“A grand, sweeping panorama . . . richly written, finely detailed . . . vivid and memorable.”—Daily News (New York)Yearning for a better life, Anna Friedman fled Poland for New York at the turn of the century. Finding work as a maid for the Werner family, Anna discovers an elegance beyond her dreams—and the passion of Paul Werner, a man beyond her reach, even when she is in his arms. But it is … in his arms. But it is Joseph Friedman whom she marries. And through an act of illicit passion that will haunt her though all her days, Anna lifts Joseph from poverty to a wealth on which the Friedman dynasty would be based for generations. Sweeping from Jazz Age New York to Nazi Germany to a sun-baked Israeli kibbutz, Evergreen has become a modern American classic—an epic novel that spans three generations of an unforgettable family—and exposes the heart of an extraordinary woman: her marriage, her children, her deceit.
“A magnificent story . . . this beautifully written book will be treasured and reread for many years to come.”—Library Journal
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I read this book years ago, and its impact is still with me. The strength of the main character – woman – is so inspirational. Talk about strength of character and self awareness!!! She “knew her place” at that time, but she was smart enough to work her agenda even though. I think strong women don’t need to protest; they need to read this book to …
I loved this book as it took us from the turn of the century to the 1960s. It explored WW1, the market crash,the great depression, WW11and the 50s and 60s. It had great character development. As far as I was concerned, she killed off too many characters, but it was a great book.
Evergreen—the first in the Werner Family Saga—is Anna’s moving story, a poor Polish girl, who at fifteen, leaves her small village and immigrates to America in hopes of a better life. After falling in love with the wealthy, unattainable American, Paul Werner, she marries Joseph Friedman, a Jewish man who worships her. As their family grows, Anna …
i have loved Belva Plain’s books since I read my first one many years ago. The book Evergreen is a five part series that is well worth the read. Her stories are realistic and characters are as people truly are in life. Lives lived, truths revealed, and. lessons learned.
This book has made me a Belva Plain fan. I’ll definitely be seeking out others by her. Read it, you’ll love it!!
A good historic novel.
It’s been awhile since I read this book but I got this great feeling when I saw the title. There is a follow up companion book too. I don’t do series, but 2 was ok.
Poingnant writing about a families adjustment and history on coming to America.
I believe it covers 3 generations……
Loved this book. Reading the next one in her series. Written beautifully, great characters & great story.
Waiting for a sequel. Want to read all 5!
Good read, just a long one.
Great immigrant story
This book was a fabulous story of one particular Jewish family and their extended families who were touched in their ordinary lives by WWII and the story of how some of them came to America to try to make a better life. It reminded me of ‘A Woman of Substance’, which was a book I absolutely love. It is a must read!
Really good reading. Hard to put down Family thru many generations. Both happy and sad
I loved this book. It takes you away and leaves you with a sense of having been there. I needed more, so I am reading #2 in the series.
My favorite book ever! I’ve read it multiple times and will read it again!
Wonderful family saga
Wonderful book!! Couldn’t put it down. It just has everything you want in a book.
Loved it – started reading it 38 years ago when I went into the hospital for planned c-section.
I love Belva Plane. I read this book for the first time about 35 years ago. Still love it.
Bella Plain has always been a favorite author to read. My interpretation of her message to readers was that life has ups and downs, but we can live through them with grace.