January 29, 2013

  • Book Entry

    The Shoemaker's Wife by Adriana Trigiani

     

    I have read the Big Stone Gap series by Adriana Trigiani.  I loved her stories and writing, so I figured this one would be a good read, as well.   I was extremely pleased with my decision to pick it up.  I was attracted to the Big Stone Gap series because it takes place in the Smokey Mountains, a place I love.  The Shoemaker's Wife takes place in the Italian Alps, then New York (and New Jersey), then Minnesota.  Those aren't really places I identify with.   It spans the time period of the two World Wars.  I love a good historical fiction.   It is based on actual family members of the author.  You even get rewarded with pictures provided at the end of the book.  

    So, why did I love it?

    This is a novel about The American Dream.   It's the story of four people who immigrate to America from Italy to make their lives better.  They are able to develop their talents and enter into trades that will provide for their families.  Enza is a seamstress.  She ends up making costumes at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York City.  Another reason for me to love this novel.  If only I could end up making costumes at The Met.   I really wish those days still existed.  The days where people actually were sought after for their individual skills.  If you needed shoes you went to a shoemaker.  If you needed a dress you went to a dressmaker.  You were able to learn skills through apprenticeships.  You were able to take pride in your work.  Now it seems we work for a paycheck and not for a life.  

    There's also a love story.   A few of them.  

     

    Leah K.

     

    Now life has killed the dream I dreamed.  - Les Miserables