Review of Barbra Streisand: On the Couch
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SarahGyanSeeraj2015
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Review of Barbra Streisand: On the Couch
[Following is a volunteer review of "Barbra Streisand: On the Couch" by Alma H. Bond, Ph.D..]
If you are a fan of Barbara Streisand, this is the book for you. Barbara Streisand: On the Couch by Dr. Alma is a psychoanalytical book which explores Barbara’s personal experiences throughout life. It covers a plethora of topics, extending from sex to religious and cultural values.
Firstly, the narrator does not present the traditional chapter, but, uses dated accounts of the meetings in the office. Barbara starts off the conversation stating that in the past therapists were unable to help her and that she spent a substantial sum of money to be cured.’ The therapist reassures her and makes her comfortable to share all her memories.
As the visits continue, Barbara focusses on her father’s death and its impact on her life. She also emphasizes on her lack of love or yearning for love which she does not receive at a young age. She explains that she feels this way because her mother regarded her as ugly and was not comforting as a mother should be. In addition, she grew up in abject poverty and had a hunger to thrive for more. In this essence, this book appeals to those who have suffered as youngsters and want to become famous or have successful careers.
It also relates to women who have had failed relationships and marriages. Barbara bears her soul to the public, giving accounts of sexual experiences with her husband as well as other lovers. She does not hesitate to expose the good, the bad and the ugly which makes the book realistic. She also gives details on the value of each of these men, impacting on her career. For example, her husband, Elliot, was involved in theatre while her other companion was her personal stylist.
Barbara’s vivid accounts of her life make this book relatable to young women who are experiencing personal problems at work or with respect to relationships. The use of Yiddish also adds a personal touch to her Jewish culture, but the placement of the meanings of the words makes it difficult for the average reader to follow. This could negatively impact on the audience’s comprehension of her experiences.
Furthermore, the audience is given a clearer understanding of the challenges that young actors and actresses face in the 1960s. This imparted knowledge can be compared to Hollywood in the 21st century.
Midway through the book, we get insight into the therapist’s perspective on her life, as she compares herself to Barbara Streisand. She admits that she is a bit envious of Barbara's successful career and questions her choices in life.
I would give this book 4 out of 4 stars because it is appealing to young women who are in pursuit of their goals. It is also very realistic and illustrates that famous people are only human.
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Barbra Streisand: On the Couch
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
If you are a fan of Barbara Streisand, this is the book for you. Barbara Streisand: On the Couch by Dr. Alma is a psychoanalytical book which explores Barbara’s personal experiences throughout life. It covers a plethora of topics, extending from sex to religious and cultural values.
Firstly, the narrator does not present the traditional chapter, but, uses dated accounts of the meetings in the office. Barbara starts off the conversation stating that in the past therapists were unable to help her and that she spent a substantial sum of money to be cured.’ The therapist reassures her and makes her comfortable to share all her memories.
As the visits continue, Barbara focusses on her father’s death and its impact on her life. She also emphasizes on her lack of love or yearning for love which she does not receive at a young age. She explains that she feels this way because her mother regarded her as ugly and was not comforting as a mother should be. In addition, she grew up in abject poverty and had a hunger to thrive for more. In this essence, this book appeals to those who have suffered as youngsters and want to become famous or have successful careers.
It also relates to women who have had failed relationships and marriages. Barbara bears her soul to the public, giving accounts of sexual experiences with her husband as well as other lovers. She does not hesitate to expose the good, the bad and the ugly which makes the book realistic. She also gives details on the value of each of these men, impacting on her career. For example, her husband, Elliot, was involved in theatre while her other companion was her personal stylist.
Barbara’s vivid accounts of her life make this book relatable to young women who are experiencing personal problems at work or with respect to relationships. The use of Yiddish also adds a personal touch to her Jewish culture, but the placement of the meanings of the words makes it difficult for the average reader to follow. This could negatively impact on the audience’s comprehension of her experiences.
Furthermore, the audience is given a clearer understanding of the challenges that young actors and actresses face in the 1960s. This imparted knowledge can be compared to Hollywood in the 21st century.
Midway through the book, we get insight into the therapist’s perspective on her life, as she compares herself to Barbara Streisand. She admits that she is a bit envious of Barbara's successful career and questions her choices in life.
I would give this book 4 out of 4 stars because it is appealing to young women who are in pursuit of their goals. It is also very realistic and illustrates that famous people are only human.
******
Barbra Streisand: On the Couch
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Latest Review: A Year Of The Teacher by Steve Logston
