"Does class matter for intimate ties? While so much sociology emphasizes the power of the present-in organizations, institutions, or networks-Streib looks at couples in which the spouses come from different class backgrounds and convincingly argues that it is their prior differences that play a key role in the different approaches they bring to their current relationships-even though couples often deny these effects. The Power of the Past is elegantly argued, cleverly designed, theoretically sophisticated and an entertaining read." -Naomi Gerstel, Distinguished University Professor, University of Massachusetts, Amherst "Jessi Streib presents an intelligent and creative analysis about the enduring way in which family-of-origin social class plays an irrepressible role in our adult lives. An imaginative and thought-provoking work." -Michael Rosenfeld, Stanford University "Streib skillfully melds her observations with analysis, and though not heavy on theory, her work does provide interesting comments regarding other sociological views on class and marriage. This book is well written and readable, very suitable for undergraduate collections on social stratification and on marriage and family. Highly recommended" -CHOICE "This work is an excellent example of qualitative sociology and it is a pleasure to read. Streib is a natural story-teller who has a gift for telling the narratives of her respondents.

The highest praise I can think of for a work of empirical sociology is to recommend that non-sociologists read it. In particular, those who are currently living in a cross-class marriage should read this book. The Power of the Past promises couples and sociologists greater understanding of how family life is shaped by the past." -Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare "Many studies use statistics to compare families in different classes, but Streib's qualitative approach draws attention to class differences within families. The book will be of great interest to those familiar with the social class literature, which Streib skillfully integrates throughout. Streib's highly accessible writing style also makes it useful for those less familiar with class scholarship. It might serve as a teaching tool for showing students how things we see as deeply personal, like whom we fall in love with, are connected to broader social forces." -American Journal of Sociology.