Frida: a biography by Hayden Herrera

 

One of my lifelong favorite books!!! Frida Kahlo stands as my favorite person, man or woman. Such a vibrant, sensual life. It astounds me that she lived with such fire and determination in spite of the perils she suffered.

I read this biography for the first time when I was 10 at my cousin Charisse's house. Her former husband had scholarly pursuits and kept the 1983 hardcover edition in their home. Every time I went to their house, I would carve time to read this book. I couldn't believe that she stayed with Diego Rivera after he slept with her sister. (I still don't understand how she could have reconciled with him as his wife.) I've bought multiple copies of this book. (One of my uncles kept it after I left my copy at his house.) I adore that she maintained an active sex life. I think it's awesome that a woman of the first half of the 20th century defied gender norms!!!

My love and affection for Frida endures!!!

rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Paid For: My Journey Through Prostitution by Rachel Moran

 

I am grateful that Rachel Moran found her way out of prostitution. The only way to prevent people from entering prostitution is education. The only way to get people out of prostitution is education. Even though most people just want a well-paying career, an individual will have to be trained for the new profession. This marks the first book I've read from a formerly prostituted woman who analyzes and details the damage inflicted from prostitution.

I am all the wiser for it.

Thank you, Ms. Moran.

rating: 5 out of 5 stars