From Library Journal
In contrast to those who view divorce and its aftermath negatively, Applewhite (Thinking Positive: Words of Inspiration for People with AIDS, S. & S., 1995) focuses here on the positive effects. Using case histories and well-documented research, she offers a no-nonsense, practical look at women who have come through the process of divorce and feel good about their experiences. The chapters "Law and Lawyers" and "Money and Work" address many legal and financial concerns that offer the reader good direction. Building on her own divorce experience, Applewhite offers comfort, encouragement, and hope to women contemplating the end of their marriages. The book is easy to read and includes an extensive bibliography. Recommended for popular psychology collections in public libraries.?Elizabeth Goeters, DeKalb Coll. Learning Resources Ctr., Dunwoody, Ga.
Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
From Kirkus Reviews
A divorce enthusiastically explains why shedding one's husband can be the smartest, healthiest move an unhappily married woman can make. Applewhite, a freelance editor and writer, presents a composite portrait of today's strong and resourceful divorced woman, compiled through interviews with nearly 50 women of all ages, incomes, and backgrounds who initiated their divorces. As depicted here, marriage is too often an oppressive arrangement for women, one they can well do without. If Applewhite's figures are correct, three-fourths of today's divorces are initiated by women, and if her analysis of the situation is correct, they are better off, at least psychologically, for having taken the big step. Despite the financial hardship experienced by the women, especially those with dependent children, none regretted having gotten a divorce; indeed, some expressed regret at not having done it sooner. An admittedly unscientific sampling of women--Applewhite appealed for interviewees in The Pennysaver, Romance Writers Report, and other publictions--these confident women eagerly share their experiences of coming to the decision, going through the legal process, coping with the financial consequences, regaining their independence, and parenting and step-parenting. While Applewhite declares that this is not a how-to manual, she offers plenty of practical advice on finding a lawyer, protecting oneself and getting one's money's worth, using a mediator, and the basics of custody arrangements and child support. More significant, though, for any woman contemplating a divorce, is the hearty you-too-can-do-it encouragement that permeates the text. An empowering and comforting message for unhappily married women, but one whose validity is open to debate. ($30,000 ad/promo; author tour; radio satellite tour) --
Copyright ©1997, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
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