Jessamyn West (1) (1902–1984)

I loved Friendly Persuasion and Except for Me and Thee.

FROM AMAZON: A Companion to The Friendly Persuasion -- These further adventures of Jess and Eliza Birdwell, the beloved hero and heroine of The Friendly Persuasion, are cause for celebration to the millions who have met them in Jessamyn West's memorable book or in its enduring film, of which Miss West was co-author. Now their world comes vibrantly alive once more in Except for Me and Thee. Here are those gallant Quakers, young and in love, meeting the challenges of nature and man as the growing family travels westward, then encountering the bitterness and savagery that explode into the Civil War, later guiding their children through the confusing aftermath, and, finally, looking at their world with bittersweet maturity. For all its fascinating differences, their world confronts dilemmas strikingly contemporary--youthful rebellion, racial intolerance, social inequity, and warfare's misery. To each, Miss West brings deep and meaningful insights. And she brings more in the many moments of spirited comedy and gentle humor that are equally a part of living and so natural to this appealing couple and their family. Here, then, are full measures of joy and sadness, tenderness and brutality, hope and despair--a sweeping spectrum of human experience ranging continuously through this compelling story. Its beauty and wisdom, merged into the swift narrative, bear the hallmark of its distinguished author. Its readers will be delighted, will be moved, and will long remember Except for Me and Thee.… (mer)

You know a book is worth 5 stars if just seeing the title makes you want to read it again, because you have such pleasant memories of it.

FROM AMAZON: A quintessential American heroine, Eliza Birdwell is a wonderful blend of would-be austerity, practicality, and gentle humor when it comes to keeping her faith and caring for her family and community. Her husband, Jess, shares Eliza's love of people and peaceful ways but, unlike Eliza, also displays a fondness for a fast horse and a lively tune. With their children, they must negotiate their way through a world that constantly confronts them-sometimes with candor, sometimes with violence-and tests the strength of their beliefs. Whether it's a gift parcel arriving on their doorstep or Confederate soldiers approaching their land, the Birdwells embrace life with emotion, conviction, and a love for one another that seems to conquer all.… (mer)