Unfolding: Slow Down, Drop In, Dare More

In this meditative memoir, psychotherapist Hill reflects on women's rediscovery and redefinition of self in midlife and beyond. Illustrative vignettes, metaphorical imagery, and pertinent quotations support her call for women to "slow down, drop in, dare more." To achieve a satisfying sense of self, Hill writes, a woman must find her own voice, though the author herself frequently relies on the voices of others. A cascade of quotations from such authors as Mary Oliver, Anna Quindlen, Carol Gilligan, Anne Lamott, and dozens more betrays Hill's hesitance to rely solely on personal observations. Most compelling when she combines humor and hindsight, as when we find her reading The Feminine Mystique while wearing a mini-dress and knee-high boots, Hill sometimes strays into more clich%C3%A9d territory with artfully written but unoriginal musings on the life cycle of her flower gardens. Hill's writing is rich with imagery, such as her fascination with mermaids, which make frequent, charming appearances in words and occasional drawings. This brief memoir is a quick, light read, well-suited to women curious about how other women navigate their later years. (Apr.)