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Not Your Shoe Size: A Novel About Acting Your Age
Julia and Colette are life-long best friends who couldn’t age more differently. Julia is a goody-two-shoes who embraces her gray hair, wrinkles, and geriatric sneakers. Colette is as tough as old boots and relentlessly chases after the elusive fountain of youth wearing stilettos. Growing up and growing old together, they clash, decade by decade, starting when they're ten and are forced to write their own obituaries for homework. Their assignment? Live to 100.
Despite being at odds on whether to embrace their age or defy it, they journey through life competing to see who reaches the finish line not first, but best. Their fierce loyalty, endearing friendship, and shared experiences—from puberty to menopause—are challenged by the ups and downs of life. And the older they get, the more they realize it just might be the other woman who's learned the secret to aging well in an ageist society.
Not Your Shoe Size is a coming-of-age story told through a series of witty and poignant vignettes that will strike at the osteoporotic funny bone of all women who are trying to figure out how to bloom in every stage of life.
Despite being at odds on whether to embrace their age or defy it, they journey through life competing to see who reaches the finish line not first, but best. Their fierce loyalty, endearing friendship, and shared experiences—from puberty to menopause—are challenged by the ups and downs of life. And the older they get, the more they realize it just might be the other woman who's learned the secret to aging well in an ageist society.
Not Your Shoe Size is a coming-of-age story told through a series of witty and poignant vignettes that will strike at the osteoporotic funny bone of all women who are trying to figure out how to bloom in every stage of life.
- GenresFiction
281 pages, Paperback
Published August 11, 2023
15 people are currently reading
112 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer DiVita
1 book6 followersJennifer DiVita is an influencer in aging well. She works for AARP and is a TV talk show host, writer, and sought-after speaker. She was named one of the 50 Most Influential Women in W. Michigan and uses her voice to share the upside of going down over the hill.
Her expertise (plus her mid-life gaffes and extensive shoe collection) inspired her to write Not Your Shoe Size to encourage women that life is not just about surviving the later years but thriving in them.
Her expertise (plus her mid-life gaffes and extensive shoe collection) inspired her to write Not Your Shoe Size to encourage women that life is not just about surviving the later years but thriving in them.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
August 15, 2023
Ugh, where do I even start?
So, this book had some nice inspiring quotes. Those were great. Then there were the abhorrent things that were randomly sprinkled throughout this book that I did not want to see, hear or think at all. Seriously, the characters had no filter or shame whatsover!
And after awhile, I really couldn't stand how the elderly were referred to as old this that and the other by one character. In her desire to never age, she often brutally disrespected those who you should learn the most from.
No one is perfect, but I'd far rather learn from the mistakes of others than to stumble through them myself if it can be avoided.
The cover was quite pretty, but sad to say, I can't recommend this book due to the sexual content it contained. Just saying, I don't do smut in the books I read.
I recieved a complimentary e-book from the publisher and author theough Netgalley as part of a launch team. I was not required to write a positive review and the thoughts and beliefs above are my own.
So, this book had some nice inspiring quotes. Those were great. Then there were the abhorrent things that were randomly sprinkled throughout this book that I did not want to see, hear or think at all. Seriously, the characters had no filter or shame whatsover!
And after awhile, I really couldn't stand how the elderly were referred to as old this that and the other by one character. In her desire to never age, she often brutally disrespected those who you should learn the most from.
No one is perfect, but I'd far rather learn from the mistakes of others than to stumble through them myself if it can be avoided.
The cover was quite pretty, but sad to say, I can't recommend this book due to the sexual content it contained. Just saying, I don't do smut in the books I read.
I recieved a complimentary e-book from the publisher and author theough Netgalley as part of a launch team. I was not required to write a positive review and the thoughts and beliefs above are my own.
