A review by pamelarope
When the World Was Young by Elizabeth Gaffney

2.0

I listened to this book because I really liked the premise. I love reading about old New York, especially during World War II. I wound up being really disappointed in the book, though, because it was so nonlinear for the first half. The character of Stella Baker was portrayed as smart, strong, and loving of her daughter. Then something happens that contradicts all that. I also didn't care for the whole entomology plotline. I liked that Wally loved science, but hearing about the ants kind of made my stomach churn. I was also really disappointed in Wally at the end, for sleeping with two guys in so short of a time, and then getting pregnant. This story portrayed her as being strong and wanting to get a really good education, but not smart enough to avoid getting pregnant. Also, I had a hard time believing Leo would stay with her even though she was carrying another man's child. This novel had potential, but sadly, it didn't come to much.