Callings - Dave Isay

Sub-title: The purpose and passion of work

I picked this up in the bargain bin at Office Max.  The Story corps company, founded by the author, has established recording booths around the country for ordinary people to share stories of their lives.

This collection focuses on those stories related to work.  There are sections on Dreamers, Heroes, Philosophers and others.

I thoroughly enjoyed learning of every day jobs and the strong emotions shared by those who loved those jobs.  It was inspiring and enlightening.  From garbage truck drivers to dentists to bar owners the friendship and pride was evident.  Good little read.

Published:  2016  Read: March 2019  Genre: Business

The Radium Girls - Kate Moore

Sub-title:  The dark story of America's shining women

I read this for my Ladies of the Club book group..over 25 years we've been meeting!

The true story of the young teenagers and women who painted luminous dials with paint brushes they "pointed" by "lipping" - wetting them with their mouths.  The were poisoned by the radium powder used and suffered horrendous illness and disfigurations and death while their employer denied any ill effects.  Their case led to worker's rights legislation.  A powerful read.

Published: 2017  Read: November 2018  Genre: History

Bitter is the New Black - Jen Lancaster

Sub-title:  Confessions of a Condescending, Egomaniacal, Self-Centered Smartass, Or, Why You Should Never Carry A Prada Bag to the Unemployment Office

Sarcastic, witty, funny, poignant 20 something reels from being laid off in the dot.com bust and gets her priorities straight - maybe.  Enjoyable read.

Published: 2006  Read: September 2016  Genre: Memoir

Act One - Moss Hart

I picked this up at the half price book store for my October trip but finished it before I left!

Moss Hart was a famous playwright and theatre director in the 30's and 40's, dying in the late 50's, married to Kitty Carlisle of the "What's My Line" game show. His auto-biography is considered a classic in the description of life in the theatre. It's an intimate portrayal of his difficult early poverty with alcoholic and disturbed parents and his escape from that life to the magic of Broadway.  I enjoyed the insight into play writing and the collaborative method he used to create many of his plays.

He does come off as rather pompous and overwrought, working himself into a tizzy with worry and doubt.  He was a tremendously hard worker and relentless in writing for his audience.  In any case, the story vividly reveals the behind the curtain activities of the theater and the people who create it. If you know anyone who wants a life in theatre, this is a good gift.

Published: 2014 (2nd edition, originally 1959  Read: October 2015  Genre: auto-biography

• ISBN-13: 978-1250050892