August 8, 2023
This book had me totally fooled at first as it started with the friendship between Julia and Colette when they were young girls. Thus, I assumed that it would be a book for young adults. Nope! Not so fast! The book progresses quickly through young adulthood, middle age, and ultimately old age. All of the stages of life are well represented and treated with humor as well as a sense of poignancy that was touching and sensitive. Colette is the playful one, the one who doesn’t like to follow rules and vows never to go into a nursing home. Julia is practical, works hard and follows her head instead of her heart. Both of them learn how to navigate the curves that life throws them and in doing so, they teach the reader to cherish life and all it may bring. The plot is multi-layered in that the two main characters are so different and each has a unique perspective on how to approach challenges. The book is remarkably eye-opening and brilliantly written with thought-provoking events in each character’s life. I really enjoyed the author’s wit and the way the characters were thoroughly developed. Both women were dynamic and relatable, but I’m Team Julia just because that’s the one with whom I identified the most. There were some stereotypes portrayed but nothing unexpected or surprising and for the most part, the details seemed authentic and heartfelt. This book is a sensitive exploration about friendship and growing old. It would make a wonderful book to add to your book club list because it is filled with topics that should be discussed openly and fearlessly, particularly as you age. The two women never lost their sense of self and courageously faced the future, no matter what happened to them. I applaud the author for tackling a difficult topic and making it fun to read. I laughed aloud during some parts, cried during others and enjoyed my visit with Colette and Julia. This is a memorable and compelling story that should be read and enjoyed by women everywhere, no matter which stage of life you find yourself in now.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author as a member of her launch team. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author as a member of her launch team. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
August 5, 2023
The publisher’s description of Not Your Shoe Size made me want to read this book.
’Julia and Colette are life-long best friends who couldn’t age more differently. Julia is a goody-two-shoes who embraces her gray hair, wrinkles, and geriatric sneakers. Colette is as tough as old boots and relentlessly chases after the elusive fountain of youth wearing stilettos. Growing up and growing old together, they clash, decade by decade, starting when they're ten and are forced to write their own obituaries for homework. Their assignment? Live to 100.”
I was thrilled to receive the ARC. However, the formatting is horrific and I cannot read and review the book. I’m pretty good with unusual formatting in proofs but this? “Out I had homework to Ynish, which required asking gross Cuestions…” or “#n our Yrst day, I joined right in. 6or me, it was entertainment.” So that’s it. I reported it to NetGalley but nothing has changed. Jennifer DiVita, I’m sorry. I think you wrote a funny book. 1 star. I tried.
Thank you to NetGalley,
’Julia and Colette are life-long best friends who couldn’t age more differently. Julia is a goody-two-shoes who embraces her gray hair, wrinkles, and geriatric sneakers. Colette is as tough as old boots and relentlessly chases after the elusive fountain of youth wearing stilettos. Growing up and growing old together, they clash, decade by decade, starting when they're ten and are forced to write their own obituaries for homework. Their assignment? Live to 100.”
I was thrilled to receive the ARC. However, the formatting is horrific and I cannot read and review the book. I’m pretty good with unusual formatting in proofs but this? “Out I had homework to Ynish, which required asking gross Cuestions…” or “#n our Yrst day, I joined right in. 6or me, it was entertainment.” So that’s it. I reported it to NetGalley but nothing has changed. Jennifer DiVita, I’m sorry. I think you wrote a funny book. 1 star. I tried.
Thank you to NetGalley,
January 20, 2025
The story of Julia and Collette who meet at 10 and whose friendship lasts until they're 100. Julia accepts aging, and Colette fights it. Neither of the characters are developed enough to care about.
July 20, 2023
As a professional in the world of aging, I loved the premise of this book. Two women, friends from childhood, stick together through every decade of life, up to age 100, experiencing all the ups and downs of aging. Julia and Colette balanced each other well, and their love for each other shone through.
There were some nice moments in this book, but I think the author tried to cover too much ground and wasn’t able to develop anything with much depth. Several events seemed to come out of nowhere. I found myself wishing some events and relationships had been developed more fully.
This novel is a bit on the preachy side, and the dialogue often seems like the characters are reading off a brochure or aging organization website. This is especially true for Julia in the first part of the book and both protagonists later in the book. On the flip side, at times Colette is so blatantly ageist, I was cringing to read her sections.
The other thing that was odd was how this novel isn’t really grounded in real time. Julia gets a gerontology degree in her 20s, which places them in their 20s in the 1970s at the earliest. That means the book is ending sometime in the 2050s? Or maybe none of this was considered? It’s hard to tell.
I did find this to be a quick read with relatable characters. If you’re interested in aging and want to learn some stats while reading a novel, this is for you.
Thank you to BooksGoSocial and NetGalley for the ARC given in exchange for an honest review.
There were some nice moments in this book, but I think the author tried to cover too much ground and wasn’t able to develop anything with much depth. Several events seemed to come out of nowhere. I found myself wishing some events and relationships had been developed more fully.
