Blog Archives
Better Be Home When The Streetlights Come On
Better Be Home When the Streetlights Come On: Remembering the Summer of 1963 by Ron Baklarz provides an evocative journey into the lives of Jack and his teenage companions during the vibrant era of the 1960s. This narrative, which can best be described as a fictional biography, is rooted in the lively exploits of these young lads, all set against the backdrop of Braddock, Pennsylvania, following their academic year at St. Brendan Catholic School.
Caught in the tumultuous throes of adolescence, Jack, along with his inseparable friends Brain and Chief, grapple with their increasing curiosity. Whether it’s dodging the intimidating Buster or embarking on secret escapades their parents should remain oblivious to, their summer is nothing short of eventful. From spirited accounts of their Catholic school experiences to their eager anticipations of the Boy Scout camp, their tales encompass the universal thrills of teenage years – the intrigue surrounding girls, firearms, fireworks, and camping adventures.
Baklarz does an admirable job of immersing readers in the 1960s, interweaving the narrative with cultural and historical references pertinent to the era. Vivid episodes, such as a delightful picnic escapade with their mothers or a daring attempt at firearm smuggling, consistently engage the reader.
While the novel’s focus remains sharply on 1963, there are moments when I feel the pacing feels slightly rushed, making it a tad challenging to trace the connectivity between certain events. I think a deeper dive into the perspectives of the supporting cast would have further enriched the tapestry of this story. While the extensive detailing of historical events is informative, its relevance to the central narrative occasionally feels overstated.
Better Be Home When the Streetlights Come On promises a delightful read for those with an affinity for tales that blur the lines between fact and fiction and who relish a trip down memory lane.
Pages: 225 | ASIN : B0CG7KF43V
The Life And Times Of Henry J, And Elsie Flushie Fuhrman
Embark upon a heartfelt journey through the engaging narrative presented in The Life and Times of Henry J. and Elsie Flusche Fuhrman. It is a captivating book that weaves the intimate tales of a couple whose stories gracefully traverse almost an entire century, from 1904 to 1986. Crafted with love and meticulous attention to detail by their children, Coralee Fuhrman Pulte and Alvin M. Fuhrman, this 1986 compilation bestows upon its readers an enchanting blend of personal history and collective memory reminiscent of bedtime stories shared by doting grandparents.
Henry and Elsie’s narratives delicately meander through diverse settings, taking readers from the American heartlands of Lindsay and Iowa to the historically rich landscapes of Germany, embedding them in a rich tapestry of experiences and familial connections that span generations and geographical boundaries. Elsie, an intriguing character who witnessed the evolution of nearly seven generations, offers a poignant account starting from the tender moments of courtship and marriage through the trials and jubilations of raising their six children and concludes with an introspective look at her own childhood, marked by resilience in facing life’s challenges, such as her early loss of hearing.
In a contrastingly unique narrative style, Henry’s chronicle, constructed through meticulously transcribed interviews—owing to his illness—gifts readers a profoundly personal glimpse into his childhood, cherished familial memories, and the intriguing interplay of cultures experienced by the family. The couple’s German descent is brought to life, not only through vividly recollected traditions and aphorisms but also through a beautiful array of translated German poetry, which concludes the book, offering a poetic finale that was deeply cherished by Henry and his kin.
The Life and Times of Henry J. and Elsie Flusche Fuhrman by Brian Toung offers a biographical account as well as an immersive experience into the lives of a couple who navigated through times of war and peace, from the rigors of intensive farming to the emotional tumult of sending sons to the army. This splendid piece of literature is recommended, particularly for those interested in American history and the personal stories woven into its fabric. The Fuhrmans’ story is more than a chronicle; it’s a warm invitation into a world where every memory, from the mundane to the monumental, is treasured and celebrated.
Pages 235
Augusta
Augusta is a beautiful mix of fiction and nonfiction anecdotes about a tenacious woman working to keep her family afloat in the early 1900s. Based on the author’s grandmother and family stories, Augusta tells the tale of a young farm girl married off at thirteen, abandoned, and then remarried to another abusive man. Her second husband, Ottis, is fired, leaving Augusta to be their family’s sole provider. While the storm of calamity continues to affect her family, Augusta must make the hardest decision of her life: whether to keep her youngest, Lottie, or allow her to be adopted by a wealthy family.
