Rosie [Paperback]

Anne Lamott (Author)

Book Description

Release date: June 1, 1997

In Anne Lamott’s wise and witty novel, the growing pains of motherhood are portrayed with rare humor and honesty. If Elizabeth Ferguson had her way, she’d spend her days savoring good books, cooking great meals, and waiting for the love of her life to walk in the door. But it’s not a man she’s waiting for, it’s her daughter, Rosie—her wild-haired, smart-mouthed, and wise-beyond-her-years alter ego. With Rosie around, the days aren’t quite so long, but Elizabeth can’t keep the realities of the world at bay, and try as she might, she can’t shield Rosie from its dangers or mysteries. As Rosie grows older and more curious, Elizabeth must find a way to nurture her extraordinary daughter—even if it means growing up herself.

Editorial Reviews

Review

Rosie is a masterpiece, Anne Lamott is a novelist of genius. (Los Angeles Times) A fine novel. (The New Yorker) A strong, funny, and memorably original novel. (Alice Adams) Anne Lamott is an original; a bright, resh voice. (San Francisco Chronicle)"

About the Author

Anne Lamott is the author of the New York Times bestsellers Grace (Eventually), Plan B, Traveling Mercies and Operating Instructions, as well as seven novels, including Rosie and Crooked Little Heart. A past recipient of a Guggenheim Fellowship, she lives in Northern California.

Product Details

• Paperback: 275 pages
• Publisher: Penguin Books (June 1, 1997)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0140264795
• ISBN-13: 978-0140264791
• Product Dimensions: 7.8 x 5.1 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 6.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (41 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #531,019 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Anne Lamott is the author of the New York Times bestsellers Grace (Eventually), Plan B, Traveling Mercies, and Operating Instructions, as well as seven novels, including Rosie and Crooked Little Heart. She is a past recipient of a Guggenheim Fellowship.

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

51 of 58 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars ROSIE was riveting August 27, 1999

By A Customer

Format:Paperback

feh to the armchair psychiatrists...ROSIE was just as absorbing and real as any of Lamott's work. It seems as though people bring a bulging satchel of unrelated subtext to these reviews...so I will stick to the book at hand. Lamott's characters as always are people you feel live next door, and that you would not run if you saw coming. Rae for example is almost exactly like my late stepmother; I would give anything to meet her and let her sly humor into my life....which is what I did when I read ROSIE. I guess I've read it two or there times, and each time I revel in its treasures.....the unlikely and gritty love story, the alcoholic dilemmas which Lamott faces square on, not sparing us the ghastly details. it made me want to drink less and like myself more, ROSIE. some books are equally well written but make one want to cataopult oneself from a tall building. Lamott's work is life-affirming, funny, and tangibly human. Thank you, Annie. The only thing sloppy about this book is the praise I feel: for that I do apologize. You deserve a more dignified fan, instead I jump up and down, waving chocolate.

22 of 23 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Another great one from Anne Lamott! August 10, 2003

By CoffeeGurl HALL OF FAME

Format:Paperback

I can hardly believe what some of the reviewers have said of this wonderful book. Where is my elephant gun? Pay absolutely no attention to anyone who claims this isn't up to Lamott's par. Rosie is not just a brilliant read, it is a superlative re-read. She's created another riveting tale of family woes and the love that keeps them in order. However, this novel has a unique coming-of-age brand of its own. The telling of a mother's struggles with alcoholism is poignant and enthralling. I am so relieved I can now lend out my dog-eared second-hand copy and purchase a new one for my shelves. Fans of Lamott rejoice! Now all we need is a new effort from this brilliant author.

20 of 21 people found the following review helpful

3.0 out of 5 stars Worth reading December 28, 2003

By "acoword"

Format:Paperback

Lamott's book "Bird by Bird" on writing was really superb and unforgettable. So, I wanted to absolutely love "Rosie." The characters are indelibly etched in my mind, especially Rae, James, and Rosie. And, parts of the book, mostly the parts about Rosie's character make the the entire book worthwhile. But, I had to force myself to pick it back up after putting it down a few times, and that's not a good sign. It lacked plot. There was nothing that I was really dying to find out. And, the main character's self-obsessed complaining got a little old; she had everything, and just couldn't seem to get it together. I kept hoping she'd just grow up and get over herself. I think the book is worth reading, but don't expect brilliance. Expect a good book that is slow in parts, but that in the end, you'll probably be glad you read.