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Lilli de Jong

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

80 posts | 35 read | 1 reading | 62 to read

A young woman finds the most powerful love of her life when she gives birth at an institution for unwed mothers in 1883 Philadelphia. She is told she must give up her daughter to avoid a life of poverty and shame. But she chooses to keep her. Pregnant, abandoned by her lover, and banished from her Quaker home and teaching position, Lilli de Jong enters a charity for wronged women to deliver her child. She is stunned at how much her infant needs her and at how quickly their bond overpowers her heart. Mothers in her position have no sensible alternative to giving up their children, but Lilli can�t bear such an outcome. Determined to chart a path toward an independent life, Lilli braves moral condemnation and financial ruin in a quest to keep herself and her baby alive. Confiding their story to her diary as it unfolds, Lilli takes readers from an impoverished charity to a wealthy family's home to the perilous streets of a burgeoning American city. Lilli de Jong is at once a historical saga, an intimate romance, and a lasting testament to the work of mothers. "So little is permissible for a woman," writes Lilli, �yet on her back every human climbs to adulthood.� From the Hardcover edition.

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review

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

Pick

pick

From Goodreads "A young woman finds the most powerful love of her life when she gives birth at an institution for unwed mothers in 1883 Philadelphia. She is told she must give up her daughter to avoid a life of poverty and shame. But she chooses to keep her."

Another really good historical fiction I've read this year. #recommended

22 likes1 stack add

quote

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

I think of this idea often, especially now. My hope is that people who have been judgmental of others experiencing financial insecurity or emotional stress are changed and more understanding now that COVID has affected us all in one way or another.

Tanisha_A Yes 🤗 5y

Tanisha_A Thanks for sharing this. 5y

Suet624 @Tanisha_A You‘re welcome! 😊💕 5y

53 likes3 comments

review

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

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pick

Thank you to @kspenmoll for sending me this story of a young woman in the 1800‘s, single and pregnant, trying to make it through the myriad number of obstacles that a “wayward” woman faced during that time period. Well researched, the book describes what life was like for women of all social strata during that time period.

kspenmoll Your review.❤️ Glad you enjoyed it. 5y

58 likes1 stack add1 comment

blurb

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

#DearDecember #EpistolaryNovel
@Eggs

Eggs "So little is permissible for a woman," writes Lilli, “yet on her back every human climbs to adulthood.” Great choice ???? 5y

50 likes1 comment

blurb

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

This post contains spoilers

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Crazeedi, kspenmoll, TheBookHippie, thereadingowlvina, Deblovestoread, Chrissyreadit, CoffeeNBooks, shellleigh33, sblbooks, Readswithcoffee

Chrissyreadit I did not get this tag!! I loved this book- I am so glad you did a buddy read. 5y

thereadingowlvina I absolutely loved this book and will re-read in future! Loved the prose. Another great choice for a buddy read! I'm hoping that there will be another book by this author 😁 5y

5 likes2 comments

blurb

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

This post contains spoilers

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Crazeedi, kspenmoll, TheBookHippie, thereadingowlvina, Deblovestoread, Chrissyreadit, CoffeeNBooks, shellleigh33, sblbooks, Readswithcoffee

CoffeeNBooks I was glad everything ended well for Johan, Lilli, and Charlotte. I was surprised that Lilli's dad seemed to have changed some, helping by making a table for them. 5y

sblbooks I like the happy ending. It did seem a bit abrupt, it went from one extreme to the other. 5y

shellleigh33 I fevered for Lillie and her baby for awhile. I was afraid that Lillie may have died or lost poor Charlotte. So I am happy with the ending and how it wrapped up with her finding Johan and the support she needed. 5y

See All 6 Comments

megnews I think I‘m in the minority. I don‘t know that I‘m unhappy with the happy ending but it seemed too abrupt. I feel like Lilli was on the verge of being able to make it on her own with Charlotte and I would have liked to see a while different way her story could have unfolded if John didn‘t return. I think with Lilli‘s tenacity, she could find a way to make it. 5y

Chrissyreadit I‘m happy for the ending but I agree Lilli would have been ok- and in some ways deserved better than Johan. 5y

thereadingowlvina The ending was satisfactory although it did seem haste. 5y

6 likes6 comments

blurb

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

This post contains spoilers

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Crazeedi, kspenmoll, TheBookHippie, thereadingowlvina, Deblovestoread, Chrissyreadit, CoffeeNBooks, shellleigh33, sblbooks, Readswithcoffee

CoffeeNBooks Lilli was such a strong woman, sacrificing and enduring so much, and steadfastly holding onto the belief that she could care for her daughter no matter what her circumstances were. 5y

sblbooks The most touching part for me was the amount of love Lili had for her baby. Even though she was an unwed mother and everyone was telling her that it was impossible to keep the baby. It seems you don't see that as much today, sadly. 5y

