In her acclaimed New York Times bestseller, Motherless Daughters,
Hope Edelman explored the profound and lasting effects of mother loss,
as well as her own search for healing. Now, in her compelling new work,
Edelman explores another complex, life-changing relationship, the
intricate bond between generations.
Drawing from her own experience and the recollections of over seventy
other granddaughters, Edelman explores the three-generation triangle
from which women develop their female identities: the
grandmother-mother-daughter relationship. With eloquent personal
testimony, she demonstrates the vital roles grandmothers have played in
their granddaughters' lives, as a source of unconditional love, family
values and traditions, and backup parent, the ultimate safety net.
Here are grandmothers in all their glory: The Benevolent Manipulator,
whose love for her family is matched only by her desire for control; The
Gentle Giant, awesome, respected, who possesses a quiet,
behind-the-scenes power; The Autocrat, who rules her extended family
like a despot; The Kinkeeper, the family hub, who offers a sense of
cohesion to the extended clan.
With insight and compassion, Edelman probes this unique and
emotionally-charged relationship in a book that is a true celebration of
an extraordinary bond--and a must read for every woman.
