Connie Schultz’ memoir, a book that came out in 2007, wrapped up 2015 perfectly for me. …and His Lovely Wife is the story of the journalist’s year on the campaign trail, the year she gave up her career to support and campaign for her new husband, Sherrod Brown, while he ran for Senator from Ohio.

Schultz is an outspoken supporter of the working class, so her late-in-life marriage to the congressman from Ohio, Sherrod Brown, united two campaigners. But, only a short time into their marriage, the Democrats urged Brown to run for the Senate seat held by Republican Mike DeWine. And, Schultz was the last one to agree, knowing it would change their lives, change her career, forever. The Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist had the feeling she would have to put her career on hold in order to travel throughout the state of Oho.

…and His Lovely Wife is a tribute to two hardworking supporters of the working class, who took a year out of their lives to hit the campaign trail, hoping they could make a difference in the lives of the middle class. Connie Schultz tells the story of that year with humor and love, but she isn’t afraid to point out the problems on the campaign trail, along with her fears, and Sherrod Brown’s fears that he would let down the people who were supporting him. It’s a fascinating look inside a campaign, written only as a journalist and wife could write it.

Connie Schultz’ account is a refreshing, positive story following a political year that has been difficult to watch. And, 2016 will probably be just as bad. ...and His Lovely Wife, with its humor, love, and passion for the ordinary person, is charming and thoughtful.

*****
Connie Schultz is a columnist at Creators Syndicate. She also has a Facebook page where she encourages civil discourse on topics of the day.

…and His Lovely Wife by Connie Schultz. Random House. 2007. ISBN 9781400065738 (hardcover), 280p.

*****
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