Fiction   A two-part novel, in-progress 

Part I,  told by a newly-graduated registered nurse, takes place in 1931 in a midwestern institution replete with experimental methods and ambition.

 Part II, told by an achievement-driven journalist, takes place in the same midwestern state more than 80 years later.

 Each of these women must confront the consequences of shame. Each risks life and career in attempts to uncover the truth and speak truth to power. 

Non-fiction Oldest Daughters–

What to know if you are one or have ever been bossed around by one

(copyright ©2017 by Patricia Schudy)

The cover illustrates the overlapping bubble of an oldest daughter’s self with her family.  Even when the oldest daughter has moved outside the immediate sphere of her family, interaction continues.

The author explores what it means to be an adult oldest daughter or to be her sibling or spouse.  In the book’s ten chapters she shares stories gleaned  from her in-depth interviews with more than 100 oldest daughters, siblings and spouses.  

Each chapter discusses a characteristic often used to describe an oldest daughter or her relationships with others: Different, Born to Lead, Brought Up to Boss, Little Mothers, Response-Ability, Siblingspeak, Ties that Bind, Across Borders, Change, Please, Selfies 

A website, Oldest Daughters: Women of Influence (https://www.oldestdaughters.com) provides ongoing information and discussion through a blog.

What readers are saying 

• “…you will likely find reflections of your experience in the dozens of personal, family stories that are shared in Patricia Schudy’s insightful book.  The professional insights offered by psychologist Kristin S. Russell, Ph.D., are particularly useful.” (Suzanne Oliver, Co-Author, The Faith Club.)
• “A ground-breaking book.”  (Barbara Bartocci, Author, Nobody’s Child Anymore.)
•  “I want to know I’m not the only one out there feeling this way.”
• “I can’t believe I’m the only one wanting to know how to survive an oldest daughter!

Birth order is a fact; It does not have to be a fate.  Oldest Daughters —What to Know… affirms that changes are possible and can be rewarding.

Available through amazon.com and upon request at most independent books stores.