girl crush

I love Sarah Vowell and I don't care who knows. She is a humorous writer who is interested in history, music and old plaques. Truly we are kindred spirits — except she can bring to life items that might seem mundane. And she does an amazing job of tying past happenings to modern life. 

Not least, she wrote this essay, which crystallized my thoughts perfectly. And I will always be grateful.

Her latest book is "The Wordy Shipmates," an examination of the Puritans, and before you roll your eyes, it is very informative and interesting. I laughed out loud a few times. If you're wondering why some Americans are so histrionic about our perceived slide into socialism, this book will help you understand the religious beliefs that built — and strained — the Massachusetts Bay Colony and, eventually, the nation.

"The Wordy Shipmates" also has some fascinating passages about the past of the godforsaken part of Connecticut where I used to live. Wish I had paid more attention to the history while I was there, but I was too busy trying to fight my way out of depression and hardship. So I had something in common with the early settlers after all.

One other thing that makes Vowell and I kindred spirits is that we were both raised in strong Christian homes — hers was Pentecostal, mine was evangelical — but sadly she no longer believes the tenets of her childhood. This is where we differ. She might not share the faith anymore, but she can explain it well and is not condescending or negative about it.

I actually met her once after a reading in New York City and it was a great highlight for me. She was with David Sedaris at the time and I stood there wishing I could make time stop and have them all to myself for hours of conversation. She signed my copy of "Take the Cannoli," a book which I loaned out years ago and have never seen since.

Official Amnesty Proclaimed — if you have it on your bookshelf, mail it back anonymously. Then buy "The Wordy Shipmates." Verily, ye shall thank me.