Rights of Passage: How Women Can Find a New Freedom in Their Midyears

Rather than dwelling on middle-age women's personal problems--the empty nest syndrome, divorce or widowhood, difficulties with family relationships--Lenz ( The Feminization of America ) shows that mature women today have broad opportunities for growth and fulfillment. In her spirited and practical guide, citing interviews with women from various backgrounds and situations, she reevaluates the post-motherhood years, proclaiming ``the right to enjoy freedom without guilt'' within or without the framework of marriage. In addition to providing specific advice on money management and career options, she urges women to confront age-based discrimination (more prevalent in the workplace than sexism, she claims) by affirming their identities and the value of their experiences. ( Sept. )