Augusta is a heart-wrenching novel centering on the unique circumstances of a woman in a time period where dependency on marriage to a man for survival was commonplace. Augusta represents a silent yet resilient generation of women who frugally kept their families fed and clothed throughout poverty-stricken years. Many of these women turned to each other and created pockets of communities and villages to ensure mutual aid. The writing captured this well. Augusta’s pain is clear, but so is her love for those around her. She was forced into a marriage and motherhood at an extremely young age and thus relied on her community to guide her through adulthood. Her sacrifices became an important parable for those of us who live in the present.
I enjoyed how the author filled in some gaps to complete Augusta’s story. The story of Al and Angie was particularly touching. They served as a silver lining and restored optimism back into the story. I also liked the historically accurate descriptions of appliances, money, and the like. Augusta’s wide-eyed incredulity towards appliances is interesting to witness. While modern readers will be interested in the simplicity of it, Augusta is impressed by what it can do. In a lot of ways, readers can still feel a connection to Augusta amidst the decades of distance.
Augusta is an essential story for all readers and will continue to be important for years to come.
Pages: 199 | ASIN : B0BQ9KLK2K
I Want To Assist Others With Healing
Jigsaw follows a young girl growing up in a dysfunctional home who, at 17, is married off to an abusive man and is unable to gain help to escape the situation. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration was to assist others so that they also can heal in many ways, be journaling or writing about the journey in this world and the opportunities we have to grow and heal ourselves.
This is a deeply emotional story told with sensitivity and awareness of the topics covered. Was there anything from your own life that you put into the characters in your novel?
It was mainly about me, my publisher knew I had a story, and it was emotionally complex, so advised me to write it as 3rd party.
This story talks about childhood trauma and the lasting effects it has on women and the struggle they face to escape their situations and build a life for themselves. What is one thing that people point out after reading your book that surprises you?
You Learn so much about their private lives; what I know for sure is deep trauma may not leave marks on our bodies but in the heart and mind.
What is the next novel that you are working on, and when will that be available?
I am writing Tapestry book two (2) of the trilogy the storyteller; this was inspired by my female descendants, as they come together from the 16th century to the 22nd century. To tell me their stories, very paranormal and poignant to Jigsaw.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
As a young child, her one thought was to escape the abuse from the ones she should trust. Her mum with her deep angry emotional trauma and her sibling, who would quite happily dispose of her existence. No one can help her, why? Because it’s secreted away inside the family home. Married off at seventeen to a narcissistic alcoholic to appease the demands of the cult her family belong to. Cassie soon discovers no one cares, not the cult leaders, her family or the police. In the late 1900s it’s termed as a domestic dispute. Poverty of mind and body is a everyday occurrence in this naive child’s life. Knowing to escape this life there are two ways, the first to imitate the maternal women folk in her family before her by suicide, or by running as far away as possible. But where?
Jigsaw is not only an escape story, a love story, and a story of modern-day sadistic insurgency of the patriarchal system. It’s an awakening for Cassie as she fights for her rights as a woman. Jigsaw is a story of a woman rebirthing in all ways to be who she is today. It’s also a paranormal story that cannot be explained nor be navigated.
Jigsaw
Jigsaw by Kez Wickham St George is an engrossing and emotionally charged narrative that delves into the deeply concealed world of parental childhood trauma. At the heart of this tale is Cassie, the protagonist, who endures a life riddled with abuse and neglect within the confines of her family home, desperately yearning for love and acceptance. Compelled into a marriage with a narcissistic alcoholic as a result of her family’s cult-like obligations, Cassie is faced with the bleak choice of either succumbing to despair or embarking on a courageous journey to discover her true self.
Throughout the narrative, the author skillfully weaves themes of escape, love, resilience, and the patriarchal system’s cruel oppression while exploring the enigmatic paranormal aspects that entwine themselves in Cassie’s life. Jigsaw is a poignant and gripping masterpiece, adeptly unraveling the profound and lasting impact of childhood trauma on the protagonist, Cassie. With great sensitivity, the author navigates through Cassie’s harrowing experiences, revealing her struggles and inner strength in a deeply moving manner that resonates with readers on a profound emotional level.
