Beer Money by Frances Stroh

Book Review

Beer Money is a memoir by Frances Stroh about the fall of her family’s brewing business in Detroit, Michigan. Stroh takes you on an a realistic journey of the high and luxurious times of when the business was good and the low times when the business started to decline, later in her teenage/early adult years. You follow Stroh from her childhood to adulthood with quick glimpses at certain life events.

Beer Money is a very quick read/listen that offers you a glimpse into the wealthy stature of American high class. Interesting choices of memories from her past fill this book. Some of the memories are somewhat easy to relate to. However, a majority of them can be a coin flip if the reader/listener can relate to it or not.

This is the first book I’ve listened to that has been narrated by Erin Bennet and she does a great job. In my honest opinion Bennet is the one that saves this book completely. Adding a somber mood throughout definitely helps the listener stay engaged.

In conclusion, Beer Money is an interesting take on the life of the privileged losing it all. However, the direction and point of the memoir at this time is unknown. With how damaged this country is with the divide between the wealthy and the not so wealthy, I can see how this book lacking a common interest. Especially with the success of the author being an installation artist, I find it hard to feel any concern or interest for the Stroh family.

Story: 1/5

Narration: 4/5

Overall: 2.5/5

Pros: Great narration.

Cons: Misguided story that attempts to make you feel sympathy for the Stroh family.