What doyouthink?
Rate this book
My Mrs. Brown
From William Norwich, the well-known fashion writer and editor, an unforgettable novel about a woman with a secret who travels to New York City on a determined quest to buy a special dress that represents everything she wants to say about that secret…and herself.
Sometimes a dress isn’t just a dress.
Emilia Brown is a woman of a certain age. She has spent a frugal, useful, and wholly restrained life in Ashville, a small town in Rhode Island. Overlooked especially by the industries of fashion and media, Mrs. Brown is one of today’s silent generations of women whose quiet no-frills existences would make them seem invisible. She is a genteel woman who has known her share of personal sorrows and quietly carried on, who makes a modest living cleaning and running errands at the local beauty parlor, who delights in evening chats with her much younger neighbor, twenty-three-year-old Alice Danvers.
When the grand dame of Ashville passes away, Mrs. Brown is called upon to inventory her estate and comes across a dress that changes everything. The dress isn’t a Cinderella confection; it’s a simple yet exquisitely tailored Oscar de la Renta sheath and jacket—a suit that Mrs. Brown realizes, with startling clarity, will say everything she has ever wished to convey. She must have it. And so, like the inspired heroine of Paul Gallico’s 1958 classic Mrs. ‘Arris Goes to Paris, Mrs. Brown begins her odyssey to purchase the dress. For not only is the owning of the Oscar de la Renta a must, the intimidating trip to purchase it on Madison Avenue is essential as well. If the dress is to give Mrs. Brown a voice, then she must prepare by making the daunting journey—both to the emerald city and within herself.
Timeless, poignant, and appealing, My Mrs. Brown is a novel for every mother in the world, every woman who ever wanted the perfect dress, and every child who wanted to give it to her.
Sometimes a dress isn’t just a dress.
Emilia Brown is a woman of a certain age. She has spent a frugal, useful, and wholly restrained life in Ashville, a small town in Rhode Island. Overlooked especially by the industries of fashion and media, Mrs. Brown is one of today’s silent generations of women whose quiet no-frills existences would make them seem invisible. She is a genteel woman who has known her share of personal sorrows and quietly carried on, who makes a modest living cleaning and running errands at the local beauty parlor, who delights in evening chats with her much younger neighbor, twenty-three-year-old Alice Danvers.
When the grand dame of Ashville passes away, Mrs. Brown is called upon to inventory her estate and comes across a dress that changes everything. The dress isn’t a Cinderella confection; it’s a simple yet exquisitely tailored Oscar de la Renta sheath and jacket—a suit that Mrs. Brown realizes, with startling clarity, will say everything she has ever wished to convey. She must have it. And so, like the inspired heroine of Paul Gallico’s 1958 classic Mrs. ‘Arris Goes to Paris, Mrs. Brown begins her odyssey to purchase the dress. For not only is the owning of the Oscar de la Renta a must, the intimidating trip to purchase it on Madison Avenue is essential as well. If the dress is to give Mrs. Brown a voice, then she must prepare by making the daunting journey—both to the emerald city and within herself.
Timeless, poignant, and appealing, My Mrs. Brown is a novel for every mother in the world, every woman who ever wanted the perfect dress, and every child who wanted to give it to her.
288 pages, Hardcover
First published April 12, 2016
Ratings&Reviews
Friends&Following
Create a free accountto discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 462 reviews
February 7, 2017
4★
For the past two days I have been in a state of reading in-joyment. How to explain? There’s the part where
"Mrs. Brown told Alice all about the lucky occurrences and blessed coincidences that had made the past forty-eight hours not only possible, but also irresistible.”
But that would spoil it for you. Simply put it’s about a magical black dress that’s impossibly irresistible.
“Hmm, I don’t know, looks like a kids’ book for grown-ups, but...”
So it is and I say so what? Do you want to be charmed and delighted? How about a lovely two day outing to the book spa?
"Mrs. Brown has a noble spirit—the honorable loneliness of the American grown-up. A life sustained by quietude and the energies of tolerance, kindness, courtesy, and acceptance. In a blustery world, it’s courageous to move quietly, claiming few, if any, treasures except one’s solitary dignity... When every excitement you ever hoped for or imagined had happened or it hadn’t, and now you knew it never would, what was left? What was there to look forward to?”
Ah, the black dress, and where you’re going to wear it, and the people you will meet who will assist you with your dream and breathe new life into humanity. After finishing, my literary heart felt like it had just experienced a really good massage. Go ahead, treat yourself to this little treasure and afterwards a very expensive piece of chocolate or glass of champagne, or, as in my case, both. YOLO
For the past two days I have been in a state of reading in-joyment. How to explain? There’s the part where
"Mrs. Brown told Alice all about the lucky occurrences and blessed coincidences that had made the past forty-eight hours not only possible, but also irresistible.”
But that would spoil it for you. Simply put it’s about a magical black dress that’s impossibly irresistible.
“Hmm, I don’t know, looks like a kids’ book for grown-ups, but...”
So it is and I say so what? Do you want to be charmed and delighted? How about a lovely two day outing to the book spa?
"Mrs. Brown has a noble spirit—the honorable loneliness of the American grown-up. A life sustained by quietude and the energies of tolerance, kindness, courtesy, and acceptance. In a blustery world, it’s courageous to move quietly, claiming few, if any, treasures except one’s solitary dignity... When every excitement you ever hoped for or imagined had happened or it hadn’t, and now you knew it never would, what was left? What was there to look forward to?”
Ah, the black dress, and where you’re going to wear it, and the people you will meet who will assist you with your dream and breathe new life into humanity. After finishing, my literary heart felt like it had just experienced a really good massage. Go ahead, treat yourself to this little treasure and afterwards a very expensive piece of chocolate or glass of champagne, or, as in my case, both. YOLO
May 26, 2024
When is a dress more than just a dress?