This novel is a bit on the preachy side, and the dialogue often seems like the characters are reading off a brochure or aging organization website. This is especially true for Julia in the first part of the book and both protagonists later in the book. On the flip side, at times Colette is so blatantly ageist, I was cringing to read her sections.
The other thing that was odd was how this novel isn’t really grounded in real time. Julia gets a gerontology degree in her 20s, which places them in their 20s in the 1970s at the earliest. That means the book is ending sometime in the 2050s? Or maybe none of this was considered? It’s hard to tell.
I did find this to be a quick read with relatable characters. If you’re interested in aging and want to learn some stats while reading a novel, this is for you.
Thank you to BooksGoSocial and NetGalley for the ARC given in exchange for an honest review.
November 18, 2023
This details a lifelong friendship between 2 women highlighting each decade of their lives. The 2 friends are quite different, but the friendship remains intact in good times and bad times. This mirrors life and was very relatable. I did find it a little too long in some sections that could have been more succinct.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley which has not affected my review.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley which has not affected my review.
September 11, 2023
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I honestly wasn't sure what to expect from Not Your Shoe Size from Jennifer DiVita but I am very glad that I added it to my be read list. The cover caught my eye along with the title.
Not Your Shoe Size is about two best friends who are alike but also not alike in so many ways but that doesn't matter because their friendship is key to both of them all throughout their lives. They even share the same birthday and try to celebrate it together each year although that doesn't always happen. From childhood to college years, marriages, divorces, deaths and so much more, their friendship stays solid even with a few hiccups here and there. As each chapter progressed, so did their ages and as I was nearing the end, I was worried how it would end, on a happy or a good note? (spoiler, good note). While some people may be offended how one of the characters sees her elders as, the other character tries to remind her there is so much more to them as just old people. It's unfortunately how a lot of people see them and it's a shame more people don't have someone in their lives to help them focus on the good parts of our lives and how to see others.
While the beginning felt very light, just like life, there was some hard parts to read. As we get older, we lose people close to us and as a daughter and a granddaughter who has lost all of her grandparents and both parents earlier than most people do, it was easy to identify the pain each character went through during that loss. The same goes for dementia and Alzheimer's which also runs in my family. It's a fear of the unknown and will that happen to me that you wonder and hope doesn't happen.
So much was shared in their lives in one book that I almost wished it was a series of books for us to explore and know the characters even better. We get a snippet of this and that here and there as I craved more but wasn't disappointed in it at all. Tears were cried during the harder parts because of life events I have also experienced and to me that is excellent writing to get a reader to identify with the feeling Jennifer put behind that portion. I recommend this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Books Go Social for the ARC.
I honestly wasn't sure what to expect from Not Your Shoe Size from Jennifer DiVita but I am very glad that I added it to my be read list. The cover caught my eye along with the title.
Not Your Shoe Size is about two best friends who are alike but also not alike in so many ways but that doesn't matter because their friendship is key to both of them all throughout their lives. They even share the same birthday and try to celebrate it together each year although that doesn't always happen. From childhood to college years, marriages, divorces, deaths and so much more, their friendship stays solid even with a few hiccups here and there. As each chapter progressed, so did their ages and as I was nearing the end, I was worried how it would end, on a happy or a good note? (spoiler, good note). While some people may be offended how one of the characters sees her elders as, the other character tries to remind her there is so much more to them as just old people. It's unfortunately how a lot of people see them and it's a shame more people don't have someone in their lives to help them focus on the good parts of our lives and how to see others.
While the beginning felt very light, just like life, there was some hard parts to read. As we get older, we lose people close to us and as a daughter and a granddaughter who has lost all of her grandparents and both parents earlier than most people do, it was easy to identify the pain each character went through during that loss. The same goes for dementia and Alzheimer's which also runs in my family. It's a fear of the unknown and will that happen to me that you wonder and hope doesn't happen.
So much was shared in their lives in one book that I almost wished it was a series of books for us to explore and know the characters even better. We get a snippet of this and that here and there as I craved more but wasn't disappointed in it at all. Tears were cried during the harder parts because of life events I have also experienced and to me that is excellent writing to get a reader to identify with the feeling Jennifer put behind that portion. I recommend this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Books Go Social for the ARC.
October 25, 2023
Jennifer DiVita's "Not Your Shoe Size" is a tour de force in the realm of friendship and aging, a masterful exploration that not only captivates but also celebrates the complexities of growing older with grace and authenticity.
