Memoirs of a Happy Failure

By: Alice von Hildebrand, John Henry Crosby

Narrated by: Winsome Brown

Alice von Hildebrand is a household name to millions who know her from her countless appearances on EWTN, her many important books, and her voluminous articles and essays.

But little known is the story of her life, notably the 37 years she spent at Hunter College in New York City.

There, despite unceasing opposition that might have defeated even the strongest of souls, she endured with grace and devotion, leaving a mark on a generation of students through her defense of truth through persuasion, wit, and love. By showing her students how truth fulfills the deepest longings of the human heart, she helped to liberate countless students from the oppressive relativism of the day, enabling many of them to find their way to God.

Now, for the first time, discover Alice von Hildebrand’s story told memorably in her own words, including:

• Her thrilling escape from Europe that was nearly halted by a Nazi ship
• Her early days in America and her dedication to education and cultivating wisdom
• Her marriage to the great philosopher Dietrich von Hildebrand
• Her victories and defeats at Hunter where she was surrounded by a culture of relativism
• And much more...

Memoirs of a Happy Failure is a fascinating glimpse - drawn from the caverns of memory - into the life of one of contemporary Catholicism’s most compelling minds. At once bold and vulnerable, it is the story of courage, faith, and the power of one person’s witness to transform the world.

©2014 Alice von Hildebrand (P)2022 Saint Benedict Press

stand firm on truth

I loved how her story spoke to me and the similarities I could make. What a wonderful women!

Could not stop listening…

This was a most exciting listen! I highly recommend it as proof that evangelization happens when it’s not supposed to in an environment hostile to truth. God wins. He always does.

Courageous faith from Hitler's Europe to Professor at Secular College

it stunned me that teaching basic philosophy in 1950s ran headlong into "woke"... Had no idea relativism a stranglehold so early, Hitler didn't show them that theory outcome?
This truly is a profile of faith and courage that allowed her the strength to draw on that faith daily and not back down from the systems arrayed against her. Her stories of students were touching.

Wonderfull All Around

I was looking for an Alice or Dietrich Von Hildebrand book to listen to and chose this one because the narrator was easy to listen to. The book was so engaging, and somehow timeless.. we appear to deal with the same issues and enemies today as she dealt with 50 years ago. I finished it in one day. Great read!

Inspirational and Enlightening Life

A peek at a life well lived during very interesting times... thank you Mrs vonHildebrand