Ruth Paine is a pivotal figure in history. I never knew much about her before reading this book. I knew I didn't like her attitude when I'd seen her interviewed. It was like her eyes would glitter with excitement at the attention. I never knew before that she came from such a wealthy, entitled and privileged background, similar to the Kennedys. She never had to worry about anything truly threatening her existence or choices. Interesting. She is big on fixing other people's lives to suit herself apparently. She didn't do so well in Dallas in the sixties.

What did she do that changed history? She recommended Lee Harvey Oswald for a job in the School Book Depository in Dallas a month before the assassination of President Kennedy and she allowed his wife and children to live with her and she allowed him to spend his last night in her house. Depending on what you believe about the crime, she's pivotal no matter how you slice it up.

Was she a totally benevolent figure, an innocent dupe? Watch her interviewed on Youtube and decide for yourself. Marina Oswald (the happy widow) couldn't wait to put distance between herself and Mrs. Paine once she got the chance. They are both still alive, but have nothing to do with each other. Mrs Paine's kids sound like they are more messed up than Marina Oswald's kids. Some weird irony at work there.

I saw this book recommended by Stephen King in his 11/22/63 and came to read. It has given me a lot better understanding of Mrs Paine and her husband and how they operated.

The author is totally sympathetic to her and in her corner all the way. You couldn't ask for a sweeter love letter than this book. Still, she gives me the heebie jeebies, but I learned a lot more about her background that made me want to reread some of the better books on the whole tragedy.

Lots of time has passed and perspective of time and the behaviors of the people involved is interesting to follow. I enjoyed reading this, although I didn't join the Ruth Paine fan club once I was finished.

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Created Oct 29, 2019 at 9:38am • Submit your own review...