The Importance of being Kennedy - Laurie Graham

[Jane B]

This is a ficitonal look at the Kennedy clan through the eyes of their Irish immigrant nanny Nora Brennan who looked after them from 1917 when Joseph Patrick was a toddler and Jack (always a sickly child) was on the way until the funeral in England in 1948 of Kathleen (Kick) Kennedy after her death in a plane crash. Through Nora's memoirs we are given a behind the scenes look at the the Kennedys - Mr K's many money making ventures and philanderings and Rose Kennedy's heartless mothering, frequent absences and penny pinching and the proud and competitive spirit instilled in all 9 children from birth. The story takes us through Mr K's years as a Hollywood mogul to his years as ambassador to England (reward for backing the presidency of FDR) just before World War 2, all from the point of view of how these years affect the children. It is an enjoyable blending of fact and fiction and a hugely entertaining read.

[Jacqui]

I really enjoyed reading this book too. It made reading about historical events interesting and I was intrigued about how even the nanny's life was affected by decisions made by the family. Also interesting to note how 'faction' books are becoming more and more popular as well.