The Power Age

September 21, 2020
In this uplifting collection of interviews, Doust (A Life in Frocks) shares the wisdom, experience, and advice of successful women over the age of 50. As an attempt to turn the tides on society’s deification of youth, Doust interviews a bevy of professionals—doctors, journalists, nutritionists, and sociologists among them—who detail and celebrate the process of getting older. Doust begins with women who describe healthy aging as the foundation of a good life, along with advice on stress reduction and staying fit. She then looks at how what one wears can affect confidence, interviews a stylist, and offers fashion tips for age appropriate yet moderately priced outfits such as “high-low” thrift shop fashion. Doust’s subjects also explore how experiences (particularly international travel) increase “cultural curiosity,” which Doust complements with travel and volunteering ideas for readers to plan a trip. Colorful profiles of prominent women, such as Ruth Bader Ginsberg, Yoko Ono, Helen Mirren, and Michelle Obama provide inspiration alongside the more clinical, professional advice on topics that include financial management, finding meaningful work, saving for retirement, and sexuality. In the standout interview, physician Ginni Mansberg offers a revealing, honest discussion of menopause. This eclectic survey of women who followed their passions will encourage and inspire.

December 1, 2020

In celebration of women growing older author Doust (The Crafty Minx) interviewed more than 50 iconic women, including Iris Apfel, Patti Smith, Michelle Obama, and Tina Turner. They covered topics from health and wealth to ageless style and sex, gleaned from personal experience in a variety of careers and relationships. Senior media executive Kirsten Galliott talks about mastering the art of reinvention, while philanthropist Gene Sherman explains how a lifetime of traveling sharpened her cultural curiosity. Other women discuss the grief and heartaches that come with growing older, and how they held on to hope with love and resilience. VERDICT This highly recommended comprehensive book is more than a pep talk for aging well. The inspiring messages will be welcome and valued by women of all ages.

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