Book Discussion

Wednesday, February 19 at 6:30pm

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The Woman Behind the New Deal : the Life of Frances Perkins, FDR’s Secretary of Labor and His Moral Conscience by Kirstin Downey

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On December 16, 2024, President Biden signed a proclamation establishing the Frances Perkins National Monument in Newcastle, Maine, to honor the historic contributions of America’s first woman Cabinet Secretary and the longest-serving Secretary of Labor. Known as the first woman to hold a presidential cabinet position and the “Woman behind the New Deal,” Frances Perkins championed many labor rights that Americans enjoy today, including safety standards, Social Security, and shorter workweeks. Her impressive career and accomplishments, including as Secretary of Labor, opened the door for other women to hold high government positions. Written with a wit that echoes Frances Perkins’ own, award-winning journalist Kirstin Downey gives us a riveting exploration of how and why Perkins slipped into historical oblivion and restores Perkins to her proper place in history.

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Request this book through MILS(hardcover) or MILS(paperback). Additional copies are available in MaineCAT. Digital audiobook available on hoopla©.  Digital audiobook available on cloudLibrary.

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Because of the Wednesday holidays so no van delivery, the earliest these books could arrive in January 8. There would not be adequate time to read it for January 15 Book Discussion.