TheBookHippie I‘ve doula volunteered for 28 years and mentored teen moms, they still get horrific treatment in my community and even get kicked out of some of our schools, however there is improvements in society as a whole. What stayed with me is the religious shaming because it still happens so many years later. Horrific. 5y

See All 8 Comments

megnews Outside the motherhood theme, I think what affected me and will stay with me the longest is how cruel people can be. I could not believe when the wife Lilli worked for (can‘t remember name) kicked Lilli out. And the many poor conditions Charlotte was in. Just heartbreaking. 5y

kspenmoll Her experience of motherhood will stay with me, as well as her grit, determination, tenacity. She was driven by her deep connection & love for her daughter every step of the way. Her time on the street while homeless will stick with me as well. 5y

shellleigh33 Lillie‘s strength and determination to keep her baby and go against society‘s views of what was “the right thing to do” touched me. Lillie‘s love for Charolette showed just how much a mother will do to protect and care for their children ❤️ 5y

Chrissyreadit I think we just have not improved in caring for mothers and babies. We have the highest maternal and infant death rates in the first world- and women are both punished for being mothers and staying home as well as going to work with many levels of micro aggression - even in judging each other. 5y

thereadingowlvina Her love for her baby and the sacrifices she made to the point of being taken advantage of. She did not give up her baby. That was the most touching part for me 😥 5y

6 likes8 comments

blurb

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

This post contains spoilers

tagged users icon

Crazeedi, kspenmoll, TheBookHippie, thereadingowlvina, Deblovestoread, Chrissyreadit, CoffeeNBooks, shellleigh33, sblbooks, Readswithcoffee

TheBookHippie I think the saying “To be a mother is to forever having your heart walk outside your body “ fits here. 5y

megnews @TheBookHippie I agree. I was very touched reading this book as my oldest‘s daughter is 9 months. She is breastfeeding which has really taken me back to those early days with my kids. Reading about Lilli‘s mother love for Charlotte added another layer to my current experiences. 5y

Chrissyreadit I am so sorry- I was just scrolling because I thought it such a short discussion- I never received the notification for these last three! 5y

Chrissyreadit I felt such a strong connection to Lilli because of her love for her baby. It is an interesting contrast to the way wealthy families separated from their babies and did not seem bonded. 5y

megnews @Chrissyreadit I‘ve never understood how people could look down on people who feed and raise their kids or why they would let people they thought so little of do so. 5y

7 likes5 comments

blurb

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

This post contains spoilers

tagged users icon

Crazeedi, kspenmoll, thereadingowlvina, Deblovestoread, Chrissyreadit, CoffeeNBooks, shellleigh33, sblbooks, Readswithcoffee

CoffeeNBooks I think Johan is respectful enough of Lilli that he doesn't need her to tell him everything she endured in his absence. 5y

megnews I agree with her mother. I think secrets can be like lies. The more you tell or keep, the more you continue. I also think Lilli longs to be fully known & still loved. I sort of felt that Johan was taking the easy way out for himself to not have to know the pain his absence caused. I think it would have been nice to say “I‘ll listen if you‘re ever ready.” Then that gives Lilli a choice. 5y

sblbooks If there was ever a sequel to this book I think Lilli would tell him the truth. I don't think she would be able to keep secrets. I agree that most of the time, honesty is the best policy. In Lilli's situation though I don't think it's helpful to tell Johan everything she did. 5y

See All 7 Comments

TheBookHippie @sblbooks I agree with you. And @CoffeeNBooks he doesn‘t need her to tell him every detail. 5y

Chrissyreadit I think it depends on the secret. Humans are fragile and ego based. I think we should always weigh the cost. If she felt safe she should tell him, but in that time period it would be interesting to know his response. At the same time- when one is open nothing can be used to blackmail you. 5y

shellleigh33 @sblbooks I agree with your response. I believe that Lillie did what she had to do to protect her child and at the time she didn‘t have much other choice. I would hope that Jonah would understand that and still be there for her if she was to ever tell him. 5y

Readswithcoffee Sorry I‘m so late on this. I was out of town. Given the times, I‘m not so sure he could handle the truth. 5y

7 likes7 comments

blurb

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

This post contains spoilers

tagged users icon

Crazeedi, kspenmoll, TheBookHippie, thereadingowlvina, Deblovestoread, Chrissyreadit, CoffeeNBooks, shellleigh33, sblbooks, Readswithcoffee

kspenmoll If set today, she would have more choices: adoption, keep the baby with support from state/fed gov.( like book Maid), abortion, adoption. All are tough choices. But she developed such strength in coping with her choices, I think she would now too. There are homeless shelters & at least in Boston there was/is Boston Healthcare for the Homeless where my sister worked in her past. She still would face stigma, but not shunning Depending on religion. 5y

kspenmoll I truly don‘t know if I would be able to keep the baby with all the seemingly impossible barriers. Not sure if I would die or be jailed if homeless. 5y

megnews While religious values have relaxed over time, women still face a stigma behind unplanned pregnancies. If a woman keeps a child now, I think life is much easier than then. Not saying it‘s easy, just easier. Aid, food stamps, medical, childcare subsidy, housing, homeless shelters, different jobs available to women now than then. Still, not an easy life. 5y

