READING—FEMALE DOCTORS
The Doctors Blackwell by Janice P. Nimura
The book’s subtitle: How Two Pioneering Sisters Brought Medicine to Women and Women to Medicine, aptly captures the mission of Elizabeth and Emily Blackwell. Born in Bristol, England, into a large family, Elizabeth and Emily emigrated to Cincinnati when they were just eleven and six. Although not wealthy, their parents prized education and, Elizabeth from an early age thought herself destined for greatness of some sort. She believed herself superior to most everyone and especially to other women.
Rejected by several medical schools, she ultimately was the lone female student at Geneva Medical College in upstate New York. In 1849, she became the first woman in the U.S. to become an M.D. Elizabeth put in her time observing and treating patients in Edinburgh and Paris, but she much preferred writing and teaching. Later she founded and directed the first clinic and hospital in New York solely for women and children. This was long before the germ theory of disease was put forth.
Elizabeth was forceful, and she prevailed on Emily to pursue her medical degree and then join her. For years, Emily followed in Elizabeth’s wake in a subordinate position until finally she tired of it. These women doctors were dedicated to medicine in their separate ways and yet remained supportive of each other’s efforts. Of the two, Emily was the more compassionate and caring practicing doctor.
A fascinating account of the obstacles they overcame in their intertwined careers, it’s also a detailed study of complex sibling relationships. Neither woman ever married.
ON THE SCREEN
Historical Crime Series
Vienna Blood (PBS Masterpiece)
Set in the early 1900’s, this 6-part Austrian crime series pairs Detective Oskar Rheinhardt with Max Liebermann, a young doctor in training. Oskar was happiest working alone and less than enthusiastic when Dr. Liebermann came along to observe a case. Max is studying to be a psychiatrist. An admirer of Freud and his methods, Max thinks about the criminal mind and what motivates a murder. As Max becomes more involved, Oskar begins to appreciate his insights and the two form an unlikely team.
The murder scenes are gruesome ones, graphic and appropriately bloody, and “viewer discretion is advised.” I found the first episode grim and dark but got more engaged as Oskar and Max become partners. Along the way, we get to know Max’s family and his fiancée and learn a bit more about Oskar’s personal life. There are plans for a second season and we’ll be there!
Mouthwatering Fare
Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy (CNN)
I thought Stanley Tucci was marvelous in the film, Julie and Julia, as Paul Child alongside Meryl Streep. That was at least ten years ago, and Tucci is still charming and sexy with a lovely deep voice. Here he brings his passion for food to the fore introducing viewers to the tastes, smells, and sights of culinary Italy. There are six episodes in this first season, and you don’t need to watch them in order.
We began with Campania (think Naples and pizza) and then moved on to Tuscany (steak Florentine and panzanella). The other evening it was on to Bologna, source of delectable prosciutto, nutty Parmesan, and delicate tortellini. Stanley is a warm and relaxed guide who provides snippets of history and then meets up with professors, farmers, producers, and chefs. Everywhere he goes, he tastes and exclaims and tastes some more.
If you are an Italianophile, you’ll appreciate anew the variety and richness of the country’s cuisine and its passionate citizens. If you are a foodie, it’s essential viewing! Just be sure you eat before you watch.
CULINARY CORNER
Cottonmouth Southern Soul Kitchen
Located in Bradenton’s Village of the Arts, this newish restaurant has a spacious back patio and boasts tasty southern cuisine. We went with friends mid-week and were the only outside diners for most of our meal. Our waitress was friendly and helpful as we decided on our orders.
The fried green tomatoes were perfect. The fried calamari Thai style was an interesting attempt but a bit lacking. The ribs and the meatloaf burger (adorned with tater tots) were very good very large portions. The crab cake and shrimp and cheese grits entrées also got high marks. A selection of wines by the glass and beers including original Pabst Blue Ribbon rounded out the meal. If you like live music, Tuesday and Saturday are the nights, and on Sundays they offer a hillbilly/ gospel brunch. We might try the latter—just for the experience!
Note: Photo of a gallery in Village of the Arts courtesy of 83degreesmedia.com.
