Behind Every Good Man Summary, Characters and Themes
Behind Every Good Man by Sara Goodman Confino is a spirited, empowering novel set in the political and social whirlwind of the early 1960s.
It follows Beverly Diamond, a suburban housewife whose life takes a dramatic turn when she discovers her husband’s infidelity. Rather than retreat into despair, Beverly reclaims her independence by stepping into the male-dominated world of politics, where she becomes a key figure in a progressive senatorial campaign. The story is a heartwarming and humorous journey of resilience, self-discovery, and empowerment, with historical backdrops like the Kennedy era and the civil rights movement adding depth and urgency.
Summary
In 1962 suburban Maryland, Beverly Diamond appears to be living the quintessential life of a perfect housewife.
She is married to Larry, a political campaign manager, and spends her days taking care of their two young children. However, her seemingly ideal world shatters when she walks in on Larry having an affair with his secretary. Devastated but determined not to let him ruin her life, Beverly kicks him out of their home.
Her resolve to take control of her own fate sets the stage for an inspiring journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
Beverly’s troubles escalate when Larry threatens to use his political connections to take custody of their children and leave her with nothing. Instead of cowering, Beverly makes a bold decision: she joins the senatorial campaign of Larry’s rival, Michael Landau.
Michael is a younger, progressive candidate with ideas centered around social reform and civil rights—values that deeply resonate with Beverly.
Despite her lack of formal experience in politics, Beverly quickly proves that her sharp instincts, charisma, and sheer determination make her a formidable presence on the campaign trail.
Michael’s campaign is struggling when Beverly steps in. His current campaign manager, Stuart, dismisses Beverly as a meddling housewife, resistant to her ideas and unwilling to change his approach.
However, Beverly’s fresh perspective breathes new life into the campaign. She pushes for modernizing Michael’s image, updating his speeches, and addressing issues that matter to women and marginalized communities.
As the campaign gains traction, Beverly’s contributions become impossible to ignore—even by Stuart, who reluctantly starts to see her value.
The political race heats up, with Larry growing increasingly alarmed by Beverly’s growing influence. Determined to maintain his power, he resorts to underhanded tactics to sabotage both her efforts and Michael’s campaign.
But Beverly, now emboldened by her successes and supported by her spirited mother, refuses to back down.
She has evolved from a passive, obedient wife into a confident, independent woman who no longer lets societal expectations dictate her choices.
While Beverly focuses on reshaping the campaign, a subtle romance begins to bloom between her and Michael.
Initially wary of trusting her, Michael comes to admire Beverly’s intelligence, passion, and resilience. Their partnership, both professional and personal, highlights the evolving dynamics between men and women in the political and social spheres of the time.
As Election Day approaches, the stakes are higher than ever.
Beverly must not only prove that Michael is the right choice for Maryland but also show Larry—and society at large—that she is capable of achieving success on her own terms.
In doing so, Beverly becomes a symbol of the changing roles of women during a transformative period in American history.
Set against the backdrop of the Kennedy era and the civil rights movement, Behind Every Good Man is a story of personal growth, resilience, and empowerment.
Beverly’s journey reflects the broader social shifts of the 1960s, as women began to assert their independence and demand a voice in traditionally male-dominated spaces.
Through her wit, courage, and refusal to conform, Beverly inspires readers to embrace their own power and push against societal limitations.
Characters
Beverly Diamond
Beverly Diamond is the central protagonist of Behind Every Good Man, and her character undergoes significant growth throughout the novel. Initially, she is portrayed as a perfect 1960s housewife, devoted to her husband Larry and her two children.
However, her life takes a sharp turn when she discovers her husband’s infidelity. Rather than becoming a passive victim of her circumstances, Beverly seizes control of her life with resilience and determination.
She transitions from a subservient, domestic figure into a powerful, independent woman with political ambitions. Her involvement in Michael Landau’s senatorial campaign marks the beginning of her self-reinvention.
Beverly’s sharp mind, political savvy, and ability to recognize the power dynamics around her make her an invaluable asset in the campaign. As the story unfolds, Beverly’s transformation from a passive wife into an assertive force for change mirrors the broader societal shifts of the 1960s, particularly the women’s rights movement.
Her character is a testament to the personal and political empowerment of women during a time of significant change in America.
Larry Diamond
Larry Diamond, Beverly’s husband, is the story’s antagonist, and his betrayal sets the plot in motion. He is a political figure, working as the campaign manager for the incumbent Maryland senator, Sam Gibson.
Larry’s role in the story is largely defined by his actions, which serve as a catalyst for Beverly’s transformation. He represents the traditional male authority figure of the 1960s—self-assured, condescending, and dismissive of his wife’s capabilities.
