Book Review #5 - Three Good Things

3 Good Things by Wendy Francis. Bought this book during the BBW sale. Only RM8. I expected this book to be good but it was a boring read. First half of the story was less interesting as the author spins thru 3 important characters in this book - Ellen,  Lanie and Rob.  In 40s, Ellen runs a pastry shop specialising in selling Kringle (I learnt something new). Definition of "Kringle" says this. It's basically called pretzels.

Lanie, younger sister of Ellen,  married with a young son and Rob Lanie's husband. As the author explains the feelings of 3 different characters of the story, we can basically relate to our lives as well. Relationship among sisters, life after marriage and bonds between mother and daughters. It was an easy read. No mind boggling suspense and thrills. Although towards the end there was a twist when Ellen was unexpectedly got herself pregnant. Then, came the urge to know the ending of the story as what decision would Ellen undertake. That kept me turning the pages till its completion. Each of new chapter comes with a quote which I thought was quite interesting. There are 2 particular quotes which I liked.

"The mother's day is not an eight-hour day. It is twenty-four-hour day. She is never free. No wonder she is tired and impatient sometimes - Talk to Mothers (1920)

"Be glad that your children have enterprise and invention...Do not say, 'You must keep still.  I can't hear so much noise. Can't you ever be quiet?' Rejoice that your children are alive and well - Talk to Mothers (1920)

The last quote is so powerful which every parent should remind themselves over and over. It is the hardest time in parenting when you cannot control your emotions when you are mentally and physically tired while on the other hand your children are demanding for your attention. Nevertheless, we should make an attempt or try not to be carried away by emotions. Parenting is one tough job.

Feeling little curious, I googled about the author of the above quotes and found out that it is actually a book by Lucy Wheelock (1922). Amazingly such an old book. Almost 100 years! I must explore more on this when time permits!

~ End of review