The story unfolds through the endearing friendship of Julia and Colette, lifelong companions who tread distinct paths when it comes to the aging process. Julia's embrace of her silvered hair, laugh lines, and sensible footwear is a testament to her wisdom, while Colette's relentless pursuit of perpetual youth in stilettos exemplifies a fiery spirit.
Their journey, commencing in childhood as they face the unusual task of crafting their own obituaries, paves the way for a lifelong competition. This is a race not for the first to cross the finish line, but a spirited quest to navigate the passage of time with an elegance that defies societal norms. Through thick and thin, their loyalty and shared experiences, from the awkwardness of puberty to the challenges of menopause, create a tapestry of experiences.
As the years advance, DiVita masterfully unveils a profound revelation: perhaps, in an ageist world, the other woman holds the key to the secret of aging with unparalleled wisdom. "Not Your Shoe Size" weaves a poignant narrative, a testament to the beauty of growing older while retaining one's unique essence. DiVita's storytelling, rich in humor and heart, offers a profound reflection on the journey of embracing each life stage, making it a must-read for those who cherish the vibrancy of friendship and the wisdom that comes with time.
The story unfolds through the endearing friendship of Julia and Colette, lifelong companions who tread distinct paths when it comes to the aging process. Julia's embrace of her silvered hair, laugh lines, and sensible footwear is a testament to her wisdom, while Colette's relentless pursuit of perpetual youth in stilettos exemplifies a fiery spirit.
Their journey, commencing in childhood as they face the unusual task of crafting their own obituaries, paves the way for a lifelong competition. This is a race not for the first to cross the finish line, but a spirited quest to navigate the passage of time with an elegance that defies societal norms. Through thick and thin, their loyalty and shared experiences, from the awkwardness of puberty to the challenges of menopause, create a tapestry of experiences.
As the years advance, DiVita masterfully unveils a profound revelation: perhaps, in an ageist world, the other woman holds the key to the secret of aging with unparalleled wisdom. "Not Your Shoe Size" weaves a poignant narrative, a testament to the beauty of growing older while retaining one's unique essence. DiVita's storytelling, rich in humor and heart, offers a profound reflection on the journey of embracing each life stage, making it a must-read for those who cherish the vibrancy of friendship and the wisdom that comes with time.
July 18, 2023
Not Your Shoe Size by Jennifer DiVita is about a life-long friendship (90 years!) between Julia and Collette. Their lives and friendship are played out in snippets that had me laughing out loud at certain points, and then crying in other spots.
Ms. DiVita’s characters drew me in and made me want to be their friend, as it was so easy to relate to each of their personalities. I’ve used the phrase “Act your age, not your shoe size” numerous times and that just made me relate to them more. We went through both the good times and the bad times with Julia and Collette and every experience and issue made them closer.
As a woman in her mid-fifties, I can absolutely understand how life-long friendships are crucial and this book made me realize how blessed I am to have this type of friendship with friends from my own childhood that are still in my life. (Side note: I’m buying them this book when it comes out and hugging the heck out of them all the next time we get together.)
This novel didn’t feel like fiction, but as if I were reading a true life story of friendship. That’s amazing.
I was given this book as an ARC by NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Ms. DiVita’s characters drew me in and made me want to be their friend, as it was so easy to relate to each of their personalities. I’ve used the phrase “Act your age, not your shoe size” numerous times and that just made me relate to them more. We went through both the good times and the bad times with Julia and Collette and every experience and issue made them closer.
As a woman in her mid-fifties, I can absolutely understand how life-long friendships are crucial and this book made me realize how blessed I am to have this type of friendship with friends from my own childhood that are still in my life. (Side note: I’m buying them this book when it comes out and hugging the heck out of them all the next time we get together.)
This novel didn’t feel like fiction, but as if I were reading a true life story of friendship. That’s amazing.
I was given this book as an ARC by NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.
August 7, 2023
Review of Not Your Shoe Size
By Jennifer DiVita
This book is a fun read. The story follows two women from kindergarten through their life and friendship, marriages, divorce, and family drama. As a fifty-something myself, I’ve lived through a lot of the same life milestones as the main characters. I can say that I connected more with Julia at first and that Collette, was like a friend of a friend that I put up with because of that connection. Until the later years in her life. Then I connected with Collette, and truly appreciated her spunk, humility, and her passion. It was amazing to watch Collette grow up and become a real, true, honest person with the other people in her life. And a true, true friend to Julia. The story is touching, funny, and resonated with me for a lot of reasons. I’ve always heard that in life, we have friends for a reason, a season, or a lifetime. Julia and Collette’s story is truly the story of a lifetime of friendship and highlights all the seasons that a friendship goes through. I received this book from the publisher and was not required to leave a review. My opinion is my own.
