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Rating: 
Summary: Great Gloss of a Fascinating Facet of American History
Review: Caroli provides an interesting overview of a position most Americans take for granted, about which they may hold very deep-seeded opinions they may not even realize. Her historical treatment provides the backdrop I would guess many people lack in drawing conclusions about contemporary first ladies, and this background is, and always would be, cogent.I remember (with some regret) as a child remarking to my mother during the 1980 elections that Nancy Reagan was prettier than Rosalyn Carter. My mother replied, "Well, Reagan was a movie star! Don't draw your conclusions based on how they LOOK..." Now, 19 years later, I get the facts to back up my mother's admonition. The book is only a gloss, not an in depth treatment, and Caroli states she's not trying to draw wide-ranging conclusions. The strength of the book comes in her setting forward a small written portrait of each woman and her times, giving the reader a good spring board for further study in areas of interest. A favorite account was of Betty Ford's candor and refreshing attitude with the press. Through this book I developed a real interest in her and the work she did during her time in office. Even democratic friends say they remember her time in the White House as good years for the "office" of first lady.
Rating: 
Summary: A Fine Piece of Work
Review: Ms. Caroli is an excellent historian, and an even better writer. She makes the lives of very commonplace women come alive, and it is a most enjoyable read!
Rating:
Summary: A Fine Piece of Work
Review: Ms. Caroli is an excellent historian, and an even better writer. She makes the lives of very commonplace women come alive, and it is a most enjoyable read!
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