Who is this book for?
- Readers who are interested in American history, particularly the civil rights era and social movements of the 1960s, would likely enjoy this book.
- It would appeal to those fascinated by personal accounts of historical events and the experiences of women coming of age in mid-20th century America.
- Academics, historians, and those interested in the development of social consciousness among privileged white Americans during this period would find value in Faust's perspective.
- Baby boomers or those curious about that generation's formative experiences might also appreciate the memoir's insights and reflections.
Who is unlikely to appreciate this book?
- Readers seeking a more introspective or emotionally vulnerable memoir might be disappointed by the book's historical focus and sometimes detached tone.
- Those looking for a comprehensive life story may be frustrated that it ends at Faust's college graduation.
- Individuals sensitive to issues of privilege or seeking more diverse perspectives on the civil rights movement might find the author's position problematic.
- Readers preferring lighter, more personal memoirs or those uninterested in detailed historical context might struggle to engage with the book's academic style and political focus.
Things online reviewers enjoyed about this book
- Provides a unique perspective on growing up in the segregated South during the 1950s and 1960s
- Offers insight into the civil rights movement and anti-war activism from a firsthand participant
- Well-written and thoughtful memoir by a distinguished historian
- Captures the social and political changes of the mid-20th century through personal experience
- Explores themes of gender roles, privilege, and social justice
- Provides historical context through family history and broader societal events
- Engagingly written with moments of vulnerability and humor
- Offers a window into the experiences that shaped a prominent academic and leader
- Resonates with readers who lived through similar experiences in that era
- Combines personal narrative with broader historical analysis
Things people didn't like as much about this book
- Some readers found it lacking in self-reflection or introspection
- At times comes across as self-righteous or lacking humility
- May be perceived as appropriating others' stories, particularly regarding civil rights
- Can feel more like a history book than a personal memoir in parts
- Focuses heavily on political activism at the expense of other life experiences
- Some readers felt disconnected from the author's personal story
- Lacks significant reflection on feminist movement despite author's later role
- May not fully acknowledge the extent of the author's privilege
- Some found the writing style detached or impersonal
- Ends at college graduation, leaving readers wanting more about her later career