See All 9 Comments

CoffeeNBooks I want to believe that Lilli wouldn't have had to make so many sacrifices and faced so much shame if she was in this situation today. The fact that people wouldn't employ her because she was an unwed mother seems absolutely absurd. 5y

sblbooks I know I wouldn't be able to care for a baby during that time. Even today would be difficult, but much easier. If I were Lilli I would have went in search of Johan rightway. It seems she was pretty sheltered. For example she didn't know she could write to the post office "general delivery" Which of course seems foreign to me today. I won't go anywhere without someone knowing where I am and how to reach me. 5y

Chrissyreadit 1. Even today, She would not be allowed to work in the religious schools in my area, but she could work in the public schools. 5y

Chrissyreadit 2. She would be eligible for some aid- such as a day care that is somewhat monitored- and are safer than the ones she experienced- but even in my area I have walked into a child care provider whose friend was there shooting heroin, and have had children find paraphernalia. But if she was able to get into one of the bigger day cares- it would work well. 5y

Chrissyreadit 3. DHHR in my area is very shame based, as are several of the local pantries and medical providers. I have accompanied families and the way I am spoken to before they know I am a professional support is awful and heartbreaking. But she might not be homeless or hungry. I say might- because I have worked with families who opted to live in their car rather than the shelter. I have gone to the shelter- and it was a very difficult situation for women 5y

Chrissyreadit With children. Doors cannot be locked and items are stolen all the time. Children must be with you at all times even on job interviews (cannot buddy up and help watch each other‘s kids), if you miss meal time hours due to work schedule you are responsible for feeding yourself and children- but can‘t use dining room or kitchen or bedroom. So safer but still difficult. 5y

5 likes9 comments

blurb

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

This post contains spoilers

tagged users icon

Crazeedi, kspenmoll, TheBookHippie, thereadingowlvina, Deblovestoread, Chrissyreadit, CoffeeNBooks, shellleigh33, sblbooks, Readswithcoffee

megnews I think Lilli‘s faith changes. I think she holds on to it, but rather than just being her mom‘s faith, it becomes hers through grappling through tough things within herself and with God. 5y

CoffeeNBooks I think many of the sacrifices she made were because of her religious beliefs, but I think her understanding of her faith changed toward the end. 5y

Chrissyreadit I think many of her choices were shaped by her faith. She would have changed in some way, just because life can either shake or strengthen faith. I do not feel like we were given a strong idea of what path she chose in her faith journey in the end. 5y

Crazeedi Almost every choice she made was grounded in her beliefs, from the father who would have disowned her to the sacrifices she made 5y

7 likes4 comments

blurb

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

Hi #LilliRead Buddy Readers. I was excited to see so many positive reviews as everyone finished reading this month. I could hardly wait til today to start our discussion. I ❤️ this quote from the author.

tagged users icon

Crazeedi, kspenmoll, TheBookHippie, thereadingowlvina, Deblovestoread, Chrissyreadit, CoffeeNBooks, shellleigh33, sblbooks, Readswithcoffee

SaturnDoo I have 10% more to go and I will be finished. 😀 5y

megnews @saturndoo awesome! Join in when you can. 5y

Chrissyreadit That is a very true quote❤️ 5y

26 likes3 comments

review

thereadingowlvina

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

Pick

pick

This is such an amazing book! I am so in love with the beautiful & spellbinding prose! A solid 5 stars read!

For my full review please visit https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/3043184868

@megnews @sblbooks #lilliread

27 likes1 stack add

review

Readswithcoffee

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

Pick

pick

A good book. Life was brutal for unwed mothers in the 1880s. I found myself internally shaking my head at how harshly people treated Lilli. I look forward to our discussion. #Lilliread

Readswithcoffee @megnews I will be out of town on discussion day & might not be able to participate in a timely fashion. I will do my best. 5y

megnews Feel free to join in whenever you can! 5y

41 likes2 stack adds2 comments

review

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

Pick

pick

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The sacrifice, determination, & beauty of a mother‘s love shines in the darkest of circumstances.
Enjoyed reading this with you all for #LilliRead and looking forward to next week‘s discussion.

tagged users icon

Crazeedi, kspenmoll, TheBookHippie, thereadingowlvina, Deblovestoread, Chrissyreadit, CoffeeNBooks, shellleigh33, sblbooks, Readswithcoffee

thereadingowlvina This is a really good book. Better than I thought! Looking forward to discussion next week 🙂 5y

TheBookHippie It‘s so good. Thank you so much. I would never have found it on my own. 5y

CoffeeNBooks I really liked this book! Looking forward to the discussion! 5y

CoffeeNBooks @TheBookHippie I agree! That's why I like buddy reads so much- they're usually books I wouldn't have known about otherwise. 5y