By Jennifer DiVita
This book is a fun read. The story follows two women from kindergarten through their life and friendship, marriages, divorce, and family drama. As a fifty-something myself, I’ve lived through a lot of the same life milestones as the main characters. I can say that I connected more with Julia at first and that Collette, was like a friend of a friend that I put up with because of that connection. Until the later years in her life. Then I connected with Collette, and truly appreciated her spunk, humility, and her passion. It was amazing to watch Collette grow up and become a real, true, honest person with the other people in her life. And a true, true friend to Julia. The story is touching, funny, and resonated with me for a lot of reasons. I’ve always heard that in life, we have friends for a reason, a season, or a lifetime. Julia and Collette’s story is truly the story of a lifetime of friendship and highlights all the seasons that a friendship goes through. I received this book from the publisher and was not required to leave a review. My opinion is my own.
July 14, 2023
This is a book about two lifelong best friends: Colette and Julia. They are best friends since childhood and we follow their lives until they both reach 100. We get glimpses of their lives at various ages, told from their point of view.
I liked the concept of the book but I'm sorry to say I didn't enjoy it as much as I thought I would. For one I didn't like that we got spotlights of things that are important in their lives and then those things are barely mentioned again. Also when those two woman were 100 years now, they would have been born in the 1920s and the book gives the impression that Julia and Colette were definitely born later (they drive cars at a very young age, go to highschool and attend college and of course both have a job throughout their lives) - it just doesn't feel like the life of a person born in the 1920s.
I still liked the concept of lifelong friendship the book described but the story just didn't wow me.
I received an ARC of this book via Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I liked the concept of the book but I'm sorry to say I didn't enjoy it as much as I thought I would. For one I didn't like that we got spotlights of things that are important in their lives and then those things are barely mentioned again. Also when those two woman were 100 years now, they would have been born in the 1920s and the book gives the impression that Julia and Colette were definitely born later (they drive cars at a very young age, go to highschool and attend college and of course both have a job throughout their lives) - it just doesn't feel like the life of a person born in the 1920s.
I still liked the concept of lifelong friendship the book described but the story just didn't wow me.
I received an ARC of this book via Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 23, 2023
I won this book in a contest and was excited but it quickly become obvious I am not the demographic for this book. And become more apparent when I read the other reviews for this book on this site.
Having said that, I did read the book and while I know readers are supposed to suspend disbelief, there were things I could not. The first was the timeline. So if the women promise to live to be 100 and this year is 2023 then they were born in 1923? Collette wears pants to school? One scene mentioned telling a grandmother something and then the next day reading a letter to the class from the grandmother who lives in another state? And both girls were encouraged to attend college and one majored in gerontology? No world wars or Vietnam mentioned so did they come of age in the early 70’s? No 9/11? A daughter may or may not be married to the doctor who she has a child with?
And the ageist comments that one character continues to make throughout the book.
Hoping someone who takes this book from the Free Little Library I donated it to will enjoy it.
Having said that, I did read the book and while I know readers are supposed to suspend disbelief, there were things I could not. The first was the timeline. So if the women promise to live to be 100 and this year is 2023 then they were born in 1923? Collette wears pants to school? One scene mentioned telling a grandmother something and then the next day reading a letter to the class from the grandmother who lives in another state? And both girls were encouraged to attend college and one majored in gerontology? No world wars or Vietnam mentioned so did they come of age in the early 70’s? No 9/11? A daughter may or may not be married to the doctor who she has a child with?
And the ageist comments that one character continues to make throughout the book.
Hoping someone who takes this book from the Free Little Library I donated it to will enjoy it.
July 18, 2023
Book Review 📚
Not Your Shoe Size by Jennifer DeVita - 4/5 ⭐
As with all books I read, I was sold by the cover. The title gave me an inclination to what I was expecting but I couldn't of been more wrong.
Not Your Shoe Size is a beautiful story about 2 lifelong best friends, Colette and Julia. We follow their story and friendship all the way up to when they reach 100. They both have a POV which really shows you the differences and similarities to their lives.
