure. My only negative comment is about the occasional use of some modern terminology within the story. Phrases like "freaking out," and others I can't recall. // A wonderful and penetrating read on so many levels. Loved this novel, and will read it again.
Do You like book The Persecution Of Mildred Dunlap (2000)?
A very touching tale about humanity and struggling against all odds.
—shiku
only read one chapter, did not like the subject matter.
—Beth
Excellent book regarding human nature and tolerance.
—kallie