Chrissyreadit Yes- I‘m so glad you brought this book to my attention. 5y

35 likes5 comments

quote

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

tagged users icon

Crazeedi, kspenmoll, TheBookHippie, thereadingowlvina, Deblovestoread, Chrissyreadit, CoffeeNBooks, shellleigh33, sblbooks, Readswithcoffee

quote

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

tagged users icon

Crazeedi, kspenmoll, TheBookHippie, thereadingowlvina, Deblovestoread, Chrissyreadit, CoffeeNBooks, shellleigh33, sblbooks, Readswithcoffee

Crazeedi ❤❤ 5y

Chrissyreadit Yes. 5y

28 likes2 comments

blurb

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

I‘ve finished Notebooks 6-7 and now heading in to the last section of #LillIRead. I see a lot have finished the book. I‘m rooting for Lilli and Charlotte.

How does the diary form of the novel affect your experience of the story?

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Crazeedi, kspenmoll, TheBookHippie, thereadingowlvina, Deblovestoread, Chrissyreadit, CoffeeNBooks, shellleigh33, sblbooks, Readswithcoffee

Crazeedi I loved the way the book was written!! 5y

TheBookHippie I love this format!!!! 5y

Chrissyreadit I definitely feel more invested in Lilli by the diary format. I like her as a person and as a mom. It is easier to forgive her for some of the things she does or thinks because I have so much empathy for her situation. (I don‘t want to be too specific and spoil for those still reading.) 5y

See All 10 Comments

sblbooks I like it too! It seems more personal. 5y

megnews Since childhood I‘ve enjoyed novels written in diary or letter format. It‘s a first person account which I like reading and the diary format also gives deeper introspection I think. I agree with @Chrissyreadit that it makes you even more empathetic to her circumstances and trials. 5y

CoffeeNBooks I love that it's written in diary form- it definitely feels like you're a friend of Lilli's, traveling through life by her side. 5y

thereadingowlvina I finished the book! I have no self-control! I absolutely loved the story and the diary format works great. I enjoyed it as it seems personal and you really get to know Lilli in a deeper and meaningful way 🙂 5y

shellleigh33 I loved the way this book was written. Makes for a easy read 5y

Readswithcoffee I‘m still trying to pace my reading. I like the diary format. 5y

TheBookHippie @megnews I agree with all of this. My favorite thing to read in a memoir as well. 5y

36 likes10 comments

review

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

Pick

pick

⭐⭐⭐⭐
#LilliRead
An intriguing story about a single mother's stuggle to keep her baby in 1880s Philadelphia. I'm looking forward to the discussion next week. @megnews

Follow.my.read Another on I‘ve had for years and haven‘t read yet!!! 5y

Crazeedi It was very good! 5y

39 likes2 stack adds2 comments

blurb

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

#24B4Monday. I am a little late to the party as I would be IRL...😁My plan is to finish Lilli de Jong and Anne of Windy Poplars. HP is my current audiobk so will listen while cleaning and quilting and start Hild for #LitsyAToZ. I have failed miserably the last two times I tried a readathon so maybe third times the charm 🤷🏻‍♀️ I am off to work but hope to get in some time tonight. Happy Friday everyone.

@Andrew65 @TheReadingMermaid @jb72

jb72 Thanks for joining us! 5y

Andrew65 Good luck 😊👏👏👏 5y

34 likes2 comments

blurb

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

#MOvember Poor Lilli, pregnant, unmarried and alone she decides she‘s going to keep her baby. That‘s not easy 1883! I thought I would love this book, but the timing was off for me. Book is in hibernation but I hope to try again. #PapaDontPreach

TrishB There are a lot of hibernating books on Litsy 😁 (edited) 5y

Cinfhen Yup!!! But that‘s ok, books need to rest too!! @TrishB (edited) 5y

Reviewsbylola Such a gorgeous cover! 5y

81 likes3 comments

blurb

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

#LilliRead #motherandchildconnection
Just loving Lilli‘s philosophical awakening, which makes her miss discussing such matters with her mother.

My mother‘s birthday is November 28th. She died 4years ago at age 92. I am so lucky to have had her for so long. She remained sharp, opinionated, strong,generous, controlling at times,demanding of herself & others. I still miss our talks, our laughs, sharing books, wine, the beach, Cape Cod. ❤️

tagged users icon

megnews, sblbooks

batsy Beautiful post in remembrance of your mother ❤️❤️ 5y

megnews @Kspenmoll When I first read this quote last night I thought of my grandparents. Will be 10 years Dec 9 my Poppy died. June will mark 10 for my Gran. The holidays are the toughest time. How often I have felt the sentiments of this quote as well. I hope for peace & comfort for you this holiday season. 5y

kspenmoll @batsy ❤️❤️ 5y

See All 7 Comments

kspenmoll @megnews Thank you so much for your kind words- peace & love to yoy as well. 💕💕 5y

ValerieAndBooks Nice tribute. It is so hard, missing a parent 💖 5y

Suet624 Just saw this post. Mothers. Echoes of upbringing reverberate forever. 5y

kspenmoll @Suet624 Love the words, sentence you wrote.❤️Mothers. 5y

51 likes1 stack add7 comments

review

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

Pick

pick

Told through her notebooks, this is the story of Lilli de Jong, an unwed mother in the 1880's. Knowing her Quaker family and community would shun her because of her circumstances, she set out to forge her own way and to try to make it on her own with her baby.

