Review: "The Autobiography of Mrs. Tom Thumb" by Melanie Benjamin

In this novel by Melanie Benjamin, she takes on the task of writing a historical fiction novel about the wife of Tom Thumb, Lavinia Warren Bump Stratton. This story covers Lavinia’s life from birth to approximately age 42. She was born a normal size baby but then she stopped growing in size and was only 32 inches tall. Her body did mature and she grew into a very attractive woman and became known as the “Little Queen of Beauty”. From her harrowing experiences on a riverboat on the Mississippi to her celebrated career with P. T. Barnum, this story encompasses it all.

Ms. Benjamin’s writing style, in this as in her previous novels, is entertaining. She uses the facts and spins a believable story that compels you to investigate further into the facts of her characters’ lives after you complete the novel. Unfortunately, I did not enjoy the character of Lavinia. I found her egotistical and vain. She was also afraid, although rightly so, to enjoy life. She had no compunction in lying to people around her if it suited her designs.

If you are a fan of Ms. Benjamin, definitely pick up this book. Although it wasn’t a favorite of mine, I loved the writing, just not the character.