Doc-Edwards
Just An Old-Fashioned Great Read
Posted December 7, 2009, 3:12 AM EST: Sometimes a book comes along that seriously reaffirms everything that can be good about life, while at the same time, itemizing and listing and cross-checking everything bad that might happen. Like a wonderful main-course at dinner with a mild sweet 'nd sour glaze that's neither too little or too much, Ms. Morgan's book serves up to us that most difficult of all things for the writer to achieve: just the right balance of pathos, humor, hope, and struggle that somehow, by a magic spell obviously woven deftly into the fabric of the story itself, leaves us feeling better about what heretofore (that is, before reading this marvelous book)was the worst situation that we could imagine: our own life.
PatJM
fascinating
Posted December 11, 2009, 11:23 AM EST: I read somewhere that this author had called her life a 'soap opera.' In spite of documenting a rather unusual life in this well-written book, Ms. Morgan becomes "Everyman' (or woman) in the sense that we all deal with tremendous changes and challenges. And in spite of the fact that her particular experiences are somewhat unique, there is common ground that we can all relate to in her observations. Truth certainly is stranger, or at least more interesting, than fiction in this case. When we first find out that the author had been a performer - a musician and actress - we might expect to be treated to a 'tell-all' book of steamy show-biz secrets. Instead, there is much more substance, emotion and a broader scope. Her reality becomes ours. Unflinchingly honest, at times, I felt like I was reading someones diary, privy to their innermost thoughts and confidences - a fully engaging experience! The astute reader will explore their own lives and sensibilities, with Ms. Morgan's life as a background, making comparisons long after one finishes the book. This is not a scholarly, nor a sophisticated work, yet it offers up lessons to be learned.
Anonymous
Simply outstanding!
Posted December 8, 2009, 6:59 PM EST: When I read this book I felt my life challenges were nothing compared to hers. She had the courage to carry on no matter what and not give up. Very inspirational! Made you laugh, made you cry and made a very good example of how you can pick yourself up, dust yourself off and keep going with faith to help you along the way. It was a very touching and enlightening book. I would recommend "Roselady" to anyone that is having a troubled time in their life.
Anonymous
NEW AUTHOR ARRIVES!
Posted December 8, 2009, 1:51 AM EST: A memoir often ends up being sanctimonious, maudlin or overcome with personal sentiment - not this one! I had trouble putting this one down. While the writing is highly personal, Ms. Morgan looks back on the experiences in her life with the perspective of one who is a bit surprised that she lived through it all. Her memories of a childhood spent in Wisconsin are sharp and funny. Her insights into brain injury as well as mental illness, both of which have touched my own family, have shed light on our ignorance as a society. She writes that "Others have experienced far more hardship and drama in their lives...." and that she is in awe of their spirit and courage, but it is her own spirit that gives voice to a gritty determination and hope. (The aptly named subtitle of this book is 'A Story of Hope, Change and Perseverance.') Her writing style makes you feel you are right there with her and just as you think you may get bogged down in detail, yet another situation pops up that presents one more challenge. The characters are well-developed, the writing is honest, the subject(s) are interesting. I'm looking forward to her next book.
SL54
Wow! Amazing!
Posted December 7, 2009, 12:59 AM EST: This book is a great read. Although it is not for the faint of heart. Roselady's real life experiences will move you. The struggles this woman has not only endured but risen above are incredible. It will open your eyes, encourage you, and make you want to reach out and help another person succeed. After reading this book you will know that you too can succeed set backs when you didn't think anything other than failure was possible.