@MegReads @sblbooks I couldn't stop reading, and just finished the book! I'm looking forward to our discussion of it next weekend! #LilliRead

kspenmoll I am reading ahead to for the same reason, just starting book 7. 5y

76 likes2 stack adds1 comment

blurb

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

When I‘m hosting, I try to stick to the reading schedule but it‘s hard not to get swept away with this story as many have. I want to know what happens with Lilli & Charlotte next. So glad it seems Lilli can be sure Charlotte is safe now. I‘m heading into Notebooks 6-7 today. But first, how do you think the death of Lilli‘s mother affected the course of her life?

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kspenmoll, TheBookHippie, thereadingowlvina, Deblovestoread, Chrissyreadit, CoffeeNBooks, shellleigh33, sblbooks, Readswithcoffee

shellleigh33 I believe that Lillie was very saddened by the death of her mother but that also her mother taught her very valuable life lessons during her lifetime (edited) 5y

sblbooks It totally changed it. She would not have been as likely to sleep with Johan.Lili would have never left home or been kicked out if her mother had lived. She probably would have been able to keep her teaching job. 5y

Chrissyreadit I think it absolutely changed everything. It sounded like her mother wanted her to marry Johan. I think Lilli also sought comfort from Johan. And she would have needed less comfort had she still been teaching and had her mother. 5y

See All 13 Comments

Chrissyreadit I am surprised by this seeming cruelty of the Quakers. I thought they were more peaceful and less judgmental but now I wonder if my understanding was wrong, or if meetings varied by congregation, or if this was a plot device. 5y

CoffeeNBooks I definitely think the death of her mother, as well as her dad remarrying so soon after, affected the course of her life so much. I definitely think so many things would have been different for Lilli if her mom had lived. I also think things would have been different for her if Patience wasn't such a horrible person. 5y

megnews @chrissyreadit I had similar thoughts about the Quakers. Maybe it is similar to Amish or Jehovah‘s Witness where the purpose of “shunning” is to bring the person back in the fold. I thought it was cruel to remove Lilli from teaching because of her father. 5y

Chrissyreadit @CoffeeNBooks I finished the book and could not remember when Patience came in. That is one hard woman. It made me wonder about her father. 5y

megnews @shellleigh33 @Chrissyreadit @sblbooks @CoffeeNBooks Lilli may have been less likely to sleep with Johan. If she had, she could have told her mother who would have helped her. Lilli‘s mother‘s beliefs have shaped Lilli‘s willingness to follow her “Inner Light” rather than conform to expectations, gave her the drive to be a good mother, & the strength & persistence to do so. Desire to fulfill a legacy can become stronger after losing a loved one. 5y

megnews @CoffeeNBooks @Chrissyreadit I had a little patience with Patience when she wanted to get rid of Lilli. I think it was common at that time for a stepmom & because of the pregnancy. Another mouth to feed & all & attention taken from her. I couldn‘t abide her stealing Lilli‘s mother‘s things that should have been for Lilli‘s memories!! Pure greed and meanness! 5y

TheBookHippie @megnews oh I do not like Patience ugh my friend had a step mom like that so horrific!!! I think Lillis whole trajectory of her life would have been different I think, however I do believe it gave her her fighting spirit. 5y

thereadingowlvina A sudden death of a parent, especially a mother, would definitely change the dynamics of a family. It's traumatizing & may leave a child in a denial mode for a while. So, it's hard on Lilli and more so when her dad remarried so soon - to a woman who despises Lilli. It's so sad! 😔 5y

shellleigh33 @megnews her stepmom is horrible the way she has does Lillie 😡. This hurts my heart so much for her to lose her mom then this women to come in and steal what little treasures she had and kick her out. 5y

kspenmoll Losing her mother suddenly, so quickly followed by her father taking up with her step mother( who clearly wanted Lilli gone) has to have been traumatizing. When she left she had no idea what her life would be. I am glad she kept Charlotte even though it has not been easy. Her mother‘s death was life changing- she lost her brother as well. @megnews live what you said about Lilli‘s mother‘s beliefs giving Lilli permission to follow her inner light- (edited) 5y

35 likes13 comments

quote

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

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Crazeedi, kspenmoll, TheBookHippie, thereadingowlvina, Deblovestoread, CoffeeNBooks, shellleigh33, sblbooks, Readswithcoffee

Riveted_Reader_Melissa True! 5y

TheBookHippie So so true! 5y

Crazeedi ❤❤❤ 5y

34 likes3 comments

quote

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

I thought of my daughter and her 8-month-old...

