Monkeyface: A Memoir

by Judith Podell

Monkeyface is the story of a life well-lived by an extraordinary woman, now in her 80s, who says that her greatest weakness and strength are one and the same: "You always know where you stand with me." Judith Podell tells her stories with a mixture of honesty and wit, describing growing up in New York City, the joys, and perils of parenting, succeeding in sales in the male-dominated 1970s, and the complex emotions of growing up Jewish in America.

Judy candidly describes her one true love (and the men she didn't sleep with), her sometimes difficult relationships with her siblings, and her fears and failures as a parent. Through it all runs her Jewish identity, a source of pride and vulnerability in these turbulent times. That Judy is able to communicate deep ideas and feelings, often in fewer than 1,000 words, takes her memoir to another, highly entertaining, level.

Genres: Memoir

200 pages, Paperback

Published January 20, 2024

Reviews

[Shirley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed Judith’s collection of essays highlighting various times in her life: some gut wrenching, others surprising, as well as heart felt. The essays are neatly organized and portray the development of a spirited young girl, a woman living by her own terms, and philosophies on experiencing life in your 80’s and the questions that still remain. One big takeaway … ‘Remember, you will die.” These four words will provide the reader with foresight, forgiveness, gratitude, and grace. Thank you Judy.

[Martin Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Monkeyface is sly and funny and wonderfully entertaining—no surprise there, given the title—but it’s also a moving and important book full of big-time revelations. Judith Podell’s memoir is blunt and unflinching and, at times, flat-out profound. She always learns, always asks the right question, and, my goodness, talk about making your own way in the world and leaving your mark. I’m delighted she put her years on paper—I’m wiser and better because of it. Well done.