Book Review: American Housewife

American Housewife by Anita Abriel
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I’d classify this story as Fantasy. It gives us an idealized version of a rose-colored view of the past, effectively creating a double layer of the ideal mid-century American good life. I have no problem with that and you shouldn’t either, as long as you go into the story with adequate expectations.

Maggie has become the host of a popular baking show on the new medium of television. As such, the public has certain expectations of her. Much of the story deals with her struggle to match her personal life to her public image. Her best friend is also struggling with image and the energy needed to keep up with a showbiz career, so of course turned to “harmless” pills, as many women actually did back in the day.

Most of the common cliches of the time are folded into the story, along with many more that are particular to New York City, the setting. There’s an interesting mystery involving her husband and a wartime experience that’s still affecting him. Eleanor Roosevelt makes an appearance, fulfilling the role that normally would be played by a caped superhero.

By the end of the book, most of the loose ends have been tied up neatly with a bow, and all questions raised have been answered. If only real life could be as orderly as in storyland.

I know I sound a little snarky, and yes, I do have issues with the simplistic nature of problems and solutions, but honestly, I enjoyed the book and eagerly picked it up each evening at the end of my messy, problem-filled, non-ideal days. No one is going to swoop in and tidy up my loose ends, but I can enjoy that vicarious experience through a fictional character.