#LilliRead

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Crazeedi, kspenmoll, TheBookHippie, thereadingowlvina, Deblovestoread, Chrissyreadit, CoffeeNBooks, shellleigh33, sblbooks, Readswithcoffee

quote

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

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Crazeedi, kspenmoll, TheBookHippie, thereadingowlvina, Deblovestoread, Chrissyreadit, CoffeeNBooks, shellleigh33, sblbooks, Readswithcoffee

Chrissyreadit This book absolutely broke my heart a few times. 5y

TheBookHippie I so love this read! 5y

kspenmoll I love this quote & this book. Lilli is becoming an amazing human being. 5y

27 likes3 comments

review

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

Pick

pick

Definitely a pick. Character driven, and easy to feel empathy for the characters. Glad I‘m doing the buddy read because I really have a lot on my mind with this book. I highly recommend reading her end section discussing history and her information.

82 likes2 stack adds

blurb

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

I love this book, but I can‘t read it before bed because I‘m scared something awful will happen to Lilli or Charlotte. This reminds me a little of how I felt when I read Black Beauty as a child. I need some light reading before bed....

revenge4porgy Kinky Friedman is light reading 5y

Chrissyreadit @revenge4porgy I will add it to my TBR. I‘m using cozy mysteries and this sounds similar. 5y

revenge4porgy He‘s written mysteries like Armadillos and Old Lace, The Mile High Club, Ten Little New Yorkers. Then there‘s always Sue Ann Jaffarian and the Odelia Grey series 5y

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Crazeedi Really good book 5y

Suet624 I‘ve been thinking a lot about black beauty for some reason. It was the first book I ever adored. 5y

Chrissyreadit @Suet624 it‘s intense to think that book still creeps into my thoughts and I read it about 40 years ago. It is unforgettable to me. 5y

Suet624 @Chrissyreadit It IS a little creepy ... and awesome too. I have you beat, though. I read it about 55 years ago. 😄 I still remember many passages and events from it. And I sure did love that horse. 5y

Chrissyreadit @Suet624 yes!!! Loved The horse! People- not so much. ❤️❤️❤️❤️ 5y

67 likes8 comments

blurb

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

#quotable #LilliRead #buddyread
“Late night is the playground of despair.” Truth! Lilli is a wonderful human being. ❤️📚

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Hooked_on_books, Crazeedi, TheBookHippie, megnews, thereadingowlvina, Deblovestoread, Chrissyreadit, CoffeeNBooks, sblbooks, Readswithcoffee

Crazeedi I totally enjoyed this book, read in less than a day! 5y

thereadingowlvina Loved it! 5y

TheBookHippie Soooo goood!!! 5y

megnews “Late night is the playground of despair.” Too true 5y

Suet624 This feels especially true right now! #coronavirus 5y

43 likes5 comments

quote

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

Inspiring advice though difficult at times. #LilliRead

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Hooked_on_books, Crazeedi, kspenmoll, TheBookHippie, thereadingowlvina, Deblovestoread, Chrissyreadit, CoffeeNBooks, sblbooks, Readswithcoffee

Chrissyreadit I love the quotes you are choosing. 5y

megnews @chrissyreadit 😀 5y

shellleigh33 Just finished reading this book. Sorry I read ahead but it was so good. I can not wait to discuss it!!!! 5y

33 likes3 comments

quote

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

All new moms have been there. #LilliReads

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Crazeedi, kspenmoll, TheBookHippie, thereadingowlvina, Deblovestoread, Chrissyreadit, CoffeeNBooks, shellleigh33, sblbooks, Readswithcoffee

thereadingowlvina Yup 😐 5y

31 likes1 comment

quote

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

I love the descriptions of love and awe a mother feels for her child. #LilliRead

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Hooked_on_books, Crazeedi, kspenmoll, TheBookHippie, thereadingowlvina, Deblovestoread, Chrissyreadit, CoffeeNBooks, shellleigh33, sblbooks, Readswithcoffee

Chrissyreadit It‘s true. The entire time I‘m reading I have a visceral sense of empathy. 5y

TheBookHippie @Chrissyreadit I feel the same way. 5y

kspenmoll @Chrissyreadit The author captures new mother/child so authentically through Lilli. “Visceral sense of empathy” is perfect! 5y

27 likes3 comments

review

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

Pick

pick

#lilliread 4 ⭐ @megnews @sblbooks
I finished this today. And amazing story of resilience in the face of injustice for women of the late 1800s. Waiting to comment on book when all are done! Recommend
#MrBook1inamillion #litsypartyofone #24B4Monday #readathon @MrBook @Rachel.Rencher @Lucas.Rencher

MrBook 😁👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 5y

shellleigh33 I just finished this book. Can not wait to discuss it!!! 5y

Crazeedi @shellleigh33 me too!! 5y

60 likes1 stack add3 comments

blurb

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

My Saturday snacks! @MrBook #MrBook1inamillion #litsypartyofone #24B4Monday #readathon @Rachel.Rencher @Lucas.Rencher @Lynnsoprano
Currently working on tagged book and 'The Turn of Midnight'
@megnews - Lilli is so good!!

