Jeanne Darst

I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads and I'm very sorry it took me far too long to read it. My taking so long to read this book was in no way a reflection on the quality of the book or the author's writing. It's simply a reflection of my busy schedule and the mounds, and mounds of books I have yet to read.

That being said, I really liked this book. Jeanne is hilarious and I really enjoyed reading about her life. Her writing style is fantastic. For the first time, I read a memoir and actually came out feeling like I knew the person. I would, and have already, suggest that people read this book; especially if one has a good sense of humor.… (mehr)

Jeannies story of growing up in a 'writer's family' is quite entertaining. She and her 3 sisters are constantly being judged by what they are reading- by their father, who spends his life writing the 'great American novel'-- which is always on the verge of completion! Basically her father is so preoccupied with the book he can't hold down a job. Her mother is a neurotic alcoholic and is absent from any mothering. Jeanne writes about having crabs- which I thought "okay, this is not necessary" but she had me roaring! She writes about her alcoholism as a race with her mom and explains her drinking very sardonically. Very funny- a laugh out loud, while at the same time, very sad.… (mehr)