Beverly Golden Cuevas’ Behind Her Smile: The Adventures of a Tall Girl from WVA and Her Life as a Stewardess offers a rich tapestry of historical context, personal growth, and nostalgia. It traces the journey of Janie, the protagonist, from her modest beginnings in Parkersburg, West Virginia—a town marked by limited opportunities for women and above-average poverty rates—to her transformative career as a flight attendant.
The narrative starts with Janie’s early life, highlighting her transition from a stagnant job at a telephone company to the dynamic world of aviation, spurred by her best friend’s encouragement. Despite initial apprehensions about her height affecting her employability, Janie embarks on a career that takes her to numerous cities and introduces her to a variety of notable figures, including politicians, movie stars, athletes, and musicians. A particularly poignant aspect of Janie’s story is her interaction with Elvis Presley. Their heartwarming connection, forged during her time as a flight attendant, remains a memorable part of her life, enduring until Elvis’s death in 1977. Cuevas masterfully uses first-person narration to bring alive the 1950s, skillfully weaving together the challenges of the era with personal struggles and the journey of coming of age. The novel not only serves as a memoir but also as a vessel for valuable life lessons, such as perseverance and the importance of a strong work ethic.
Behind Her Smile: The Adventures of a Tall Girl from WVA and Her Life as a Stewardess offers insight into the demanding role of flight attendants, highlighting the extensive work and various challenges they face in ensuring passenger safety. This portrayal aims to garner appreciation and respect for the profession and the dedication of those who serve in it.