MrBook Whoa 😳! I really, really like this pic! 😊 5y

Crazeedi @MrBook everything tastes pretty yummy! Especially the DQ caramel moolatta! 5y

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quote

thereadingowlvina

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

Isn't this sad? 😥

#lilliread @sblbooks @megnews

Megabooks Fantastic quote. 5y

sblbooks True story! 5y

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blurb

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

I‘ve seen quite a few check ins for #LilliRead this week. I‘ve finished Notebooks 1-3 & moving on to the next week. How about everybody else? How do you like it so far? I really dislike Lilli‘s stepmom & I‘m wondering what happened to Johan & if we‘ll ever find out. I‘m interested in getting to the next part to see how Lilli & Charlotte make their way in the world. Lilli‘s already proven resourceful in finding the girls home herself. I‘m sure ⬇️

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megnews there will be hard times but I believe with Lilli‘s spirit they‘ll prevail. I hope so. 5y

CoffeeNBooks I just started Notebook 3. I'm almost afraid to keep reading because I'm afraid there's going to be so much heartache for Lilli. 😭 I'm sure there's not going to be a storybook ending where Johan finds out about Lilli's situation and comes back for her and Charlotte, but one can always hope. Perhaps he really did mean to send for her, but something happened to keep him from being able to? 🤔 5y

kspenmoll @megnews @CoffeeNBooks The Quaker background, Lilli‘s Mother & Stepmother, her pregnancy, the Home, Charlotte‘s birth- so much in a year & Lilli is resourceful, draws strength from the women around her & her mother‘s memory. It does not feel like a storybook ending type of book; I worry about Charlotte. I wonder to if something happened to her brother & Johan- dead? Ill? Injured? 5y

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TheBookHippie @kspenmoll I wonder this too. Did they not make it??? I am loving the read. I think Lilli is going to make it but not sure how. She seems to have so much tenacity. Reading on today I can‘t wait! 5y

megnews @coffeenbooks @kspenmoll Yes, I don‘t think it will be a fairy tale ending but I‘m not quick to judge Johan yet because I wonder if something happened since her brother never contacted them. 5y

megnews @thebookhippie agree with your question and the comment about Lilli‘s tenacity. She has a fierce mother love that I believe will bring them through any tough times. (edited) 5y

thereadingowlvina I just got my library hold last night and read only the first few pages. So I'll sit out this discussion to catch up on this book. But so far, I already liking this book. I have a feeling it's going to be an emotional book! 😕 5y

megnews @thereadingowlvina me too! Glad your hold came in! 5y

Chrissyreadit @megnews @TheBookHippie @CoffeeNBooks @kspenmoll I am enjoying the complexity of Anne. I also am sad for the other girls. I like this book, and think we still shame people for things that were out of their hands, and still blame and shame women for rape, so I have an underlying sense of frustration with the world as I read it. I also think Lilli is ahead of the time but I think quakers were progressive in some ways. I am nervous about heartache (edited) 5y

sblbooks I have so many questions going around in my mind. Why would the father marry his own cousin? I agree with @megnews, she is just awful! What happened to Johan and Peter? What's going to happen to Lili next? I'm enjoying it so far. 5y

Crazeedi @sblbooks @megnews the authors lyrical language is a joy to read. Lilli's courage and strength in unspeakable situations comes through in words that tug the heart 5y

shellleigh33 I can not wait to start the next notebooks today!! I am amazed by Lilli and her strength. I somehow thing Johan will come back in the picture but I am afraid it will be not by choice. And yes that step-mom 😡 5y

26 likes12 comments

blurb

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

Just completed notebooks 1-3 for the #lilliread looking forward to the discussion.

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TheBookHippie I‘m loving it!!! Do you like it so far? 5y

Chrissyreadit @TheBookHippie yes! I‘m enjoying it! 5y

66 likes1 stack add2 comments

blurb

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

#GratefulReads ##bookandsnack #Day9 #LilliRead
I always travel with mini saltines, a favorite snack.

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megnews, Alwaysbeenaloverofbooks, sblbooks

Alwaysbeenaloverofbooks ❤️❤️❤️ 5y

61 likes1 comment

blurb

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

Spending this rainy Friday evening with #coffeeandabook. #LitsyPartyOfOne #24B4Monday #MrBook1inaMillion

#GratefulReads #BookAndBeverage @Alwaysbeenaloverofbooks @OriginalCyn620

OriginalCyn620 🙌🏼📚☕️ 5y

Alwaysbeenaloverofbooks 💗💗💗 5y

76 likes2 comments

blurb

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

#LilliRead #busridereading #historicalfiction #motherlove
Loving this book, narrated in diary form. Reading on a bus to Boston to meet my sister!!!

