Tell Me a Riddle, Requa I, and Other Works

Starred review from October 15, 2013

As an activist and writer, Tillie Olsen (1912-2007) committed herself to social justice and championing the marginalized and oppressed. This wonderful book brings together a variety of Olsen's works, including both her fiction and nonfiction (Silences) that had been published separately in the past. Olsen's classic short stories such as "I Stand Here Ironing," "Tell Me a Riddle" (winner of the O. Henry Award), and "O Yes" are republished here. Other fiction such as the novella "Requa I" and journalism pieces related to political strikes during the 1930s are also included. This reviewer read Olsen's social theories in graduate school but was not as familiar with some of the fiction available in this collection. Although the material was written in the mid-20th century, the themes of maternal love, alcoholism, death, marital struggles, illness, family dynamics, and racism, as well as the injustices Olsen decries in her nonfiction work, still resonate. This title also contains an excellent introduction by Olsen's granddaughter, poet Rebekah Edwards. Daughter Laurie Olsen wrote the foreword and biographical sketch that honor her mother's legacy. VERDICT An excellent volume that will appeal to anyone interested in women's studies, social justice, journalism, and American short stories and fiction.--Erica Swenson Danowitz, Delaware Cty. Community Coll. Lib., Media, PA

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