Chains Around the Grass

by Naomi Ragen

Paperback, 2003

Rating

½ (9 ratings; 3.9)

Genres

Historical Fiction

General Fiction

Fiction

Publication

Toby Pr (2003), Edition: Large type / large print edition, 256 pages

Description

Set in the 1950's in New York City, this is a portrait of a Jewish-American family that glows with affection, tenderness, and courage when tragedy changes the lives of all who are left behind.

User reviews

LibraryThing member drinkingtea

Other than the missing 45 years, this was a good read. You get to know characters that you did not expect to get to know when you first opened the book.

1 more

LibraryThing member Bookish59

I understood many feelings expressed throughout the book; it was as though I was with Ruth and family. The descriptions of their life after husband and father dies; poor, proud, afraid, and beholden to others, is realistic and sorrowful. While I was fortunate to grow up with both parents, in a

lower middle-class lifestyle, we never had plenty of money so had to manage with less.

I also knew a few classmates whose fathers died pre-maturely, and their family situations deteriorated quickly. (Keep in mind that In the 60's, men were the main breadwinners.)

And there were always a few relatives and acquaintances with more resources, who knew only too well how to humiliate and hurt rather than help.

This story has riches to offer its readers.

I remember experiencing strong feelings while reading this novel, and later upon thinking of it, so I definitely recommend it.

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