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Crones Don't Whine: Hardcover: 128 pages Having made a name for herself with her previous books, specifically Goddesses in Everywoman and The Millionth Circle, as well as through her workshops across the country, Dr Bolen again distinguishes herself as a voice for the modern woman in this most recent endeavor. Through her eyes, the reader is gently encouraged to explore the concept of cronehood with uplifting joy and enthusiasm rather than the negativism and dread with which Westernized civilization approaches aging. Encouraging a reclaiming of the denigrated word "crone" by pairing it with the word "Juicy," ("Juicy Crones don't whine!!") Bolen brings together in this volume a series of commentaries about the behavior and understanding inherent in cronedom, creating a marvelous compendium for the last trimester of life. Bolen's whimsical writing style is infinitely readable and the book is a quick read (I finished it in just under an hour). Taking us on a magical trip through the window she opens into the life of a Crone, Bolen deftly interweaves sage advice ("Show up, pay attention, speak your truth and pray for the best outcome") with an appropriate smattering of history to create a masterpiece on aging...juicy. The author is wonderfully bold in her admission that "exceptional men can be crones," giving appropriate homage to those magnificent males in the world who do not bend to the societal demands for caveman behavior and cultivate their "crone" attributes. Bolen also is quick to point out that growing older does not automatically guarantee "crone" any more than it guarantees wisdom. If pre-crones and new crones would read and internalize the valuable lessons put forth in this book, I am certain we can up the aggregate positivism with which aging is addressed and entered into and create a juicier quality of life for crones and those who love them. I never wanted to be twenty years older so much in my life. Five pentacles
out of five Review by Katrina Rasbold |