DeVita truly captured the meaning of friendship. Not only the happy and amazing moments, but the heartache and sad moments too. There are moments where you will need tissues. The entire thing feels as though this was all "true life" and the two women got together and tell their story. Amazing.
Thank you to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for allowing me to read this ARC - this is an HONEST review from my own personal opinion.
Not Your Shoe Size by Jennifer DeVita - 4/5 ⭐
As with all books I read, I was sold by the cover. The title gave me an inclination to what I was expecting but I couldn't of been more wrong.
Not Your Shoe Size is a beautiful story about 2 lifelong best friends, Colette and Julia. We follow their story and friendship all the way up to when they reach 100. They both have a POV which really shows you the differences and similarities to their lives.
DeVita truly captured the meaning of friendship. Not only the happy and amazing moments, but the heartache and sad moments too. There are moments where you will need tissues. The entire thing feels as though this was all "true life" and the two women got together and tell their story. Amazing.
Thank you to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for allowing me to read this ARC - this is an HONEST review from my own personal opinion.
September 16, 2023
Julia and Collette are life-long friends whose story shared with us begin when the girls are in fourth grade. Opposites even back then, they attracted instead of repelled. They saw each other through teen years, college years, marriage, children, divorce, death, and their own twilight years.
The chronicling of each decade of the two women's life was humorous, heart-warming and wrenching at the same time. As a middle-ager, I felt this book had such an impact as I compared my life, thoughts and emotions with their present and past years. So much was relatable as to world and life views as you age. The hard part in reading this book is recognizing the accuracies of mindsets and thought processes from where you are and realizing you are getting a vicarious look at where you are heading through Julia's and Collette's lives. Aging is inevitable and time relentlessly marches on; DiVita did a brilliant job with this story.
The chronicling of each decade of the two women's life was humorous, heart-warming and wrenching at the same time. As a middle-ager, I felt this book had such an impact as I compared my life, thoughts and emotions with their present and past years. So much was relatable as to world and life views as you age. The hard part in reading this book is recognizing the accuracies of mindsets and thought processes from where you are and realizing you are getting a vicarious look at where you are heading through Julia's and Collette's lives. Aging is inevitable and time relentlessly marches on; DiVita did a brilliant job with this story.
July 2, 2023
Colette and Julia are more than best friends, they have know each other forever, at least from age 10, and we end the book with them entering 100 years.
We follow these BFF's through the years, and with times of excitement and joy, and times of despair, and through out these two are there for each other.
Some of the happenings had me laughing out loud, and these two had a saying for each other, "Act your age, chicha, not your shoe size!" This saying applied more and more throughout the years, and we are there through it all.
We learn a lot about these women, and in the end I wanted to staying with them, but all things do come to and end, and yes, I loved working through their lives!
I received this book this book through Hummingbird Book House, and was not required to give a positive review.
We follow these BFF's through the years, and with times of excitement and joy, and times of despair, and through out these two are there for each other.
Some of the happenings had me laughing out loud, and these two had a saying for each other, "Act your age, chicha, not your shoe size!" This saying applied more and more throughout the years, and we are there through it all.
We learn a lot about these women, and in the end I wanted to staying with them, but all things do come to and end, and yes, I loved working through their lives!
I received this book this book through Hummingbird Book House, and was not required to give a positive review.
August 5, 2023
I requested to read “Not Your Shoe Size” because both the title and premise were intriguing. I recently lost my closest friend whom I thought I’d grow old with so I was anxious to read a story about friendship.
Julia and Colette met when they were young girls. Yet, the story takes them through their adulthood, into middle age, and finally, their senior years. Because the book takes them through such a large span of time, I felt as if the reader was yanked through certain moments versus giving us the chance to enjoy who these characters were. I also felt the writer focused too much on hitting high points without giving the reader a chance to savor the friendship. Overall, I found this to be a good, but not great, story.
Three stars.
I received a copy of this book through Netgalley. My thanks also to the publisher and the author.
Julia and Colette met when they were young girls. Yet, the story takes them through their adulthood, into middle age, and finally, their senior years. Because the book takes them through such a large span of time, I felt as if the reader was yanked through certain moments versus giving us the chance to enjoy who these characters were. I also felt the writer focused too much on hitting high points without giving the reader a chance to savor the friendship. Overall, I found this to be a good, but not great, story.
