Book Review
“MY MOTHER and me” by Thomas Hauser
“MY MOTHER and me” is one of those books that will stay with you long after you have finished reading it.
The book has a narrow focus — the relationship between a son and his mother. But there is nothing narrow or parochial in the approach. Like all talented writers, Thomas Hauser captures the universal by portraying the specific.
A slender book — only 140 pages — the memoir is no less substantial for its brevity. The writing is clear and lucid with gentle flights of poetry that reflect the emotions that motivated the son to write about his mother. She was a remarkable woman — strong, intelligent and fiercely committed to those less fortunate than her.
For all her sterling attributes, however, we would never have gotten to meet Eleanor Nordlinger Hauser — “Ellie,” to her friends — without a son who considered her life worth documenting. He was right, although this book is no hagiography. The author offers a full portrait of his mother, flaws and all, and she emerges all the more admirable for the honest depiction.
The Unbreakable Bond: A Review of "MY MOTHER and Me"
Within the pages of this book lies a profound partnership between narrative and narrator. It required a masterful wordsmith to capture the essence of her character in such a complete and vibrant manner. The fact that this "masterful wordsmith" happens to be her own son adds a layer of poignant beauty to "MY MOTHER and Me."
With each sentence and turn of the page, the prose exudes the quintessential quality of a talented writer. It not only compels you to continue reading, but it also envelops you in its melody and rhythm, seamlessly guiding you through the narrative. The age-old adage holds true for "MY MOTHER and Me" — once you start, you won't want to stop.
Author Robert L. Seltzer, a distinguished recipient of the Nat Fleischer Award for Career Excellence in Boxing Journalism, has penned two other notable works: "Amado Muro and Me" and "Thursday Night at the Mall."