Deceptively packaged as a fairy tale-like story about a simple woman and her quest for a very special dress, this novel addresses very deep issues, as well.
In this narrative, author William Norwich (who has a background in fashion) thinks about deep longings and aches of the heart, while also thinking about the role our clothes play in our lives.
He also takes the fashion industry to task.
Mrs. Brown, speaking of her generation (she is in her 60’s), says,
"We'd give anything to be accepted in a boardroom, if the fashion industry would only understand that. We don't all want to be sexpots, or cougars, or just covered up in droopy blouses and trousers. They're also something alluring, very, very, alluring about a dress that is perfectly correct. But in an effort to make my generation disappear no one sells clothing that empowers us. There's only ridicule, condescension, or dismissal."
My Mrs. Brown honors women.
William Norwich has written a feel-good, tale that should be read.
I Loved it immensely, and recommend it, highly.
Deceptively packaged as a fairy tale-like story about a simple woman and her quest for a very special dress, this novel addresses very deep issues, as well.
In this narrative, author William Norwich (who has a background in fashion) thinks about deep longings and aches of the heart, while also thinking about the role our clothes play in our lives.
He also takes the fashion industry to task.
Mrs. Brown, speaking of her generation (she is in her 60’s), says,
"We'd give anything to be accepted in a boardroom, if the fashion industry would only understand that. We don't all want to be sexpots, or cougars, or just covered up in droopy blouses and trousers. They're also something alluring, very, very, alluring about a dress that is perfectly correct. But in an effort to make my generation disappear no one sells clothing that empowers us. There's only ridicule, condescension, or dismissal."
My Mrs. Brown honors women.
William Norwich has written a feel-good, tale that should be read.
I Loved it immensely, and recommend it, highly.
July 16, 2016
When is a dress more than just a dress? When it represents one's aspirations, memories, sorrows, and secrets of the heart.
Deceptively packaged as a fairy tale-like story about a simple woman and her quest for a very special dress,My Mrs. Brownaddresses very deep issues and literally left me in tears.
Emilia Brown is a simple, quiet, plain, and austere woman "of a certain age" who has lived her entire life in the tiny town of Asheville, Rhode Island. Though life hasn't given her much, she's managed with a smile, a kind heart, and a solid work ethic. When Asheville's wealthy doyenne passes away, Emilia helps the estate planners go though the house. While taking an inventory of the closet, Emilia discovers"a sleeveless black dress and a single button jacket made of the finest quality wool crepe. It's correctness was its allure, suggesting endless possibilities and the certainty of positive outcomes if one wore this dress. The richness of this dress -- its elegance and poise was the work of a master."
Seized by a feeling she's never experienced, Emilia decides she *must* own a dress like this -- even when she discovers the dress is an Oscar de la Renta, and the cost will be $7,000. Even more, Emilia decides she must make the trip to the Oscar de la Renta flagship store in midtown Manhattan to purchase the dress, though she's barely set foot outside of Asheville.
While scrimping and saving Emilia is derided by those she works with. Who does she think she is to buy such an expensive dress? And if she's buying such an outrageously expensive dress why is she buying such a boring one? She has no need for an expensive dress in any circumstance, so why not get one for the red carpet, rather than one that looks like she's going to a court room?
As the story progresses the reader follows Emilia as she saves and during her trip to NYC. We learn her back story, and piece by piece her reason for wanting the dress. In this narrative, author William Norwich (who has a background in fashion) thinks about deep longings and aches of the heart, while also thinking about the role our clothes play in our lives. He also takes the fashion industry to task. Emilia, speaking of her generation, says,"We'd give anything to be accepted in a boardroom, if the fashion industry would only understand that. We don't all want to be sexpots, or cougars, or just covered up in droopy blouses and trousers. There also something alluring, very, very, alluring about a dress that is perfectly correct. But in an effort to make my generation disappear no one sells clothing that empowers us. There's only ridicule, condescension, or dismissal."
In an interview with Women's Wear Daily, Norwich was asked what he hoped readers would take away from the book. He answered: “that being an American grown-up is actually an honorable thing, that balance is OK, that loneliness is inevitable and that underneath the superficial there is a life for all people. And it’s not going to be what you see or what they say. Quiet people are the ones you want to love and know. Quietude is good after all the noise we’ve gone through culturally.”
This could have actually been a 5 star book for me, but a few completely ridiculous plot points knocked it down a notch. (yes, it's a fairy tale of sorts, but it still had to be at least somewhat believable).
Thank you to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for a galley of this book in exchange for an honest review (note, even though I had a galley I listened to the audio, which was quite good).
Deceptively packaged as a fairy tale-like story about a simple woman and her quest for a very special dress,My Mrs. Brownaddresses very deep issues and literally left me in tears.
Emilia Brown is a simple, quiet, plain, and austere woman "of a certain age" who has lived her entire life in the tiny town of Asheville, Rhode Island. Though life hasn't given her much, she's managed with a smile, a kind heart, and a solid work ethic. When Asheville's wealthy doyenne passes away, Emilia helps the estate planners go though the house. While taking an inventory of the closet, Emilia discovers"a sleeveless black dress and a single button jacket made of the finest quality wool crepe. It's correctness was its allure, suggesting endless possibilities and the certainty of positive outcomes if one wore this dress. The richness of this dress -- its elegance and poise was the work of a master."
Seized by a feeling she's never experienced, Emilia decides she *must* own a dress like this -- even when she discovers the dress is an Oscar de la Renta, and the cost will be $7,000. Even more, Emilia decides she must make the trip to the Oscar de la Renta flagship store in midtown Manhattan to purchase the dress, though she's barely set foot outside of Asheville.