Three stars.
I received a copy of this book through Netgalley. My thanks also to the publisher and the author.
June 24, 2024
I absolutely loved this book. It got me laughing at parts, and (I won't say I cried), but my eyes did get wet on several ocassions.
The book takes us through the lives of Julia and Colette, two friends who shared their birthdays. It starts when they are 10, and it spans till their 100th birthday.
It's not a detailed biography of each character. Instead, they tell us bits and parts of different staged in their lives, and let us fill in the blanks of how life was inbetween.
I mostly appreciated how each of them had to reinvent herself as time went by and they experienced different things in life, from their first period to their last one, from boyfriends, husbands, kids, grandkids, great grandkids, career changes, even pets...
Thanks NtGalley and the author for allowing me to read this ARC.
The book takes us through the lives of Julia and Colette, two friends who shared their birthdays. It starts when they are 10, and it spans till their 100th birthday.
It's not a detailed biography of each character. Instead, they tell us bits and parts of different staged in their lives, and let us fill in the blanks of how life was inbetween.
I mostly appreciated how each of them had to reinvent herself as time went by and they experienced different things in life, from their first period to their last one, from boyfriends, husbands, kids, grandkids, great grandkids, career changes, even pets...
Thanks NtGalley and the author for allowing me to read this ARC.
August 7, 2023
I cannot remember another book in my seventy-one years when I’ve she more tears. Either I doubled over laughing or kept my hand over my mouth to keep from sobbing from a broken heart. DiVita has created each of her characters to be relatable and likable, even the antagonist has moments. Living through the lives of these women caused me to give thanks for having an unconditionally loving girlfriend relationship myself. Often while reading this my husband would look at me with concern. “What’s wrong? Why are you crying?” DiVita touches all the emotions, sweet, angry, sad, funny, heartbroken. Such a delightful and touching story. Definitely a must read.
I was given an advanced copy of this book to read and these opinions are my own.
I was given an advanced copy of this book to read and these opinions are my own.
August 14, 2023
This is my first book by this author which I enjoyed from beginning to end. It is a cute story about coming into your own throughout different stages of life. I enjoyed how the author used details to make the story pop and just come to life. I felt that I was part of the story from the beginning. These are strong, relateable characters that will make you laugh and pull at your heart. I enjoyed watching their growth throughout the story as well. This is a fast paced story that you don't want to miss. A story that is engaging, hard to put down and just a great story to read. I enjoyed reading this book and look forward to seeing what is next for this author. I hgihlly recommend this book.
September 6, 2023
Two friends (their birthdays are about a week apart) have a school assignment to write their obituaries.
Not Your Shoe Size alternates view points between the two friends, one who prioritizes youth and beauty and the other who engages and works in a senior living facility.
I struggled with finishing Not Your Shoe Size, but I'm glad that I did stick with it.
The cover is really beautiful.
As for rating the book, it is probably somewhere around 3 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and publisher BooksGoSocial for the opportunity to review the advance read copy of Not Your Shoe Size in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to BooksGoSocial for approving my request to read. Thank you to Jennifer DiVita for the work that she has done in supporting us as we age.
Not Your Shoe Size alternates view points between the two friends, one who prioritizes youth and beauty and the other who engages and works in a senior living facility.
I struggled with finishing Not Your Shoe Size, but I'm glad that I did stick with it.
The cover is really beautiful.
As for rating the book, it is probably somewhere around 3 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and publisher BooksGoSocial for the opportunity to review the advance read copy of Not Your Shoe Size in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to BooksGoSocial for approving my request to read. Thank you to Jennifer DiVita for the work that she has done in supporting us as we age.
July 17, 2023
I loved the cover and description of Not Your Shoe Size and must say, I was not disappointed. Colette and Julia's friendship over 100 years gave me all the feels. I have two besties from childhood and I could see so much of my friendships in here. DiVita capture the essence of true friendship: the good the bad and the ugly perfection.
I think the author really portrayed friendships through the ages from childhood to adulthood and into old age. It was a well written, fast paced story that I will read again at another point.
If you like stories of women and friendship - this is the book for you!
I definitely suggest reading this book!
I think the author really portrayed friendships through the ages from childhood to adulthood and into old age. It was a well written, fast paced story that I will read again at another point.
If you like stories of women and friendship - this is the book for you!
I definitely suggest reading this book!
