Jennie: The Life of the American Beauty Who Became the Toast--and Scandal--of Two Continents, Ruled an Age and Raised a Son—Winston Churchill—Who Shaped History

Mention to 100 people " if you know who Winston Churchill raise your hand " 100 hands rise. Ask "who is Jennie Churchill" and very few if any hands rise. Jennie Churchill was a most influential woman, long before her time. Winston and Jack Churchill's mother was smart, resourceful, independent and uninhibited to where she became one of the most influential people in Europe and the U.S. in the mid 19th century. She was visionary, strategic and raised two sons, one of whom contributed more to the defeat of Hitler and his Nazis party than anyone else. Jennie is a thoroughly interesting read about a woman who grew into her prestige, wasn't enamored with it and influenced countries, royalty and politicians to do the right things during her lifetime. The previous Jennie Jerome, before her marriage to Lord Randolph Churchill, was the daughter of a very wealthy, successful businessman from the US. Jerome Avenue in the Bronx borough of New York was named for her father. If you have any interest in understanding some of the 19th century history, why things were the way they were, how Winston Churchill emerged as a power in Britain and the world and how the Victorian era ended this is an easy, engaging enjoyable read.

A surprisingly good biography of an extraordinary woman. Perhaps the author exagerrates 9though I have no reason to think so), but it appears Jennie has the triple distinction of (a) being a major "cultural ambassador" of American values (especially concerning the scope of feminine life, which was much broader in the US than the UK at the time), (b) being Winston Churchill's mother, who not only gave him the only parental he received growing up, but who also gave him an understanding of America that, one must believe, was essential to the USA-UK alliance in WW II;and (c) an important political, social and diplomatic in the 1885 to 1915 period. As well as being an intelligent and nice person -- and one who was self-confident enough to enjoy a varied sex life. Before buying I didnt know what level of "popular" biography this would be, but it turned out to be just right -- accurate, interesting and reasonably well-written.

I read this book when I was a youngster. It was published back in the 60's. I loved it then. I just started reading it again to see if it holds up, after all these years, and it does. Its 773 pages, but not boring at all. Hard to believe because the detail and research are incredible.This book kind of got me started on history and biography. Additionally this book is History. An inside look at the future king of England, and head of the Edwardian Era, Edward the seventh. He was the oldest son of Queen Victoria. A very colorful charecter. Jennie was one of his many mistresses. As were Lily Langtree and many others. Its not hard to understand why. Jennie was very beautiful, intelligent, strong and spirited. She had many lovers. She was also Winston Churchill mother. Read it!

Jenny Jerome Churchill was a women ahead of time! What an amazing force of nature she must have been. She would have loved so much about todays world I think!The book was so well written, so enjoyable! I would have loved to have known this remarkable woman!

A fascinating book spanning many years as the 20th Century approached. An incredible portrait of an even greater lady. Very interesting times and exceptional personalities to accompany the journey.

A BIT TOO DETAILED FOR MY TASTE

I always like great stories that are also good history. This is a well-written book that is most likely fairly accurate historically speaking, about a very smart and talented woman who made the most of her "special skills." Like her or not, she was a fascinating, and accomplished lady, and admirable for all that she managed to do.

A fascinating story of a fearless, talented, brilliant American beauty, who made her effective way through the highest levels of 19th century British society and politics. Although he consumed much of her time and energy and demanded her influence on his behalf, that she was also Winston Churchill's mother is almost beside the point, for she and her milieu would have been worth a book no matter whose career she promoted.