Title: The Bridges of Madison County
Author: Robert James Waller
First published April 13, 1992
224 pages, Mass Market Paperback
ISBN: 9780446364492 (ISBN10: 0446364495)
Rating: 3.67
Overview
Street Gang: The Complete History of Sesame Street by Michael Davis is a fascinating account of how one of the most beloved shows on television, Sesame Street, came to be. From its rocky beginnings to its remarkable success, this book traces the evolution of the show, highlighting the remarkable personalities who contributed to its success.
With the cooperation of one of the show’s co-founders, Joan Ganz Cooney, Davis takes readers on a journey through the civil rights movement, Nixon’s attempts to cut off funding, and the rise of the beloved character Elmo. This book is an unforgettable story of five decades of social and cultural change and the miraculous creative efforts, passion, and commitment of the writers, producers, directors, animators, and puppeteers who created one of the most influential programs in the history of television.
With its emphasis on teaching children cooperation, fair play, tolerance, and self-respect, Sesame Street has become a cultural landmark that has touched the lives of millions of children worldwide.
About the Author
Meet Robert James Waller, an American author who was also a talented photographer and musician. His books have captivated readers, earning him a spot on the prestigious New York Times bestseller list.
In fact, his novel The Bridges of Madison County was the top best-seller in 1993. This book, along with his 1995 novel Puerto Vallarta Squeeze, were so beloved that they were turned into motion pictures.
Editoral Review
Robert James Wallers novel The Bridges of Madison County, first published in 1992, is a heart-wrenching romantic novel that explores the themes of love, commitment, and sacrifice. Waller, who is also a photographer and musician, is known for his mastery in creating a compelling narrative with vivid descriptions and emotions that resonate with the readers.
The novel is set in the mid-1960s in Madison County, Iowa, and revolves around the lives of two main characters, Robert Kincaid, a National Geographic photographer, and Francesca Johnson, an Italian housewife. The story begins when Robert Kincaid, on his way to a photo shoot for National Geographic, stops at Francesca Johnsons house to ask for directions.
What follows is a four-day love affair that leaves both characters in a dilemma between their personal values and their love for each other. Wallers writing style is remarkable in its simplicity and evocative descriptions that breathe life into Madison County’s rural surroundings.
The authors use of first-person point-of-view from Francescas perspective allows readers to enter the characters mind and feel the intensity of her emotions. Waller also masterfully uses symbolism to convey the idea of broken dreams and missed opportunities.
While the plot is relatively predictable, Waller creates a meaningful story that explores the complexities of love, loss, and morality. The characters’ moral dilemma adds depth to the story, and readers are left wondering what they would have done in the same situation.
The novel also has historical significance as it was written during the time of the feminist movement and challenged conventional gender roles. Francesca, a woman who had abandoned her dreams for her family, realizes that she has been living a lie and that she has to make a choice between the love of her life and her family.
However, the novel is not without its flaws. Waller’s reliance on melodramatic storytelling may put off some readers, and some may argue that the characters are too one-dimensional.
Nonetheless, for most, these are minor criticisms as the novel carries an emotional weight that is rare in contemporary literature. In conclusion, The Bridges of Madison County is a beautifully crafted novel that invites readers to examine the meaning of love and the sacrifices necessary for it to flourish.
Wallers writing is evocative, and the novel may leave readers in tears once the final page is turned. It has been more than two decades since its publication, but the novel still holds significance in contemporary literature.
I highly recommend this novel to anyone interested in a classic, romantic story that balances dramatic tension with lyrical writing. On a scale of 1-10, I would give it an 8.5.