I just finished up the book When the Men were Gone by Marjorie Herrera Lewis. I picked this one…I’ll admit, from the cover. It looked historical. I flipped that back and something said, “woman football coach, WWII” that was enough for me. I picked it.
So did I like it….YES! I’m a little bit sad and a little bit excited that this is the author’s debut book. I’m sad there aren’t more books I can go back and read…HAPPY because this book is good and I can look forward to more books by her. The writing is good. The story is good. I love the way the story is told in present day with good flashbacks.
It really was one of the better books I’ve listened to of late. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys “home front” stories of WWII…also to anyone who enjoys sports or books with a strong female lead.
Here’s what Amazon had to say:
“In Marjorie Herrera Lewis’s debut historical novel the inspiring true story of high school teacher Tylene Wilson—a woman who surprises everyone as she breaks with tradition to become the first high school football coach in Texas—comes to life.Â
Football is the heartbeat of Brownwood, Texas. Every Friday night for as long as assistant principal Tylene Wilson can remember, the entire town has gathered in the stands, cheering their boys on. Each September brings with it the hope of a good season and a sense of unity and optimism.
Now, the war has changed everything. Most of the Brownwood men over 18 and under 45 are off fighting, and in a small town the possibilities are limited. Could this mean a season without football? But no one counted on Tylene, who learned the game at her daddy’s knee. She knows more about it than most men, so she does the unthinkable, convincing the school to let her take on the job of coach.
Faced with extreme opposition—by the press, the community, rival coaches, and referees and even the players themselves—Tylene remains resolute. And when her boys rally around her, she leads the team—and the town—to a Friday night and a subsequent season they will never forget.          Â
Based on a true story, When the Men Were Gone is a powerful and vibrant novel of perseverance and personal courage.”
Amazon readers gave the book 4.8 stars. I am going to veto that and give the book 5 stars. I VERY much liked it and HIGHLY recommend it. If you’re looking for a book- Look no further. This is a good book.
I aam definitely going to check out your recommendation, Jo. My stepson is a Texas high school football coach. I enjoy books based on true stories. Thanks again!
I looked item #2 up on line, because I agreed with the people who said it was a barometer. Tried to get the pictures to copy, but didn’t have any luck but here is the information on them.
HAND BLOWN WEATHER GLASS BAROMETER
IN STOCK
$16.95
Buy 10 for $15.26 each and save 10%
Buy 25 for $14.41 each and save 15%
Buy 50 for $13.56 each and save 20%
Buy 100 for $11.87 each and save 30%
Buy 250 for $10.17 each and save 40%
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Dimensions & Weight:
Barometer Alone –
9 1/2 inches (24.1 cm) tall, 4 inches (10.2 cm) wide, and 3 3/4 inches (9.5 cm) deep
4 ounces (114 grams)
Product Features:
Named for Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe, who developed a simple but effective Weather Glass Barometer
Accurately forecasts changes in the weather hours in advance
Full Description:
The concept that decreasing atmospheric pressure predicts stormy weather was postulated by Lucien Vidie and provides the basis for this glass barometer, which is sometimes referred to as a “storm glass” or a “Goethe barometer” (named for Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe, who developed a simple but effective Weather Glass Barometer). Glass barometers are a fascinating instrument, and a great conversation piece. This traditional barometer is both a work of art, and the perfect instrument for any fine study, library, office or boat.
I was looking for a listing of books you have reviewed and did not see one. I just finished the Alice Network and it was very good. Not sure if I just stumbled on it or if you had recommended it. I have read several of your suggested books and have enjoyed all of them I tried. The Alice Network was about women spies. It was a little bit different in that one chapter takes place in WWI then the next chapter picks up in WWII time. Then back again. I always had to stop and shift for a second, but other than that, it was a very good book. If you suggested it previously, thanks. If not, you might enjoy. I will be checking out this one you just suggested. Thanks!