July 22, 2023
First of all, I would like to thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author of this book for giving me a chance to read this book. However, I was not able to finish the book as it may not be for me. I like the premise as it talks about 2 women going through teens and old age. I also like the fact that it showed different perspective of each other who experience different things in life while having completely different personalities. Still, it did not give me that certain excitement in continuing reading it. Just to make a comment on the technicalities of the ARC, the kindle version of it has many typographical errors which, I think, should be corrected as the PDF copy was just okay.
August 14, 2023
This was a well written book about girls in different stages of their life realizing that what we think we wanted and what we thought our lives would be when we are young is not always how things turn out. I liked how it showed the different stages and showed that even though things weren't perfect we still should live life to the fullest and had a good life. I liked their personalities and how they saw life. I thought this was a good story about what is important in life and embracing and living life to the fullest.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
August 22, 2023
A quick lighthearted story about two women who became lifelong best friends since kindergarten. The story follows them through marriages, divorces, and family drama. As a mid-50’s myself, I was able to relate to these ladies as I have had a friend since kindergarten as well. I loved Collette’s passion and humility, a true honest person with everyone in her life as well as a real true friend to Julie. We always wonder why people are in our lives for a reason, a season, or a lifetime. The friendship between these two ladies shows a lifetime of friendship even through the difficulties.
I received a digital copy of the book. All opinions are my own.
I received a digital copy of the book. All opinions are my own.
July 10, 2023
Jennifer DiVita takes us on a journey of Colette and Julia. 2 women, completely different in background and personality, who found each other at the age of 10 and forged a bond that spanned over 90 years. Their endless devotion to one other as they experience life’s joys and sorrows is heartwarming, while their fear of aging with each passing decade can resonate with all of us. Not Your Shoe Size is a fun and touching read about relationships and mortality, and Jennifer shines as a storyteller - capturing the true essence of this special female friendship through the years.
July 11, 2023
In a series of vignettes, we follow Collette and Julia through 100 years of friendship. At times, it reads almost like a "what to expect when you expect to get old" manual, but the quirky and opposing viewpoints make you see that age is just a number, and we are all growing, learning and changing throughout our entire lives. There are so many moments that I saw myself in, I almost felt called out, but I truly felt like I made two new friends while reading this book. I didn't want it to end. But it is wrapped up so beautifully that my heart still aches. A must read with your best friend!
July 13, 2023
Not Your Shoe Size is the debut novel from Jennifer DiVita! It is a wonderful story that follows 2 women throughout their lives, detailing what each decade is like for them! I love how Jennifer was very descriptive in her writing and really captured the struggles and triumphs these women faced in each aspect of their life! It really was a full circle story that captivated me from the first page! I’m excited to see what other stories Jennifer writes in the future!
I received an ARC from the publisher with no requirements to write a positive review.
I received an ARC from the publisher with no requirements to write a positive review.
July 14, 2023
I chose to read Not Your Shoe Size based on its description, and I have to say it did NOT disappoint! I adored this book that details Colette and Julia at different stages in their lives. It begins at age ten and goes all the way up until age one hundred.
I feel like Jennifer DeVita truly captures each age in an honest way. Parts of it echoed some of my concerns with getting older. However, the ideas of living each day to the fullest and that age is just a number truly resonate with me at this stage in my life.
I definitely suggest reading this book!
I feel like Jennifer DeVita truly captures each age in an honest way. Parts of it echoed some of my concerns with getting older. However, the ideas of living each day to the fullest and that age is just a number truly resonate with me at this stage in my life.
I definitely suggest reading this book!
July 19, 2023
***Not Your Shoe Size is a story about a lifelong friendship between two very different women and follows them through some of life’s milestones until they reach their 100th year. Written in dual first person accounts, the author defines what each considers the most important thing about the highlighted milestones. The writing is clever and interesting as each matures and grapples with age as well as the good and bad times in life. I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book from NetGalley.
August 13, 2023
In Not Your Shoe Size, you will follow the lives of Julia and Colette from childhood to 100. Theirs is an unusual but enduring friendship. Julia accepts aging gracefully while Colette fights it "tooth and toenail". I am not really into comedy reading and Not Your Shoe Size has lots of comedy so I did not care for the first half of the book! That is just my personal preference. I found the later years of their lives interesting. Also, I usually read clean fiction and Not Your Shoe Size would not meet that criteria. I received a complimentary e-book. This is my honest opinion.
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