Books

The “Round Robin” letter writing concept is a brilliant lost art, that Vivian Smith kept alive for 76 years. Beginning in her "Rosie Riveter" Days, Vivian (who was an accomplished writer - The Washington Post, The New Yorker, Virginia Cardinal and others) was a quiet feminist who, through her group correspondence and clever cartooning, questioned the status quo of a woman’s journey through the 1950’s into current times today. Sharing her life with 13 other best friends from The College of Wooster (OH) Grad class of 1947, this book is her story. In her letters, we witness Vivian’s thoughts on familial and social dilemmas, coupled with her responses to the news and questions from her team of gal pal “Robins.” Like a concise, charming, elegant, and entertaining diary, we peek into the mid-century days of 14 very different women who married, parented, and assumed the domestic responsibilities, as they did their best to make life happen, rather than just let life happen. Vivian’s daughter, the acclaimed singer/songwriter, Debi Smith, lovingly serves as co-writer and editor, adding italicized notes with heart and humor, so that all the Round Robin writers’ references are made clear, facilitating an enjoyable reading experience. While mother and daughter partnered in this very insightful publication, it also serves as a carousel of time in the Smith world. Here is Viv, a burgeoning post war college grad of the Pre-Feminist Era, and then here comes daughter Debi, born in the ’50’s who grows up in the 60’s and 70’s to become a creative artist with a successful career, along with a family of her own!