Linda’s Book Obsession Reviews “Bessie” by Linda Kass, She Writes Press, September 8, 2023. On Tour with Suzy Approved Book Tours.

Linda Kass, the Author of “Bessie” has written an intriguing and memorable historical fiction novel about Bess Myerson. When I was younger, I remember Bess Myerson being Miss America from New York, and a celebrity on television. Later she worked in New York government. The author discusses how Bess Myerson, born from poor Russian parents, growing up in the Bronx, was an accomplished musician, and being the only Miss America to be college educated and Jewish, just after World War Two ended. Bess Myerson was also beautiful and tall, and presented a regal appearance.

I appreciate the well researched and well written novel that vividly describes the timeline, scenery, and the characters. Bess Myerson was often insecure and wanted to please her mother. Bess practiced piano, and learned to play the flute.She entered The Miss America pageant hoping to win the $5,000 prize that would let her continue her education. The author provided a glimpse into the competitive pageant life. At the time, there were people that didn’t want a Jewish winner to represent the pageant. Bess noticed that there weren’t any Black contestants. Many of these inequities made Bess realize that she needs to win to be able to make changes for the better.

I love the way the author writes a coming of age novel, and then writes about Bess as an adult and her struggles and successes. I would highly recommend this thought-provoking novel to others.