The Awakening

The Awakening by Kate Chopin is set partly in Grande Island off the coast of New Orleans, LA. Where the main character, Edna  Pontellier (a married woman), begins a metamorphosis of sorts during her summer vacation when she meets Robert LeBrun, a younger single man who stirs a new energy in her through dialogue and attention she seemingly never received from her successful businessman husband.  It is always interesting to see how the “well t'do” 1900s families always have time for spending money and finding ways to get themselves in trouble.  I’m sure in its day this book was ripped off the shelves, a married woman having trysts with young bachelors.  But compared to today’s standards, pretty low bar story.  The ho-hum dinner parties and morning breakfasts with a second would-be “gentleman caller” makes Mrs. (should I even call her that?) Pontellier a wayward woman!  The transformation of Edna is compelling as her artistic side begins to develop as her new found sensuality is heightened.  The swimming motif climaxes in what we believe is her death, though one never knows…  well written, but for me there are other “coming of age,” “not putting up with a man who pays no attention to me” story that get a bigger thumbs up.  Quick read, and yes first Kindle read book!  If you ever thought about getting one, you should.  Love seeing how far to go in the book.  Back burner book, no need to jump it up on your list.