While scrimping and saving Emilia is derided by those she works with. Who does she think she is to buy such an expensive dress? And if she's buying such an outrageously expensive dress why is she buying such a boring one? She has no need for an expensive dress in any circumstance, so why not get one for the red carpet, rather than one that looks like she's going to a court room?
As the story progresses the reader follows Emilia as she saves and during her trip to NYC. We learn her back story, and piece by piece her reason for wanting the dress. In this narrative, author William Norwich (who has a background in fashion) thinks about deep longings and aches of the heart, while also thinking about the role our clothes play in our lives. He also takes the fashion industry to task. Emilia, speaking of her generation, says,"We'd give anything to be accepted in a boardroom, if the fashion industry would only understand that. We don't all want to be sexpots, or cougars, or just covered up in droopy blouses and trousers. There also something alluring, very, very, alluring about a dress that is perfectly correct. But in an effort to make my generation disappear no one sells clothing that empowers us. There's only ridicule, condescension, or dismissal."
In an interview with Women's Wear Daily, Norwich was asked what he hoped readers would take away from the book. He answered: “that being an American grown-up is actually an honorable thing, that balance is OK, that loneliness is inevitable and that underneath the superficial there is a life for all people. And it’s not going to be what you see or what they say. Quiet people are the ones you want to love and know. Quietude is good after all the noise we’ve gone through culturally.”
This could have actually been a 5 star book for me, but a few completely ridiculous plot points knocked it down a notch. (yes, it's a fairy tale of sorts, but it still had to be at least somewhat believable).
Thank you to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for a galley of this book in exchange for an honest review (note, even though I had a galley I listened to the audio, which was quite good).
December 12, 2016
"How people endure the complexities of their lives with faith and cheer, finding their own measure of hope, is one of the constant miracles, and often surprises of life."
Emilia Brown is a drab older widow with a drab little life, a shadow cleaning lady at a beauty shop where she is awarded little respect by the young and self assured stylists. She maintains a decorous routine, avoiding judgement of others and keeps to herself. She owns a little duplex, living in one side and the other brings in modest income. Her tenant is away so the granddaughter, new teacher Alice is staying there and keeping an eye out to report to her grandmother, who worries about the self-effacing woman.
But things change. Mrs. Brown volunteers her help to clear away the belongings of a wealthy and distinguished deceased village dowager, whom she always admired. Tucked on a hangar, the nondescript lady finds "something" about a vintage haute couture Oscar de la Renta black suit so important to her that she is compelled to act out of character, find the means to travel to New York, and buy a brand new one for herself. The classic suit, black dress is the one which has been the choice of First Ladies for thirty years; it is impeccably tailored, chic, lined with silk, made for those with prestige and money. Its cost is staggeringly high.
The dream of the dress, of course, is the impetus for change. Why, we wonder, is there to be change? Why, suddenly, does Mrs. Brown take risks and speak up, make herself visible, bring on enmity and unexpectedly also high approval? Why?
In order to seek out that elegant dress, Mrs. Brown is pulled beyond the world of her house and into the energy of others. Her hope is her fuel, and the others around her are ignited by it. What results is a most fanciful, heartfelt and moving story. We discover "why". Empathy and kindness bloom quite extraordinarily, touching Mrs. Brown and inadvertently, quietly, touching strangers, her newly met friends in profoundly life-changing ways. The ending brought me to a prickling of tears. It was not expected.
My Mrs. Brown honours the women who become invisible, who have been the mothers, the givers, the workers, the wives who have used themselves up. These women tried to bargain with hard lives, soldiered on inconspicuously and feared giving themselves hope. William Norwich has written a feel-good, hug-you-tight tale worthy of every "older woman's" bedside table. I absolutely loved it.
✪✪✪✪✪ Highly recommended for those who have had their share of life's very hard knocks, the empathetic reader, the mature reader wanting a touch of elegance and compelling possibility.
Emilia Brown is a drab older widow with a drab little life, a shadow cleaning lady at a beauty shop where she is awarded little respect by the young and self assured stylists. She maintains a decorous routine, avoiding judgement of others and keeps to herself. She owns a little duplex, living in one side and the other brings in modest income. Her tenant is away so the granddaughter, new teacher Alice is staying there and keeping an eye out to report to her grandmother, who worries about the self-effacing woman.
But things change. Mrs. Brown volunteers her help to clear away the belongings of a wealthy and distinguished deceased village dowager, whom she always admired. Tucked on a hangar, the nondescript lady finds "something" about a vintage haute couture Oscar de la Renta black suit so important to her that she is compelled to act out of character, find the means to travel to New York, and buy a brand new one for herself. The classic suit, black dress is the one which has been the choice of First Ladies for thirty years; it is impeccably tailored, chic, lined with silk, made for those with prestige and money. Its cost is staggeringly high.
The dream of the dress, of course, is the impetus for change. Why, we wonder, is there to be change? Why, suddenly, does Mrs. Brown take risks and speak up, make herself visible, bring on enmity and unexpectedly also high approval? Why?
In order to seek out that elegant dress, Mrs. Brown is pulled beyond the world of her house and into the energy of others. Her hope is her fuel, and the others around her are ignited by it. What results is a most fanciful, heartfelt and moving story. We discover "why". Empathy and kindness bloom quite extraordinarily, touching Mrs. Brown and inadvertently, quietly, touching strangers, her newly met friends in profoundly life-changing ways. The ending brought me to a prickling of tears. It was not expected.
