The Red Tent by Anita Diamant

This is the type of book I recommend to every person, especially women. The story is based on the story of Dinah, the only daughter of Jacob. Her story is mentioned in the Book of Genesis. It is told from Dinah's point of view.

The time frame in which this story is set during a time when God is still not completely accepted by all. The differences between Dinah's Mother's deities and her Father's God leave a lasting impression on Dinah and her life. The differences in religion and lifestyle between those in Egypt and those in the countryside are explored.

Women have a different roles and are treated differently depending on the area in which they reside. The red tent is the retreat for women during their menses cycle. All women seek solace in the red tent during this time and are doted upon by those who have not yet reached that age of maturity or have lived past their moon cycle.

We follow Dinah throughout her life. She is a child when we are first introduced to her. The rituals that follow a young woman throughout her life-childhood to puberty, first love, marriage, child birth, loss, servitude, and finding love again. The unfortunate part is that Dinah suffers a lot in her lifetime. Every time it seems that things are starting to look up for Dinah, tragedy strikes.

The story also centers around Dinah's knack for midwifery and the name she creates for herself. Being a nurse I know the processes we take during child birth. It's amazing to see the differences described. Some of the practices noted in the book make a lot of sense and are still practiced today.

Dinah stays true to herself and lives life the best that she can. The book paints an interesting picture of another time. It was turned into a mini-series on TV, as well. I look forward to seeing it.

Happy reading!

Judi