I found this book to be a wonderful read. The author's husband is, in fact, gone to war, and she is left alone with a small child. From that frame of reference, she writes a comprehensive book of practical common-sense advice to other women in her situation. (Which, in 1942, were legion.) She writes with a chatty, no-nonsense tone that doesn't pull punches - especially considering the time frame in which she writes. Humor is perhaps too strong a term, but she does have a certain light confident tone that is cheerful without being Pollyanna-ish.

There are chapters on loneliness, on budgets, on dealing with furloughs. She writes about coping with rationing, occupying lonely hours, and what to tell the children. She is honest about worries and fears, without being depressing. There is one whole chapter on learning to recognize uniforms and insignia (so you don't look like an idiot in front of your husband), and another excellent chapter on how to write the essential "letters from home."

Since 1942 was relatively early in the U.S. involvement, rationing hadn't progressed much beyond sugar and leather. The reality of Hitler's treatment of the Jews wasn't yet known (although she does protest the beating and humiliation of Jews on the streets of Europe, she did not know about the extermination camps). She speculates about what further changes are coming, and is often quite accurate in her predictions.

What I found most touching was the final chapter, where the author discusses the woes left over from the First War, and what lies in store after this war. She wants - as we all do - a better world after the suffering and sorrow of this global conflict. But the title of the chapter is "What Are You Waiting For?" Gorham's premise is that we must start now to make things better. She specifically mentions improving racial relations (How can we gain the trust of the Asian populations if we still think whites are superior?), an idea that seems quite a bit ahead of her time.

All told, a great time capsule from a unique time. Highly recommended. ( )