My Mrs. Brown honours the women who become invisible, who have been the mothers, the givers, the workers, the wives who have used themselves up. These women tried to bargain with hard lives, soldiered on inconspicuously and feared giving themselves hope. William Norwich has written a feel-good, hug-you-tight tale worthy of every "older woman's" bedside table. I absolutely loved it.
✪✪✪✪✪ Highly recommended for those who have had their share of life's very hard knocks, the empathetic reader, the mature reader wanting a touch of elegance and compelling possibility.
June 2, 2018
Looking for a quick, lighthearted audiobook just in time for your weekend drives to the beach? While I certainly don’t wish for anyone to get stuck in beach traffic, it may be inevitable…so get your audiobooks ready!
My Mrs. Brown,by William Norwich, was a charming story of a hardworking, simple woman who comes across an Oscar de la Renta dress and is determined to buy one of her own. She wants to work for it, earn it: it/this is very important to her.
The people in her life do not understand how this one frivolous, extravagant purchase could be so important, but support Emilia Brown in her quest to save for it. When you finally find out the reason you will not be able to hold back the tears.
I enjoyed how this story developed. I myself did not understand Mrs. Brown at first, but loved her character that I was rooting for her to reach her goal. At the moment when it will all make sense I felt a sudden urge to hug someone. And, if you don’t know by now I am not a fan of hugs so that should tell you something. 😉
The narrator had a lovely tone and I found it easy to listen along. If you do not like audiobooks I still recommend picking up a copy of this book. I will certainly reread in the future and will be buying a physical copy for myself.
To read my reviews visit:www.saturdaynitereader.com
My Mrs. Brown,by William Norwich, was a charming story of a hardworking, simple woman who comes across an Oscar de la Renta dress and is determined to buy one of her own. She wants to work for it, earn it: it/this is very important to her.
The people in her life do not understand how this one frivolous, extravagant purchase could be so important, but support Emilia Brown in her quest to save for it. When you finally find out the reason you will not be able to hold back the tears.
I enjoyed how this story developed. I myself did not understand Mrs. Brown at first, but loved her character that I was rooting for her to reach her goal. At the moment when it will all make sense I felt a sudden urge to hug someone. And, if you don’t know by now I am not a fan of hugs so that should tell you something. 😉
The narrator had a lovely tone and I found it easy to listen along. If you do not like audiobooks I still recommend picking up a copy of this book. I will certainly reread in the future and will be buying a physical copy for myself.
To read my reviews visit:www.saturdaynitereader.com
March 24, 2018
👗BEST BOOK ALERT 💗
If you haven’t read this book yet, you must add it to your TBR immediately....you HAVE to trust me on this. This little story is the most charming, lovely and poignant book I have read in longer than I can remember and it has officially restored my faith in humanity. I’m sitting here sobbing as I write this, partially because of the story but also because it’s over. It is officially on my favorite books of all time list!
•
NOTE: I think the tears hit so hard because of how the ending is connected so closely to my own family, so I’m not sure if it will evoke the same emotion in everyone ~ it’s not a sad story overall, I promise!
•
Thanks a million to @the_grateful_read for recommending this on the @topshelftext blog a while ago ~ that review is MUCH more thorough than mine is ❤️ (those @s are Instagram!)
If you haven’t read this book yet, you must add it to your TBR immediately....you HAVE to trust me on this. This little story is the most charming, lovely and poignant book I have read in longer than I can remember and it has officially restored my faith in humanity. I’m sitting here sobbing as I write this, partially because of the story but also because it’s over. It is officially on my favorite books of all time list!
•
NOTE: I think the tears hit so hard because of how the ending is connected so closely to my own family, so I’m not sure if it will evoke the same emotion in everyone ~ it’s not a sad story overall, I promise!
•
Thanks a million to @the_grateful_read for recommending this on the @topshelftext blog a while ago ~ that review is MUCH more thorough than mine is ❤️ (those @s are Instagram!)
July 6, 2017
Lovely little book that I'll not soon forget. And oh what a wonderful world it would be if we had more ladies like Ms Brown in it.
March 19, 2019
[3+] A touching "feel good" tale about an older woman's quest - for more than just a dress.
July 24, 2016
My Mrs. Brown is a modern day fairy tale in which a simple, hard-working woman leaves her small world to travel to NYC to purchase an Oscar de la Renta dress that will cost her $7000. She doesn't have the money, but will save and cut back where needed in order to buy this simple black dress that she must have, in which "it's correctness was its allure - suggesting endless possibilities and a certainty of positive outcomes if one wore this dress." To Mrs. Brown, the dress is symbolic of courage, love, and peace - "like her rod and her staff."
4 stars for this sweet little tale.
4 stars for this sweet little tale.
April 7, 2016
3.5 Mrs. Brown is an upstanding citizen, she is old fashioned, a throwback of stalwart personality. A strong work ethic, a keen sense of responsibility, makes do with little and outside of a few treats, she does not indulge. All this changes when she is called upon to help her friend from the thrift shop, go through the clothes of a recently departed society maven, and she falls in lobe with a dress from this woman's closet. It is an Oscar de la Renta and costs about seven thousand dollars, but it is something Mrs. Brown decides she must have.
This is not a book I thought I would end up loving, not the type of book I would normally read, but there is humor, and there are hidden depths, more at stake than is first apparent. The writing itself seems old fashioned, simplistic almost too sweet at times. Keep seeing my Good read friend Irene, gnashing her teeth at the sentimentality. Yet, I fell in love with this character, loved reading about her day in New York City where she is a fish out of water, almost a modern day Cinderella story. Then the end and we find out what this wonderful woman was fighting for, something I did not expect.
So yes, sweet, but oh so likable.
ARC from publisher.
