Quarter Finalist
Assessment:
Plot: The author tells his tale to perfection. He adds just enough details and explanation without breaking the rhythm of the prose. A compelling read.
Prose: The prose is near perfect, reminding the reader of a beautiful melody. The descriptions are vivid and memorable.
Originality: The author has mined his grandmother’s stories and created a unique book about a familiar subject.
Character Development: Bubbie is a fully realized, rich character. The author has captured her voice from the first page—and this remains with the reader long after the book is finished.
Blurb: Managing Bubbie is a skillfully written memoir with an endearing cast of characters. The author brings to vivid life the struggles of an amazing woman.
Date Submitted: April 11, 2018
"Oy Vey! 'Managing Bubbie' is a great true story."
"In the uncompromising, larger-than-life Bubbie, her family has their hands — as well as their hearts — full. Her stirring story is one that should be widely shared." (Starred Review)
"Lazega tells his Bubbie's story with compassion, humor and dead on accuracy"
WINNER OF THE GOLD MEDAL AWARD FOR HUMOR. "A book that is emotional, hysterical, historical, and a downright must-read. In a world that only allows 5 stars, Bubbie deserves a million. Oy!"
"Russell Lazega brilliantly developed the character of his Bubbie as well as the stunning and historical world she lived in. Her adventures were so inspiring while retaining such an historical touch that I could not put the book down. I felt I was back again with my own Bubbie, all between the covers of 'Managing Bubbie.'"
"MANAGING BUBBIE provides an interesting and inspiring tribute..." (5 Stars)
"A successful twofer: a moving ode to a beloved family matriarch and a valuable reminder about the role of history in shaping even seemingly ordinary lives."
" Any who want to be moved by their biographical reading; to feel part of a family circle and part of past and present Jewish worlds abroad and in America, will find Managing Bubbie a powerful read." - D. Donovan, Senior Reviewer
"Managing Bubbie is more than a book about sweet stories from a Yiddish grandmother who will make you laugh and wish someone loved you as much. It is an epic piece of history caught in the pages of a loving book, which will surely touch your heart."
WINNER OF THE GOLD MEDAL AWARD FOR BIOGRAPHY "[A] heartwarming and hysterical memoir" - Heather Osborne
