Plot summary, “Saint Mazie” by Jami Attenberg in 6 Minutes - Book Review
0"Saint Mazie" is a novel written by Jami Attenberg. It was published in 2015 and is inspired by the true story of Mazie Phillips-Gordon, a real-life woman who lived in New York City in the early 20th century.
The novel is set primarily in the 1920s and 1930s and is narrated by Mazie, a spirited and compassionate woman who works at the ticket booth of a local movie theater called The Venice. Mazie becomes known as "Saint Mazie" due to her kindness and willingness to help the less fortunate. She devotes her time to assisting the homeless and destitute individuals she encounters on the streets of the Lower East Side.
Through Mazie's perspective, the story explores the vibrant and diverse community of the Lower East Side, with its mix of immigrants, artists, and working-class residents. Mazie's relationships with her family, friends, and romantic interests are also explored, shedding light on her personal struggles and desires.
The narrative of "Saint Mazie" is presented through a variety of formats, including diary entries, interviews, and historical documents, giving readers a multifaceted and textured understanding of Mazie's life and the era in which she lived. The novel seamlessly weaves together Mazie's personal experiences with broader themes of social inequality, compassion, and the effects of urbanization.
"Saint Mazie" is a character-driven novel that provides an intimate and empathetic portrait of its protagonist. It captures the essence of a bygone era while exploring timeless themes of empathy, community, and personal growth. The novel received critical acclaim for its vivid depiction of New York City's history and its complex, fully realized characters.
Overall, "Saint Mazie" is a captivating and poignant novel that pays tribute to an unsung hero and offers a compelling exploration of humanity's capacity for compassion in the face of adversity.