Behind Her Smile:

PANJEE

BEHIND HER SMILE is written by Beverly Golden Cuevas. It is a “Fly Girl Guide” on becoming a Stewardess right through what it is like to be one. Cuevas is a long-time Stewardess/Flight Attendant and her book is something like a bible in the industry. The book is broken down into different sections, offering a behind-the-scenes look into applying for the job, intense and challenging training to become a Stewardess, and an exciting lifestyle.

This memoir, published offers a light hearted story of the author’s experiences as a Stewardess during the “Golden Age” of air travel. It provided insights into the glamorous and exciting aspects of the profession. From spending time with people such as Elvis Presley whom she had on a flight and built a relationship which lasted for years to come. 

After the change in rules regarding marriage. She married a Management Understudy with American Airlines, hoping this was going to be like the lengthy and loving marriage her parents shared for 55 years. Sadly it did not turn out that way. Meeting a Professional ABA Basketball player named Wendell Ladner taught her what an incredibly loving relationship was supposed to be like. A tragic event happened that changed her life forever.

Behind Her Smile provides insights into the experiences, challenges, and daily lives of those working in her profession, giving you a glimpse into a world typically unseen by passengers.

Gina R Mitchell

“Behind Her Smile: The Adventures of a Tall Girl from WVA and Her Life as a Stewardess” by Beverly Golden Cuevas is a captivating exploration of Janie’s life, weaving a narrative that unfolds beyond the confines of her small-town upbringing in Parkersburg, WVA.

The book brilliantly captures a variety of emotions, drawing readers into Janie’s world as she navigates the unexpected turns her life takes. From the apprehension of applying for a stewardess position to the astonishment of being accepted, Janie’s journey opens up a whole new realm of experiences.

The narrative skillfully portrays her encounters with politicians, movie stars, and even a special connection with the legendary Elvis Presley. These encounters add layers of depth to Janie’s life, creating a rich tapestry of adventures that keeps readers engrossed.

One of the standout qualities of the book is the highly relatable main character, Janie. As someone who grew up in a small rural town, I found myself easily connecting with her aspirations, fears, and triumphs. The relatability of Janie makes her journey all the more engaging, allowing readers to empathize with her challenges and cheer for her successes.

For those like me who once viewed being a stewardess as the pinnacle of a glamorous life, the book provides a delightful and entertaining perspective. The narrative not only offers a nostalgic trip down memory lane for those who shared similar aspirations but also serves as a testament to the universal theme of chasing dreams, even when they seem out of reach.

“Behind Her Smile” delves into the complexities of Janie’s life, exploring the challenges she faces in marrying someone so different from her roots and the struggles of trying to fit into a new and unfamiliar world.

The book takes an unexpected turn as it reveals a devastating event that profoundly impacts Janie, prompting her to reexamine her life and reassess what truly matters to her. This emotional depth adds a poignant layer to the narrative, elevating it beyond a mere chronicle of glamorous adventures to a story that resonates on a personal and introspective level.

Overall, the book earns its well-deserved four-star rating, delivering a compelling tale that blends entertainment with relatability and emotional resonance.

I received a copy of the book for the tour. This review is my honest, unbiased opinion.

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I received an advance review audiobook for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you Beverly Golden Cuevas and iRead Book Tours. I’m excited to be a part of this tour.

I have always wanted to be a stewardess; I think the job would be fun (or not so fun in the age of COVID and bad behavior) and you’d get to see the world as part of your job! How cool would that be? I honestly have no idea why I’ve never actually given it a thought outside of my mom being adamant I was going to college between 18-22. I did that and marriage felt like the right next step, and it didn’t seem possible. Maybe it will be my post higher education career? Regardless, I have digressed and appreciate your sticking with me.

Due to my curiosity of what the life of a stewardess was really like, I jumped at the chance to read and review this book. Another thing I know about myself is that I often romanticize things that are anything but. I enjoyed Janie’s backstory; it gave her story depth and helped me connect as well as identify with her. I was also drawn to her because my family, minus me, worked for the phone company, and I understood the culture. I like that the story begins in small town Parkersburg, WV and ends with one awe inspiring career lasting decades.

Like any adult, Janie faces various peaks and valleys through her life. The good news is, she’s also preserved through them and has the strength to meet almost anything head on. Throughout the book we meet many fascinating and powerful people (politicians, athletes, musicians, etc.) but who would have thought she would be friends with the King of Rock n’ Roll himself, Elvis Presley.

What I loved most was how candid she was about her life. The good, the bad, and the ugly and did so with humor and grace. I am always intrigued to read about life through the eyes of others as it helps me to see all the commonalities between humans regardless of our backgrounds. I also thoroughly enjoyed the photos and meeting her family, her first love, and high school besties. This is one of the best memoirs I’ve read in a long time. I hope to read more from this author!