The Accidental Suffragist: A Novel by Galia Gichon

(Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!)

about book: (summary from Goodreads)

It's 1912, and protagonist Helen Fox is a factory worker living in New York's tenements. When tragedy strikes in the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire, Helen is seduced by the Suffragist cause and is soon immersed, working alongside famous activists.

As Helen's involvement with the cause deepens, she encounters myriad sources of tension that test her perseverance: estrangement from her husband, who is blindsided by his wife's sudden activism; ostracization by neighbors; unease at working side by side with wealthier suffragettes; and worry about her children as she leaves them to picket the White House in Washington.

The narrative spans World War One and concludes with the triumph of 1919. In a time when the obstacles for women, from any background, were insurmountable, Helen discovers her voice as an independent woman and dreams of equality in a male-dominated society.

my thoughts:

Wow! What a book! The Accidental Suffragist by Galia Gichon is a terrific read. I absolutely LOVED it to bits. This is one book you won't want to miss out on - it's important, it's informative, and it's inspiring. It's historical fiction at its very best. 

It is the early 1900s and Helen Fox works at a local factory.  A horrible fire erupts and her daughter, who also works at the factory, dies as a result. Deep in grief, Helen finds a new job with the suffragist activists - their mission is to get women the vote.  Her husband is not keen on this new gig. In fact, none of her neighbors are happy about the new job either. And, the more involved she becomes with her work and these activists, the more worries she begins to have. Nonetheless, Helen is inspired and motivated to join the suffragists in their cause. She has found her voice and she is determined to make her dreams of equality a reality. Talk about a must-read! 

Gichon has written a wonderful book that I enjoyed spending the day with. I found myself unable to put the book down for anything. I just had to read all about Helen and the suffragists. It was such a great story! The history, the women, and the fight for our right to vote - exciting, thrilling, and inspiring. 

I would happily recommend The Accidental Suffragist to anyone looking for their next great read - you will LOVE this book!

Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!