I wonder what others think of the author’s decision to write in first person – using Frances Perkins more formal, public voice to describe the events of her life to us?
While I understand the decision to use that first person voice, in the more formal public style of the day, especially as a way to remain true to what we know of Frances Perkins, I sometimes wished there was a way to access a more intimate voice. This would of course require imagination and making assumptions, and perhaps steps outside the bounds of “biographical fiction.” (I’ve never read a biography as novel before – I enjoyed it, and hope that it will make Frances’s story more accessible to all those who don’t care to read non-fiction).
I think the choice of first person was a good one. The story is told as a “share” - as if we were sitting with Frances and she was telling us about her life. I do think this makes it more informal, and that might not be everyone’s preference. Her story is an important one on many levels and the first person informality does diminish the seriousness of the issues.
The first person voice was appropriate for this novel which is highly fictional. It allowed the author to tell Frances’ story as a personal and intimate story rather than a more factual fiction story. It made Frances a more likable person who had a very difficult job and a new role in history, the Secretary of Labor.
I enjoyed the book very much and I think part of the reason was that it was written in first person. I felt I was really getting to know Frances Perkins herself, not just facts about her personal and professional life. On the other hand, when I read first person historical fiction, based on a known character, I find myself wondering how much is real and how much is interpretation. I believe different people, especially at different times, can interpret things differently. So, while I still have conflicting thoughts, I do appreciate that first person made this book a terrific read!
I think the first person Voice was very well used. It did feel as if Frances was describing her life directly tome.
I enjoyed the story of her life (personal and professional) in the first person, in
general terms we were told of her personal relationships with others. Of course, the conversations could not have been known…but they did seem to be consistent with the relationships as described.