This is not a book I thought I would end up loving, not the type of book I would normally read, but there is humor, and there are hidden depths, more at stake than is first apparent. The writing itself seems old fashioned, simplistic almost too sweet at times. Keep seeing my Good read friend Irene, gnashing her teeth at the sentimentality. Yet, I fell in love with this character, loved reading about her day in New York City where she is a fish out of water, almost a modern day Cinderella story. Then the end and we find out what this wonderful woman was fighting for, something I did not expect.
So yes, sweet, but oh so likable.
ARC from publisher.
December 12, 2018
“If I could have changed the world,” Mrs. Brown said quietly, “I would have stopped all time so you could stay.”
🌟
Mrs. Brown was just what I needed right now; she is a woman of simple pleasures, who is there for anyone who needs anything, and who, one day, dares to want more from life and has the courage to reach for it. Absolutely the sweetest story I’ve read in a long time.
🌟
Mrs. Brown was just what I needed right now; she is a woman of simple pleasures, who is there for anyone who needs anything, and who, one day, dares to want more from life and has the courage to reach for it. Absolutely the sweetest story I’ve read in a long time.
July 14, 2017
Not my thing. Cute cover, awesome lettering inside. But not my thing. Undercooked.
August 25, 2016
The reviews here pretty much parallel my book club's comments. But I just can't bring myself to say this was a "good" book. Many, many flaws, although not hard to read and will concede a number of interesting social issues were raised. I'm must also add I'm slightly offended that a male author (a fashion writer) thinks all the problems this poor sweet old woman had could be solved by obsessing over a really good dress way beyond her means. Is that not a stereotype we women want to shed?
My theory is if for any reason a reader strongly identifies with Mrs. Brown (elderly, over-worked/under-paid, lonely, alcoholic spouse, ++ ), she will rate it highly regardless of the book's actual merits. And I'm pretty sure men aren't reading it.
My theory is if for any reason a reader strongly identifies with Mrs. Brown (elderly, over-worked/under-paid, lonely, alcoholic spouse, ++ ), she will rate it highly regardless of the book's actual merits. And I'm pretty sure men aren't reading it.
August 8, 2017
Mrs Brown may be the cleaning lady at the local beauty shop, but she aspires to be considered graceful and proper in all things. Her model is the late Mrs Groton, a wealthy woman who annually opened her mansion’s gardens for the town’s Rose Festival. When Mrs Brown is called to volunteer to help inventory the contents of the deceased Mrs Groton’s mansion, she is awed, intimidated and ultimately inspired by a lone simple sheath dress with jacket she finds in a closet. She sets a goal to earn the money to buy the Oscar de la Renta classic, just like one that Jackie Kennedy once wore.
This is a lovely, charming story of one woman’s quest, at once modest and outlandish, a goal that is not so that she can impress anyone else, but rather strictly for her own private reason. Mrs Brown’s genuine goodness and politeness serve her well. Despite being the target of mean-girl behavior at work, and some serious setbacks, she perseveres quietly and consistently. A few unlikely helpers also come her way – including an international supermodel and the PR director for Oscar de la Renta. It’s a wonderful fable, and I just love Mrs Brown.
Norwich also has Mrs Groton’s former assistant give Mrs Brown a copy of a book -Mrs. 'Arris Goes to Paris.Well, if I hadn’t already picked up the similarities in Mrs Brown’s story to Paul Gallico’s 1958 novel, that certainly made it clear. But I’m not complaining. I’m glad Norwich gave such a public nod to the previous work.
This is a lovely, charming story of one woman’s quest, at once modest and outlandish, a goal that is not so that she can impress anyone else, but rather strictly for her own private reason. Mrs Brown’s genuine goodness and politeness serve her well. Despite being the target of mean-girl behavior at work, and some serious setbacks, she perseveres quietly and consistently. A few unlikely helpers also come her way – including an international supermodel and the PR director for Oscar de la Renta. It’s a wonderful fable, and I just love Mrs Brown.
Norwich also has Mrs Groton’s former assistant give Mrs Brown a copy of a book -Mrs. 'Arris Goes to Paris.Well, if I hadn’t already picked up the similarities in Mrs Brown’s story to Paul Gallico’s 1958 novel, that certainly made it clear. But I’m not complaining. I’m glad Norwich gave such a public nod to the previous work.
February 12, 2019
2.5 Stars
There was a lot of raw matter to like here--a main character who is just a decent and respectable human being, a more lighthearted (but not *too* fluffy) story, and a solidly happy ending. The thing I had a harder time getting past?
The writing style.
I wondered if this was the author's first attempt at a novel, just because everything was very simplistic, there was a lot of "telling" instead of "showing," and I had a hard time believing some of the events in the story--there just wasn't enough of a build-up, and everything worked out just a bit too neatly.
All in all, if you like a happy story and aren't as picky about your author's writing style, this might be a better pick for you than for me.
There was a lot of raw matter to like here--a main character who is just a decent and respectable human being, a more lighthearted (but not *too* fluffy) story, and a solidly happy ending. The thing I had a harder time getting past?
The writing style.
I wondered if this was the author's first attempt at a novel, just because everything was very simplistic, there was a lot of "telling" instead of "showing," and I had a hard time believing some of the events in the story--there just wasn't enough of a build-up, and everything worked out just a bit too neatly.
All in all, if you like a happy story and aren't as picky about your author's writing style, this might be a better pick for you than for me.
May 31, 2021
A charming, feel-good book! A definite book for adult women, and I mean that in the most respectful sense of the word. A few times when design and fashion is discussed for the 'average' woman, it's lamented that there are no clothes for grown ups. Exactly right.
