Customer Reviews

Nadine and Vinson: A time to weep and a time to laugh

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I found the book Nadine and Vincent a humorous reflection on everyday life within a suburban family in the U.S. Ms. Call does an exellent job of looking at her parents from outside of the family itself and is able to focus on the true personalities of her mother and father rather than viewing them from a child's point of view. She has managed to relate the laughable shortcomings of each character as well as to show respect. I would recommend this book for those who are interested in the lives of everyday families and for those who relish reliving past experiences in the hope of keeping their families alive long after they have gone.

Nadine and Vinson has everything a good read requires. The emotions provoked in "Nadine and Vinson", often take the reader by surprise. One minute I was laughing out loud. The next I was afraid someone across the room might catch me with a tear in my eye. Nadine is a hysterical character. She is humorous and sly, often leaving the reader on the edge of his or her seat(wondering if she will get caught by her husband, Vinson). Suddenly, hit with the sad facts of Nadine's childhood, crying is almost inevitable. But never fear, you will be laughing with Nadine again in no time.

PARENTAL ODDNESS IS SUBJECT OF FUNNY ESSAYS - Charleston Gazette-Mail.

Nadine was orphaned and taken in by a mountain farm widow to raise. She did not marry Vincent Erwin, a chemical plant worker, until she was 30. The Great Depression was ending, but Nadine took in dire times, peddling cheap Christmas trees door to door. She often sold or traded her household furniture, and Vincent complained, "That woman has sold my bed." The Erwin family experienced many funny twists and odd episodes including watering the lawn at two o'clock in the morning. "Cures insomnia," Nadine claimed. An enjoyable story about a unique couple.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It made me weep and it made me laugh. Ms. Call has captured her parents' lives in print for all to share and enjoy.