Women and Aging

Library Journal

``Strong stuff from old women'' is a better title for this collection of fiction, poetry, art, photography, journals, and essays. Many contributors write from a feminist perspective, not about the physical or financial problems of aging, but about the social ageism that creates invisibility. (When gerontologists talk about loneliness being inevitable as friends die, they assume the old cannot have friendships with younger people.) The anthology makes old women visible with positive images, close attention, and space to show their world. Especially noteworthy: the interview with feisty Meridel Le Sueur; the pictures of women over 90 done by a photographer over 90; and Elizabeth Layton's witty self-portraits. The bibliography could be used to set up a display or discussion group. Sally Mitchell, English Dept., Temple Univ., Philadelphia