Anne Johnson

Charlotte and Alice Anne Johnson

If you are interested in Czech history, US history, feminism, prison, or mother-daughter relationships, you will love this story. Charlotte Garrigue was an American citizen who married Tomás Masaryk in 1878. Masaryk became the founder and first president of Czechoslovakia in 1918. Before he became president, the family endured difficult times; in 1915, their daughter Alice was arrested for treason against the Austro-Hungarian monarchy. This book is a collection of the letters between Charlotte and Alice during her imprisonment in Vienna. It's an interesting behind-the-scenes look at two strong and brilliant women. Their letters feature reflections on literature and religion that provide a window into that time. The book features an introduction by the historian Marie Neudorflová and has footnotes providing facts and context.