Larry takes Beverly’s domestic role for granted and sees her as little more than a housewife, unaware of her potential. His affair with his secretary exposes his hypocrisy and dishonesty.
When Beverly decides to fight back by joining the opposing campaign, Larry reacts with arrogance and contempt, seeking to undermine her efforts. His actions are primarily driven by a sense of entitlement and fear of losing control over his professional and personal life.
Despite his attempts to maintain dominance, he ultimately reveals himself as weak and incapable of dealing with Beverly’s newfound strength and autonomy.
Michael Landau
Michael Landau is the progressive senatorial candidate who finds himself caught between the old-school politics of Larry Diamond’s candidate and the more forward-thinking ideals that Beverly champions. Michael is portrayed as intelligent, principled, and somewhat reserved, but also not fully aware of how to navigate the complex political landscape of the 1960s.
While he is progressive in his values, especially when it comes to civil rights and social reform, his campaign initially lacks the energy and appeal needed to compete against the established power of Sam Gibson. Beverly’s involvement in his campaign helps him shape his public image, modernize his approach, and make a genuine connection with voters.
As they work together, a romantic connection begins to develop between Beverly and Michael. Michael grows to respect and admire Beverly’s insights, her tenacity, and her passion for change.
He gradually becomes an ally who not only listens to her but also learns from her. Michael’s character represents the evolving political landscape, where new ideas and fresh voices were beginning to emerge to challenge the established norms.
Stuart
Stuart is Michael Landau’s campaign manager and one of the characters who adds both tension and eventual depth to the story. Initially, he is dismissive of Beverly’s contributions, seeing her as nothing more than a meddling housewife.
His character embodies the entrenched sexism that was prevalent in the early 1960s, particularly in political circles. Stuart resists Beverly’s ideas, dismissing her insights simply because she is a woman.
However, as the campaign progresses and Beverly continues to push her agenda, Stuart begins to recognize her intelligence and strategic thinking. His character arc represents the subtle shift in attitudes toward women in positions of power and influence.
Although he is slow to change, Stuart eventually becomes one of Beverly’s strongest supporters, acknowledging the value she brings to the campaign. His transformation highlights the social evolution of the time, where even those who are initially resistant to change are eventually compelled to accept it.
Bev’s Mother
Beverly’s mother plays a crucial, yet often underappreciated, role in her transformation. She is a strong, spirited woman who provides both comic relief and invaluable wisdom throughout the novel.
Though her role may seem secondary, her influence on Beverly is profound. She encourages Beverly to stand up for herself and to embrace the opportunities before her.
In many ways, Bev’s mother acts as a precursor to the feminist awakening that Beverly herself will undergo. Her relationship with Beverly is both loving and supportive, yet not without its moments of sharp-edged humor.
She also serves as a counterbalance to the domineering presence of Larry, offering Beverly a glimpse of the strength and autonomy that is possible beyond traditional gender roles. While she may not have had the same opportunities as Beverly, her advice and emotional support become essential as Beverly finds her own voice and purpose.
Themes
Gendered Power Dynamics and the Struggle for Autonomy
In Behind Every Good Man, Beverly Diamond’s journey of transformation is intricately tied to the shifting gendered power dynamics of 1960s America. As a housewife, Beverly’s world is confined to the private sphere, where her role is dictated by traditional gender expectations—nurturing children, managing the household, and supporting her husband.
However, when she uncovers her husband Larry’s infidelity, she is thrust into a journey of self-discovery that forces her to confront the broader societal limitations placed on women. In choosing to confront Larry on his betrayal by joining his political opponent’s campaign, Beverly makes an audacious move toward reclaiming her independence.
This decision is not merely an act of rebellion against Larry, but a declaration of autonomy within a society that offers limited avenues for women’s self-determination, particularly in the male-dominated arena of politics. Her efforts to modernize Michael Landau’s campaign not only highlight her savvy political instincts but also reflect her desire to redefine what it means to be a woman, pushing back against traditional roles and striving for equality.
Political Mobilization as a Pathway to Personal Empowerment and Societal Reform
The novel is set in the midst of the 1960s, a pivotal period in American politics where sweeping changes were being demanded by marginalized groups, particularly women and African Americans. The political campaign that Beverly gets involved in is more than just a backdrop for the personal drama of the story—it is a vehicle for her empowerment.
As she joins Michael Landau’s senatorial campaign, Beverly’s ability to influence the political landscape mirrors her growing self-confidence and agency. At first, she is perceived as an outsider, and her attempts to contribute are often dismissed, primarily due to her gender.