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megnews, sblbooks

Ncostell Hope you have a great time in Boston! 5y

megnews I‘m enjoying it too. Going to read the next section this weekend. Enjoy Boston! 5y

kspenmoll @megnews @Ncostell I woke this morning to a sunny day. Plan to emerge after coffee and reading. So excited to be here for a few days; usually it‘s a day trip, and one I have not done in some time! Thank you both for your well wishes! 5y

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TheBookHippie I am loving this!! 5y

kspenmoll @TheBookHippie Me too. So many layers, history, women‘s issues, poverty, dirt poor city life, mothering, female friendships, so many well drawn characters. Lilli is such an authentic character, evolving already. 5y

Crazeedi @kspenmoll I just finished the book, couldn't put it down. Lillian's courage to stay true to herself is told in lyrical language 5y

kspenmoll @Crazeedi I went ahead but did not finish; just on bk 6. But it is compelling & I want to travel with her. Your sentence about Lilli & language nailed it. 5y

57 likes1 stack add7 comments

quote

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

#Lilliread. Really enjoying this book and can‘t wait to start next weeks part!

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Cinfhen, Crazeedi, kspenmoll, OriginalCyn620, megnews, thereadingowlvina, Deblovestoread, Chrissyreadit, CoffeeNBooks, sblbooks, Readswithcoffee

megnews Glad you‘re enjoying it! 5y

Crazeedi I should be getting mine any day 5y

shellleigh33 I am @megnews Thank you for letting me join 😊 5y

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shellleigh33 Hope you like it @Crazeedi I finished the first the notebooks yesterday and have been reading my #LMPBC pick I‘m enjoying it also 😉 5y

Cinfhen This book isn‘t grabbing me 😔I think im calling it quits for now @megnews 5y

Crazeedi @shellleigh33 @megnews I just received it from overdrive, I'll be starting it soon 5y

Crazeedi @Cinfhen that happens to me and I feel bad, but then I know there's so many other books waiting. I hope I like it 5y

Cinfhen I‘m sure it‘s me and all the other books I‘m juggling right now @Crazeedi I feel confident that you will love this one based on prior books you‘ve reviewed 5y

kspenmoll Love this quote! 5y

33 likes9 comments

blurb

Readswithcoffee

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

Just finished Notebook 1. This is shaping up to be a good one!

quote

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

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Cinfhen I finished the first 3 notebooks. Not sure I‘m feeling this book🤔I‘ll give it a few more chapters and see if it improves for me 5y

thereadingowlvina I'm still waiting for my library hold! 😥 5y

Crazeedi @thereadingowlvina I'm waiting for mine too! It says available soon!! 5y

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megnews @thereadingowlvina @crazeedi I think you‘ll both be able to catch up pretty quickly. 5y

megnews @Cinfhen I‘m just starting notebook 3. So far so good for me. Sometimes it‘s bad timing or just not the book for you. 5y

sblbooks I just finished notebook one, but I like it so far. 5y

megnews @sblbooks I just finished the first week‘s section and I like it so far too. 5y

CoffeeNBooks It was finally available for download this afternoon, so I'll start reading it tomorrow! 5y

Chrissyreadit @BethM this is one. So far I‘m enjoying it. 5y

37 likes9 comments

blurb

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

#LilliRead starts today! Read at the suggested schedule or at your own pace. Post your quotes and blurbs as you read. Discussion 11/30. Don‘t forget to tag me in your posts.

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Cinfhen, Crazeedi, kspenmoll, TheBookHippie, thereadingowlvina, Deblovestoread, Chrissyreadit, CoffeeNBooks, shellleigh33, sblbooks, Readswithcoffee

TheBookHippie Yes!!! Loving it! 5y

26 likes1 comment

blurb

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

#LilliRead #buddyread #NovemberRoad #Botmbuddyread
#bookmail

Look what came in the mail today. November is looking up!
❤️📚

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TheBookHippie, megnews, Alwaysbeenaloverofbooks, sblbooks

sblbooks I'm looking forward to Lilli, my book came last week. 5y

megnews I can‘t wait to get started! 5y

Alwaysbeenaloverofbooks 📚🙌🏻📚 5y

TheBookHippie Mine is enroute! 5y

Crazeedi Waiting for Lilli!! 5y

54 likes5 comments

quote

Lilli de Jong: A Novel | Janet Benton

“Nothing speaks so boldly as a flower.” #TRUTH 🌸🌹🌻🌷🌼🌺 #LilliRead I‘m only a little bit into the book, but so far the writing and story is engaging. Getting Hannah Kent vibes.

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megnews I‘ll be starting Friday. Trying to wrap up a couple others first! Glad you‘re enjoying it so far. 5y

95 likes1 comment