Years of Grace

Summary

Lovers of classical fiction will enjoy viewing life through the lens of Jane Ward as she grapples with the meaning of love in this 1931 Pulitzer Prize winning novel.

Generational pressures are on full display over the course of four decades, as we see her struggle with her upbringing by Victorian parents, yet strain to understand her own children’s life choices, as the Roaring 20’s boasts dramatic changes in societal norms.

Jane consistently reflects on her life choices; justifying and arguing the options she had with thoughtful explanations of her final decisions. Her perspective is frequently layered with the acknowledgement of financial privilege and frustrations with the status quo, followed by her reasoning for pushing boundaries or staying within them. As observers, we are left to reflect on our own feelings along with her: What makes a life? Are we happy with our choices? If we chose a different life path, would it really have been better?

Underlying Jane’s maturation, is a fondness for Bryn Mawr College and the rapid growth of her birth city, Chicago, IL. References to both are sprinkled throughout the novel. Chicago enthusiasts will delight in the historical references viewed through the perspective of someone experiencing the changes in real time, many of which landmarks (and reputations) still exist today.