Carol’s television show was a constant companion as I was growing up; and, viewing pieces of those episodes at any time can still make me laugh.  Her cast of characters and her co-stars all became family friends; I still think of them fondly when I recall evenings that my family spent watching her television show.  Carol is more than an entertainer…she is a genuine person and that comes across in her performances, as well as her writing.   This book is a collection of random thoughts and experiences through the years and makes for a nice, relaxing time while reading.  I especially enjoyed being a fly on the wall when Carol writes of her time with Lucille Ball.  Lucy was a trailblazer and also a big part of my growing up years so it is wonderful to read of their relationship.  Both women are legends who had to be strong and stand out in their chosen profession…one previously dominated by men.

The book is a great way to have a window into some of her relationships and experiences with both famous and non-famous people, as she relates these stories.  There is humor and humanity on every page as well as sentimental reflection scattered throughout.  You won’t be wasting your time if you want to get to know Ms. Carol Burnett a little better; just spend a little time reading through, This Time Together, Laughter and Reflection.

This book was published in 2010 by Crown Publishing Group, a division of Random House Inc.  You can find their website here:  www.crownpublishing.com   You are able to purchase this book there.

        Amy Thomas, the main character, should be awarded a medal of bravery for even CONSIDERING bringing a baby into her web of relationships.   Once you meet some of the interesting characters in Amy’s and her husband’s life, you will understand completely.

        Her friends, some  who are very child phobic; and, some who are very supportive…are quick to offer up an opinion.  Some of those opinions are helpful… some are just judgemental.   There is the derisive laughter that flows, when Amy announces (after prenatal birthing classes) her intention to do a natural childbirth. 

        This announcement is met with reminders of Amy’s total inability to tolerate pain.  Amy of course, dismisses these reminders by way of comments such as, ”natural childbirth is so totally better for both her and the baby…never mind the pain aspect”!  You get the idea….much laughter involved.

        The journey is eye opening, for Amy, such as news that it takes  10 months of pregnancy(shocking, I know, this pregnancy math) to bring forth a desired child.    The journey is even contagious, in some cases.  In others …Amy’s pregnancy acts almost as if it is child repellant.  LOL

       This book is a little salty/earthy/crude at times in the area of  language, for some people.   But, at it’s best…it is very entertaining for anyone who dares to take on the challenge of  childbirth.  There is a little something for everyone.

       The author, who conceived this book, is Laura Wolf.  This is her second novel.  It was published by Bantam Dell and was copyrighted in 2003.  The cover art, which is equally adorable was done by Jane Boyle Hallman.  The book design by Lynn Newmark. 

        The book is peppered through-out with Things To Do Lists.  They are highly entertaining as well.  I think anyone considering adding a child to their nest will enjoy this book.  At the very least, it should be required reading; as one of the lists is, Things They Never Tell You About Pregnancy!