This is the second book I'm reading in a "fashion" cluster. The first wasOne to Watch.There's been discussion about how these will be the new roaring '20s as we come out of cocooning with sweatpants in covid hiberation and expand into new excesses of travel, dining and fashion.
Here's a new word for the fashionistas--mufti. From the interwebs, "The word originates from the Arabic: Mufti (مفتي) meaning scholar. It has been used by the British Army since 1816 and is thought to derive from the vaguely Eastern-style dressing gowns and tasselled caps worn by off-duty officers in the early 19th century." Who doesn't remember the Monty Python skit in The Meaning of Life where "a tiger bit off my leg"?
I readMrs. 'Arris Goes to Parisin a Reader's Digest condensed book decades ago, and I'm glad Norwich gives a recap. While the premise may be the same, the story itself isn't.
I couldn't find an image of what Mrs. Brown's black dress suit would have looked like, but I found a pattern I remember Mom making several times. Who was excited when you had a sewing machine that had a "zipper foot" and you didn't have to sew zippers in by hand?
This is the second book I'm reading in a "fashion" cluster. The first wasOne to Watch.There's been discussion about how these will be the new roaring '20s as we come out of cocooning with sweatpants in covid hiberation and expand into new excesses of travel, dining and fashion.
Here's a new word for the fashionistas--mufti. From the interwebs, "The word originates from the Arabic: Mufti (مفتي) meaning scholar. It has been used by the British Army since 1816 and is thought to derive from the vaguely Eastern-style dressing gowns and tasselled caps worn by off-duty officers in the early 19th century." Who doesn't remember the Monty Python skit in The Meaning of Life where "a tiger bit off my leg"?
I readMrs. 'Arris Goes to Parisin a Reader's Digest condensed book decades ago, and I'm glad Norwich gives a recap. While the premise may be the same, the story itself isn't.
I couldn't find an image of what Mrs. Brown's black dress suit would have looked like, but I found a pattern I remember Mom making several times. Who was excited when you had a sewing machine that had a "zipper foot" and you didn't have to sew zippers in by hand?
October 28, 2016
Sometimes you pick up a book you have never heard before and wonder if it is worth giving it a try. You take a chance and read it. Sometimes you lose... sometimes you come across a book that will delight you. “My Mrs. Brown” is such a book and I am adding it to my list of favourites. This is the story about a woman who, while inventorying the content of an influential woman in her small town who recently passed away, comes across a beautiful garment by Oscar de la Renta. It is an instant love affair with this dress which will propel Mrs. Brown to do what she can to acquire such treasure. This story is the inspiration of “where you sow kindness, you will reap kindness”. You follow Mrs. Brown through her journey, meet the people who respect her and will help her along the way. You will also discover how noble this crusade is. Short and sweet, this book is beautifully written. This story of dignity and decency should become a classic for future generation to enjoy and live by.
April 15, 2016
Thank you Netgalley. What a wonderful little story. A very charming book with a glorious and beautiful ending. I'm proud to know Mrs. Brown and why she wanted the dress! Just Lovely.
January 17, 2016
This book blew me away. The story description gave me the impression to expect a feel good read seemingly fitting a chic lit genre. This is woefully incorrect; is it a feel good read? Perhaps at times. However, I found the story to have multiple layers to it and ultimately a moving ending that brought me to tears. I found this book to be similar to the main character, Mrs. Brown, quietly dignified, with an appearance that hides a rich, beauty with strong emotional undercurrents. Mrs. Brown's pursuit of the iconic black dress is something every woman can identify with. Haven't we all needed a specific type dress for a specific purpose in our lives? Whether it be prom, wedding, funeral, to feel beautiful, to impress, to feel like a lady, or in the case of Mrs Brown, to have a dress as strong as armor. Mr. Norwich captures the essence of what a dress can do for a woman so eloquently in this book. He does this with respect, dignity, and a quiet reverence for the individual.
What is this book about: Mrs. Brown lives a simple life. She eats simply, dresses simply, works a simple job, and enjoys simple pleasures. She is a true New Englander with a strong industrious attitude and firm control of her emotions. Her life begins to change when she volunteers to catalog items for the local thrift shop from a wealthy lady's estate in town. She has long admired the grace and class of this woman from a distance and nervously is honored to be in the home of this woman. She sees the black dress in the closet and knows she must have one like it in her life. This dress will change things for her. The cost of a black Oscar de la Renta dress is something her job as a cleaner in the local beauty shop cannot afford. Mrs. Brown's graciousness attracts the notice and help of several characters that are in positions to assist her on this quest. In a world where gluttony is mainstream, immediate self gratification, and lack of filters for conversation are all the norm, Mrs. Brown is a refreshing change in the lives of the people she meets. Some are better for it and others let their true nature reveal itself in her light. A school teacher, fashion model, beauty shop owner, and PR assistant all are taken in by the quest for this dress and each has a role to play. In the end, when the true reason for a dress such as the one Mrs. Brown seeks is revealed, you will find yourself moved.
Thank you to Netgalley and Simon&Schuster for allowing me to read this book in exchange for my review. It was a true pleasure of a read and I will be recommending it to others.
June 27, 2016
Ah, Mrs. Brown. You probably didn't notice her as she's quiet and modest and dresses plainly and sews and cleans up to make a small living. She's the kind of person that all the big lives run on, in short, the kind of person who relishes being good and kind and generous, the kind of person who never gets a headline or on the front page.
And so her life goes on, day after day, the object of catty remarks at the beauty shop where she works, yet she continues on, never letting the cruelties of others hurt her. Then she sees the dress, a simple dress of great beauty, of meticulous construction, of fine craftsmanship, a dress that is everything Mrs. Brown wants to be. And it costs thousands and thousands of dollars. And Mrs. Brown is determined that she shall buy it.
