You'll learn a great deal from this book, some of it quite disturbing. Far from the "land of opportunity" most American's like to think of our country as, it's often been downright unwelcoming. In fact, we seem to be going through a phase of deja vu again right now. Sigh. Yet, amongst the turmoil, one can find moments of hope. Moments of inspriation. Frances Perkins' life is an example of that. While I did know of her, about how she served as the first female cabinet member (Labor, under FDR), I had little real knowledge of the true challenge she faced.

Although I initially took copious notes, I eventually abandoned that tactic in favor of simply reading or, in my case since I had the audio book, listening. Maybe it was a subconscious effort to push forward faster in hopes of reaching a "happily ever after" ending. No such luck. The same issues that faced Perkins face us today, magnified by social media. Let's face it, racism and immigration are hot topic, problematic issues even today. Knowing this, that makes Perkins' accomplishments all the more impressive. While she certainly didn't solve all the problems of her day, just like no one person will do so today, she did what she could, often against strong opposition. In other words, she made a difference. Looking back, so many of the things we Americans take for granted today were born from Perkins' ideas and, with the backing of FDR, many were enacted into laws that still guide us today. As an Alaskan, one of the ideas that was floated about, btw, not necessarily by Perkins, was to use the then territory of Alaska as a sort of refugee location. Obviously that one didn't go anywhere.

I'd be doing you a disservice to even attempt to summarize all the history and issues/actions discussed. This one deserves a read. In fact, I'm thinking it should be required reading/listening for anyone who has any interest in not just history but current affairs. While much of the history was saddening, there is much of hope to be found here, too. Perkins pushed against limits, just as modern progressives are and she made a difference. All while dealing with an institutionalized husband suffering from Bi-Polar disease, I might add.

Bottom line, not an easy read by any means although I think the better wording might better be "not a comfortable read". There's a huge amount of information to take in, not all involving immigration and refugees, and the author's obvious deep dive of research shows. While focused around letters citizens sent Perkins, it's far more broad reaching and comprehensive. It's easy to mumble about nostalgia for the good ol' days but, well, those good ol' days for some were anything but for others. This book, telling of how one rather private, steely determined woman made a difference should serve as an inspiration and reminder to us that, yes, one person can make a difference. We may not change the world like Perkins but we can make a difference to many. Thanks #TantorAudio for allowing me this early read/listen. While I was deeply uncomfortable reading portions of it, hope shines through. Frances Perkins persevered and did make a difference. Maybe that's why the character of Baby in "Dirty Dancing" was named after her?