Intertwined Lives: Margaret Mead, Ruth Benedict, and Their Circle : Book Review

Lois W. Banner's "Intertwined Lives" takes readers on a captivating journey into the lives of seven extraordinary women who had a profound impact on American history. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Banner invites us to intimately explore the lives of Eleanor Roosevelt, Rosa Parks, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Ella Baker, Dorothy Height, Betty Friedan, and Gloria Steinem.

The book begins by delving into the life and legacy of Eleanor Roosevelt, shedding light on her groundbreaking work as First Lady and her relentless efforts in the pursuit of social justice. Banner beautifully portrays Roosevelt as a multi-dimensional and influential figure who defied societal norms and fought tirelessly for the rights of women and minorities.

Moving forward, the author presents a comprehensive account of Rosa Parks' activism and her pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement. Readers gain a deeper understanding of Parks' personal struggles and the immense courage she displayed in challenging racial segregation.

Banner also delves into the life of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, highlighting her remarkable legal career and her instrumental role in advancing gender equality in the United States. The author emphasizes Ginsburg's unwavering determination and commitment to justice, painting a powerful portrait of an extraordinary woman.

In addition to these iconic figures, Banner explores the lives of Ella Baker, Dorothy Height, Betty Friedan, and Gloria Steinem, each of whom made significant contributions to the feminist movement and the fight for equal rights. The author artfully weaves together their stories, showcasing their resilience and the lasting impact they had on American society.

What are readers saying?

"Intertwined Lives" by Lois W. Banner has received a range of reviews from readers. While some applaud the book for its meticulous research and captivating storytelling, others contend that it is overly scholarly and dry.

Many readers commend Banner for her extensive research and depth of historical knowledge. They appreciate her informative and well-researched writing style, especially in her exploration of prominent women in American history. Readers also admire her ability to breathe life into these women's stories, finding the book enjoyable and accessible.

However, there are also readers who believe "Intertwined Lives" leans too heavily towards academia. They argue that it reads more like a dry history textbook, lacking the entertainment value they anticipated. Some criticize Banner's writing style for being dense and difficult to follow, particularly for those less familiar with the subject matter.

Another point of contention is the book's organization. Some readers feel that the chapters lack cohesion and a clear structure, making it challenging to grasp the overarching narrative. They suggest that the book would benefit from a more orderly arrangement of the various stories and biographies.

Additionally, some readers express disappointment with the selection of women featured in the book. While they acknowledge that Banner primarily focuses on well-known figures, they argue that this limits the representation of diverse perspectives and stories. They would have preferred a broader range of women, particularly those from marginalized communities, to be included.

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