You never see a novel about a character like Mrs. Brown and that's the charm of this little novel. Mrs. Brown is an admirable character, and those who look past her drab appearance and menial job, those who really get to know her, those people are amazed to find what a wonderful person she is and are eager to share with her.
And so her life goes on, day after day, the object of catty remarks at the beauty shop where she works, yet she continues on, never letting the cruelties of others hurt her. Then she sees the dress, a simple dress of great beauty, of meticulous construction, of fine craftsmanship, a dress that is everything Mrs. Brown wants to be. And it costs thousands and thousands of dollars. And Mrs. Brown is determined that she shall buy it.
You never see a novel about a character like Mrs. Brown and that's the charm of this little novel. Mrs. Brown is an admirable character, and those who look past her drab appearance and menial job, those who really get to know her, those people are amazed to find what a wonderful person she is and are eager to share with her.
June 25, 2016
I wanted to like this book, I loyally read this book but found it unsatisfying. I understand that this book had the Mrs. Arris vintage book as a hook (and I am familiar with both the book and the movie) but found that it didn't work. Mrs. Brown is portrayed as old although she is still on the early side of 70, and there is an old fashioned air that again does not make sense. I felt as if I was dragged into a time of long ago while the book is set in contemporary time. I didn't get any depth, didn't like or dislike Mrs. Brown just found her lacking in reality. I thought that the opportunities that Mrs. Brown received were contrived, and that her efforts to connect people (a romantic connection) destined to be together although from different circles was also too contrived. I can't place my finger on it, but there was definitely something lacking in this book.
March 23, 2016
What a beautiful story this was. I really connected with Mrs. Brown, what a great character. I know she's one that I won't forget. I had to get out the tissues for happy tears. Then, I had to get them out again for sad tears.
There were so many people who were so mean to Mrs. Brown because they didn't really know her. They just judged her by her looks. Most of them though, really liked her after they got to know her. I smiled throughout her whole trip to New York just about. What a fabulous adventure, one I was so happy she was able to take.
I just fell in love with Mrs. Brown and her story.
Thanks to Simon and Schuster and Net Galley for allowing me the opportunity to spend time with Mrs. Brown.
There were so many people who were so mean to Mrs. Brown because they didn't really know her. They just judged her by her looks. Most of them though, really liked her after they got to know her. I smiled throughout her whole trip to New York just about. What a fabulous adventure, one I was so happy she was able to take.
I just fell in love with Mrs. Brown and her story.
Thanks to Simon and Schuster and Net Galley for allowing me the opportunity to spend time with Mrs. Brown.
February 17, 2022
My Interest
My first thought was, my Mom will love this book. But, I also sort of knew I’d love it too! Mom has the Vogue sewing book and can even tailor a man’s suit. Me? Well, I CAN sew and can make a wearable everyday garment (most women my age did have to learn that in Middle School) but I struggle with it. Mom does it effortlessly–or at least she makes it look that way!
What’s not to love about a hard working lady who wants to dress like a…well… a lady? Even better, a lady the world takes seriously?
The Story
“…a sleeveless black dress and a single button jacket made of the finest quality wool crepe. Its correctness was it’s allure….the richness of the affect of this suit, its elegance and poise, was the work of a master….A garment so regal, so grown up….so exquisitely tailored and, somehow, thoroughly reassuring.”
When the town’s grande dame passes on, beauty shop cleaning lady Mrs. Brown helps inventory her possessions. She finds the perfectly tailored black Oscar de la Renta coat dress and admires its exceptional tailoring. As the late Mrs. Groton’s assistant explains the dress’s significance–worn to lunch with Queen Elizabeth and worn to lunch at the White House, Mrs. Brown is struck by how “right” the dress is. She is tired of women wanting to look like…well, lets not go there! Mrs. Brown dresses in styles that suit her. Wool slacks and a twin set and a neat hair cut are her everyday. She doesn’t have money enough for a huge wardrobe so she sticks to classics that suit her figure (as every woman should). Meanwhile, Mrs. Groton’s assistant gives her a book that belonged to the great lady, a novel by Paul Gallico called Mrs. ‘Arris Goes to Paris. Mrs. Brown has no idea she’s just met the story of her immediate future. Like Mrs. Harris in the Gallico story, Mrs. Brown decides that however long it takes to save for it, she will own that Oscar de la Renta black dress.
My Thoughts
“I want to tell you something about women like Mrs. Brown and myself…living on small fixed incomes, we’d give anything to be accepted in the boardroom if the fashion world only understood that we don’t all want to be sex pots or cougars or just covered up in droopy blouses and trousers. There’s something alluring, very, very alluring, about a dress that is perfectly correct. But in an effort to make my generation disappear, no one sells clothing that empowers us, there is only ridicule, condescension, or dismissal….”
This is a gem of a book! A story of empowerment told with the dignity and grace of the dress itself. Mrs. Brown’s life is that of so many hard working American women. The search for dignity, to be taken seriously, to be seen, heard, and respected. I loved every word. Like Gallico’s Mrs. Harris, Mrs. Brown has a lot to teach those who see themselves as successful and fulfilled. Her adventure is such a fun story, too! Perfect for book clubs–there’s so much to discuss that is both fun and serious.
My Verdict
4.0
Note on the audio version: I have no idea why the performer spoke of Mrs. ‘Grow -ton” -(groe-to rhyme with toe) and not “Groton” like the prep school.
My first thought was, my Mom will love this book. But, I also sort of knew I’d love it too! Mom has the Vogue sewing book and can even tailor a man’s suit. Me? Well, I CAN sew and can make a wearable everyday garment (most women my age did have to learn that in Middle School) but I struggle with it. Mom does it effortlessly–or at least she makes it look that way!