However, Beverly’s determination to modernize the campaign and introduce progressive policies—particularly on civil rights and women’s issues—demonstrates how political activism can serve as a powerful tool for societal change. In this context, the campaign becomes more than just a battle for political office; it becomes a platform for challenging the status quo and empowering women to not just participate in, but actively shape, political discourse.
Beverly’s transformation into a political strategist symbolizes a larger, nationwide awakening during the civil rights movement, where people, especially women, began to realize their power and voice in matters of public policy.
Reimagining Women’s Roles Within a Historical Context of Social Change and Civil Rights Movements
The historical backdrop of Behind Every Good Man—set during the early 1960s—is integral to understanding Beverly’s journey. The novel exists at a crossroads of significant social change, with the civil rights movement gaining momentum and the feminist movement on the rise.
Beverly’s story intersects with these broader historical shifts, as her personal evolution mirrors the collective reimagining of women’s roles in American society. In the novel, women are starting to step beyond their traditional domestic confines, entering spaces once reserved for men, especially in fields like politics and law.
Beverly’s decision to take part in the political campaign is not merely a personal decision; it is a manifestation of a changing societal paradigm. Her efforts to influence political discourse—particularly her focus on women’s issues and civil rights—represent the slow but irreversible transformation in the way women are expected to engage with the world.
The novel reflects the tension between traditional gender roles and the emerging feminist consciousness, exploring how women in the 1960s began to push against these boundaries and demand a more equal and active role in both the private and public spheres.
Resilience and Self-Discovery Amid Personal Betrayal and Societal Expectations
Beverly’s emotional and psychological growth forms the heart of Behind Every Good Man. The novel’s premise—her husband’s affair and subsequent betrayal—sets off a journey of resilience and self-discovery.
Initially, Beverly is a woman defined by her devotion to her husband and children, her life seemingly in perfect order until the day of her revelation. Rather than succumbing to despair, Beverly redirects her energy into carving out a new identity, one that is not defined by the expectations of her husband or society.
This transition is marked by her entry into a male-dominated political sphere, where her talents and contributions are consistently undervalued. However, Beverly’s growth is characterized by her refusal to give up, even in the face of societal and familial pressures.
Her determination to become a key player in Michael Landau’s campaign is symbolic of her larger struggle for self-worth and recognition beyond the domestic sphere. The narrative emphasizes that self-discovery, though often painful, is an essential part of reclaiming one’s identity and place in the world.
Beverly’s resilience serves as a beacon of hope for others, particularly women, who find themselves at crossroads of personal betrayal or societal expectation.
Romantic Relationships Interwoven with Professional and Political Ambitions
In Behind Every Good Man, the blossoming romance between Beverly and Michael Landau is woven into a larger narrative about personal and professional growth. While the novel primarily focuses on Beverly’s political and personal transformation, her relationship with Michael offers a nuanced exploration of how romantic involvement can intersect with career and ambition.
Initially, Beverly’s motivations for joining the campaign are driven by personal vendettas—namely, her desire to confront her estranged husband and gain independence. However, as she works closely with Michael, a subtle romantic connection begins to form.
Michael initially views Beverly’s involvement as a complication, but over time, he comes to admire her intellect, drive, and political insight. The romantic development between them is not the central focus of the narrative but adds a layer of complexity to Beverly’s character arc.
It underscores the balancing act that women, especially those breaking new ground in their careers, must navigate between personal desires and professional ambitions. Beverly’s romantic relationship with Michael serves as a contrast to her earlier marriage, showing her growth not only as a political strategist but as a woman who demands more from her relationships—emotional fulfillment, respect, and mutual growth.
Legacy, Mentorship, and the Importance of Maternal Influence in the Pursuit of Independence
Beverly’s transformation is not achieved in isolation; her mother plays a pivotal role in shaping her sense of self-worth and resilience. Throughout the story, Beverly’s relationship with her mother provides emotional grounding and practical wisdom that bolsters her resolve.
Bev’s mother, herself a strong and spirited woman, represents an alternative model of womanhood—one where independence and strength are prized over submission and passivity. Her maternal influence encourages Beverly to stand up for herself and take risks in a world that often underestimates women.
This theme of legacy and mentorship is crucial because it suggests that women do not undergo their transformations in a vacuum; rather, they are shaped by the lessons and examples set by those who came before them. Beverly’s mother’s character offers not only support but a tangible vision of the possibilities available to women when they embrace their power.
Through this relationship, the novel emphasizes that the journey toward independence is often intertwined with the wisdom and sacrifices of the women who came before, creating a generational narrative of empowerment.