The Mighty Queens of Freeville by Amy Dickinson
Published in 2009, 224 pages.

Amy Dickinson, the Chicago Tribune’s choice to succeed Ann Landers, has written a delightful memoir that chronicles her growing-up in a second generation family of divorce with her strong mother and extended family in the tiny town of Freeville, New York, population 458. Dickinson’s attention to detail brings the reader into her close family circle. We feel as if we are sitting around a kitchen table, chatting about each others’ lives.

What I like about the author is her wonderful capacity to look at her life objectively and to avoid feeling sorry for herself. Her forgiveness of others’ mistakes, as well as her own, is remarkable. She tells her life story without frills, without complaint. It is what it is; she made the best of her situation.

Every single parent who has struggled with the around-the-clock care for a child  and with the chronic shortage of cash can identify with Amy as she strives to raise her daughter Emily as a strong, independent woman. The incredible closeness between Amy and Emily is heartwarming; they are each other’s strongest advocates as they struggle to find their way in the world.

The reader roots for Amy and engages with her story from the first page to the last. I highly recommend The Mighty Queens of
Freeville.

Reviewed by Susie Nightingale 

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