Vivian's Decision - by Della Leavitt (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

An evocative work of historical fiction, Vivian's Decision is an all too relevant story of repeated history, female friendship, and the strength that it takes to make choices of one's own.

Vivian Jacobson is distraught to be pregnant again. Already drowning in the demands of her four young children, she can't imagine adding a fifth to her brood. Her husband, Mel, is a devoted partner, but he works long days in his family's Maxwell Street tavern--leaving Vivian isolated and overwhelmed in their suburban Chicago home.

When Vivian pleads with Mel to let her ask her trusted obstetrician for an abortion, Mel reluctantly agrees. Her doctor won't risk his license, but refers her to someone who will. Once she finds herself in the sleazy abortionist's disgusting makeshift flat, she can't go through with the procedure. As she flees, the man warns her that the clock is ticking: If she wants this abortion, she must return within one week.

As Vivian struggles with what to do, she is buffeted by a series of revelations, including her Jewish immigrant mother's parallel secret. Ultimately, she must find the courage to make the decision that is best for her family--and her own fulfillment.

Review Quotes

"Leavitt has written a fictional family saga reminding us that, especially for women, past is more than prologue. Self-determination requires courage . . . and sisterhood."--Jill Pollack, founder of StoryStudio Chicago

"A tender, charming, and generous story, filled with affection and deep knowing."--Abby Geni, author of The Body Farm

"Della Leavitt's exhaustive research and attention to detail shows on every page of this masterful work. Vivian's Decision is heartwarming and heartbreaking in equal measure."--Goldie Goldbloom, author of On Division, winner of the 2020 Association of Jewish Libraries Jewish Fiction Award

"Della Leavitt illuminates with grace and pathos the demands, often hidden from view, of motherhood and marriage. Vivian's Decision is a moving portrait of a woman on the edge--of a life-altering choice, of change, of self-discovery."--Christine Sneed, best-selling author of Little Known Facts and Paris, He Said

About the Author

Della Leavitt draws inspiration from the lives of resilient women. After careers in technology and math education, she embarked on an intensive study to write fiction within Chicago's vibrant writing community. Della earned a historical novel fellowship from the Newberry Library and a grant from Chicago's Department of Cultural Affairs & Special Events (DCASE) while writing this novel. She lives in Chicago with her family.