Last summer, my Book Club got together for lunch and a discussion of, The Matriarch: Barbara Bush and the Making of an American Dynasty by Susan Page.
TABLE DETAILS
The first thing we noticed about our hostess’ table was it was decorated with the trademark that First Lady Barbara Bush was known for – Faux Pearls
Even the napkin rings were made of pearls
Photos of a young and not-so-young Barbara Bush
BOOK REVIEW
“If human beings are perceived as potentials rather than problems, as possessing strengths instead of weaknesses, as unlimited rather that dull and unresponsive, then they thrive and grow to their capabilities.”
– Barbara Bush
We all loved this book!! We also had a very animated discussion about the book.
The book is based on interviews with Barbara Bush’s family and friends, hours of conversation with the Former First Lady during her last six months of her life, and access to her diaries that spanned her lifetime.
The Matriarch provides a good understanding into details of Barbara Bush’s struggles throughout her life {including suffering the death of her 3- year old daughter, Robin, from leukemia} and bouts with depression, her fierce dedication to her family (family’s nickname for her “The Enforcer”), and her many accomplishments in life. Her wit, resilience, and common sense.
It gave us a great insight to some of her relationships with:
Her mother – who was highly critical of Barbara Pierce Bush’s weight as a young girl
Her husband, President George Bush – a love and a marriage that lasted a lifetime, and
Former First Lady Nancy Reagan – eye-opening details of Mrs. Reagan’s treatment of Mrs. Bush
Highly recommended book for book clubs! Don’t forget to wear your pearls.
