THE AVIATOR'S WIFE by Melanie Bejamin

The Aviator’s Wife by Melanie Benjamin

5 stars
Charles Lindbergh revealed

This well written fictionalization of Anne Morrow Lindbergh’s life from just before she meets Charles A Lindbergh until his death in 1974 is thought provoking.  Approximately equal time is given to “the events of 1932” (the kidnapping and murder of the Lindbergh’s first born child), the early days of the their marriage and Anne’s development as an aviatrix and navigator, and Anne’s life as mother who is left behind alone as her husband is increasingly absent.  Charles’ possible anti-semitism( and both of their positive opinions of Germany under Hitler’s early days) is briefly touched upon.

The novel is the story of their marriage and Anne’s transformation from naïve and easily compliant young girl to confident, self-reliant woman sure of herself and confident of her ability to write. Charles is portrayed as arrogantly self-confident, selfish and controlling of both his wife and children even while also needing Anne’s unflagging support.

I enjoyed reading this book and would recommend it to others interested in reading/learning more about Anne, her marriage and the early days of “women’s liberation”.  This book will provide much fodder  for discussing marriage, family dynamics, child rearing methods, news gathering and reporting, and America during the Nazi era and during wartimes.