The third in journalist Krasnow's series, following Surrendering to Marriage
and Surrendering to Motherhood, examines the need for women to have their own identity, apart from their roles as wife and mother. Using her own experiences as well as those of women she interviewed for the book, Krasnow believes that women will be happier and more fulfilled when they are in touch with their own identity. Krasnow readily admits that she loves being a parent and dreads the day her children become independent and no longer rely on her on a daily basis, but she also believes that "we can't allow our power to be gotten from the adoration of someone else—real power stems from the beams in our soul, a soul we own and no one else gets to claim." Krasnow examines several important issues for women—work vs. family responsibilities; relationships with elderly parents; time to oneself; etc. Her writing is appealing; the transitions between the anecdotes from other people and her own experiences are seamless. It is hard to dispute her thesis—that women need to pursue work or hobbies or something that is their own—but Krasnow is sometimes so optimistic that readers may be put off. As a freelance journalist and part-time writing instructor, Krasnow was able to move out of the city and raise her kids in a small community. Not all readers will have these options. Still, her message is likely to hit home with many overstressed and overworked women. (Apr.)
Forecast:Krasnow's reputation alone will sell the book—but it will be enhanced by a 20-city satellite tour and six-city author tour.