What’s not to love about a hard working lady who wants to dress like a…well… a lady? Even better, a lady the world takes seriously?
The Story
“…a sleeveless black dress and a single button jacket made of the finest quality wool crepe. Its correctness was it’s allure….the richness of the affect of this suit, its elegance and poise, was the work of a master….A garment so regal, so grown up….so exquisitely tailored and, somehow, thoroughly reassuring.”
When the town’s grande dame passes on, beauty shop cleaning lady Mrs. Brown helps inventory her possessions. She finds the perfectly tailored black Oscar de la Renta coat dress and admires its exceptional tailoring. As the late Mrs. Groton’s assistant explains the dress’s significance–worn to lunch with Queen Elizabeth and worn to lunch at the White House, Mrs. Brown is struck by how “right” the dress is. She is tired of women wanting to look like…well, lets not go there! Mrs. Brown dresses in styles that suit her. Wool slacks and a twin set and a neat hair cut are her everyday. She doesn’t have money enough for a huge wardrobe so she sticks to classics that suit her figure (as every woman should). Meanwhile, Mrs. Groton’s assistant gives her a book that belonged to the great lady, a novel by Paul Gallico called Mrs. ‘Arris Goes to Paris. Mrs. Brown has no idea she’s just met the story of her immediate future. Like Mrs. Harris in the Gallico story, Mrs. Brown decides that however long it takes to save for it, she will own that Oscar de la Renta black dress.
My Thoughts
“I want to tell you something about women like Mrs. Brown and myself…living on small fixed incomes, we’d give anything to be accepted in the boardroom if the fashion world only understood that we don’t all want to be sex pots or cougars or just covered up in droopy blouses and trousers. There’s something alluring, very, very alluring, about a dress that is perfectly correct. But in an effort to make my generation disappear, no one sells clothing that empowers us, there is only ridicule, condescension, or dismissal….”
This is a gem of a book! A story of empowerment told with the dignity and grace of the dress itself. Mrs. Brown’s life is that of so many hard working American women. The search for dignity, to be taken seriously, to be seen, heard, and respected. I loved every word. Like Gallico’s Mrs. Harris, Mrs. Brown has a lot to teach those who see themselves as successful and fulfilled. Her adventure is such a fun story, too! Perfect for book clubs–there’s so much to discuss that is both fun and serious.
My Verdict
4.0
Note on the audio version: I have no idea why the performer spoke of Mrs. ‘Grow -ton” -(groe-to rhyme with toe) and not “Groton” like the prep school.
November 27, 2017
Loved this book. It's a fast read, entertaining, and insightful. I loved the class of the main character, and this book will become one of my all-time favorites. I highly recommend it.
March 7, 2016
What a fantastic story! Emilia Brown is one of my favorite characters that I have encountered in literature. Mrs. Brown is a hardworking, kind woman who has not lived an easy life. While working an extra job to supplement her income, she develops an interest in a simple, classic black Oscar de la Renta suit. Her decision to save enough money to acquire this suit sets off a chain of events that made me both laugh and cry. Every lucky person who encounters Mrs. Brown is the better for it, and she leaves an impression that will not soon be forgotten. She proves that the power and impact of a kind and generous person is long lasting. I loved this book and have not stopped thinking about it since I finished it.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this gem in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this gem in exchange for an honest review.
March 20, 2018
A story to pull at your heartstrings.
This was BOTM for a book club, and I thought it was a very sweet story. You can't help but love Mrs. Brown. She's such a kind woman who has a quiet sort of grace to her. Her desire to work hard, along with her calm dignity, rewards her with more genuine friendships and good fortune. This whole story is just a great reminder of how even the simplest acts of kindness can be rewarding just by themselves.
To top it off, the ending made me cry. And if a book can make me so emotional, then it's guaranteed to be a good story.
I would say that this would make a great vacation read. It's short, reads fairly fast, and it makes you smile. Excellent to take with you on a trip.
This was BOTM for a book club, and I thought it was a very sweet story. You can't help but love Mrs. Brown. She's such a kind woman who has a quiet sort of grace to her. Her desire to work hard, along with her calm dignity, rewards her with more genuine friendships and good fortune. This whole story is just a great reminder of how even the simplest acts of kindness can be rewarding just by themselves.
To top it off, the ending made me cry. And if a book can make me so emotional, then it's guaranteed to be a good story.
I would say that this would make a great vacation read. It's short, reads fairly fast, and it makes you smile. Excellent to take with you on a trip.
December 5, 2017
Elegant cream puff of a book. I just loved it. It was a pretty light read with some meaningful substance. I thought the ending was beautifully done.
Read
September 10, 2018Abandoned before I even started. Have lost interest in the premise of the book. Plus I believe it’s past due at the library and also I have been wanting to read more fantasy lately.
November 30, 2018
I really enjoyed this book. Picked it up to just start it and didn’t put it down. The sweetness, kindness, and decency of the main character makes me waver on the 4 stars - probably more of a 5-star story for me.
August 7, 2020
"My Mrs Brown" - written by William Norwich and published in 2016 by Simon & Schuster. Emilia Brown of Rhode Island falls in love with a dress while inventorying the household contents of a recently departed elderly socialite. Sixtyish Mrs Brown lives frugally and cleans up in the local hair salon, but this little black number, an Oscar de la Renta original worth thousands, calls to her and she is determined to purchase her own original. "If she was a scent, she was tea with honey, but if she was a color, she was a study in gray." I enjoyed this quiet, sweet story, something of an homage to the New York City fashion industry, but also to unassuming, but determined women everywhere. Go Mrs Brown!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 462 reviews