The story delves into the intricate complexities of familial relationships, the enduring consequences of abuse, and the societal pressures that ensnare victims within their suffering. The incorporation of paranormal elements adds an intriguing and enchanting layer to the plot, skillfully intermingling with the profound emotional journey of the story. Cassie’s unwavering resilience and determination to liberate herself from the clutches of her past exemplify her transformation into a formidable and empowered woman.
The storytelling is nothing short of captivating, and the characters are rendered with remarkable depth, making them relatable and genuine. Through vividly painted scenes and skillful prose, the author effortlessly evokes powerful emotions, effortlessly keeping readers enthralled from start to finish.
Beneath the surface of this enthralling tale lies a profound message of self-discovery and empowerment, which leaves a lasting impact on the reader. Jigsaw serves as a thought-provoking and evocative testament to the concealed struggles many individuals endure behind closed doors. It serves as a powerful reminder of the significance of compassion, understanding, and support for those who have faced childhood traumas.
This unique blend of personal growth, paranormal intrigue, and societal critique renders Jigsaw an unforgettable reading experience that compels readers to reevaluate their perspectives on life and the struggles others face.
Pages: 389 | ASIN : B0C6V4983M
Transformation Summer
Transformation Summer offers a charming yet poignant exploration of adolescence, wrapped up in the heartwarming story of Seth’s transformative summer journey. This narrative weaves a masterful tapestry of youthful angst and discovery, inviting readers into Seth’s world, which is both deeply personal and universally relatable.
After a family rupture, Seth’s mother seeks a fresh start, bringing the 16-year-old along for an unexpected adventure at Transformation camp. Initially grappling with the impending divorce, Seth reluctantly adjusts to the camp lifestyle. But, as the summer unfolds, he develops profound, tangible bonds with his camp companions: Diana, radiant and captivating; Rafe, the charismatic leader; Funk, Mishy, and Grace, his romantic interest, along with Patrick, Morgana, and a group of young girls who formed an inseparable alliance.
At its heart, Transformation Summer embodies the beauty of unity and personal growth, illustrating how connections can flourish in the most unexpected places. Seth’s journey of understanding and embracing this principle is a testament to the book’s central theme.
The integration of setting and period detail is noteworthy, lending a nostalgic and whimsical ambiance to the Transformation camp. With the narrative unfolding in the 80s, the nuances of handwritten letters, the infancy of the internet, and contemporary societal concerns are intricately woven into the storyline, offering a rich tapestry that reads like a cherished diary rediscovered from a time capsule.
Seth, our protagonist, showcases a depth of introspection that will resonate with readers across all stages of life. His navigation through the disconcerting realities of divorce and parental aging are delicately handled, with no quick fix but a gradual acceptance of the complexities of adulthood. Interestingly, it is the children of Transformation camp who embody true freedom, offering a refreshing perspective on the paradox of adult liberation.
Each character significantly enhances the narrative, particularly the more prominent characters like Morgana and Grace, whose emotional depth is particularly touching. Even the supporting characters contribute meaningful layers to the narrative, though a deeper exploration of Seth’s relationship with his mother would have enriched the storyline further.
Transformation Summer is a beautifully crafted narrative that captures the essence of coming of age with sensitivity and insight. It’s a commendable read for anyone drawn to adolescent growth and transformation exploration.
Pages: 258 | ISBN : 1639888462
Journey Into Mexico
Set in the tumultuous 1830s Mexico, Journey into Mexico by Alex Grand is a captivating historical fiction graphic novel woven around the tale of the superhero El Fuego. As political strife and dark forces threaten to undermine peace and sow the seeds of injustice, El Fuego rises to fight for justice and freedom of choice, empowered by the fire gods of life and creation.
The nonstop action in El Fuego’s battles against deadly enemies from Mexican mythology, powerfully illustrated by Sebastian Guidobono, keeps readers on the edge of their seats. As a heroic champion of the people, El Fuego fights for justice and stands tall against the unyielding hordes of evil. Taking inspiration from classic comic book heroes of World War Two, this thrilling adventure is steeped in action with an altruistic and patriotic core. The transformation of Tijax Tabares, the young boy who discovers the power of the old gods, into the hero El Fuego whenever the innocent are threatened adds a powerful quest for truth. The war between gods directly impacts the lives of people on earth, making El Fuego’s journey impactful and highly engaging.
Journey into Mexico is an immensely enjoyable superhero adventure that weaves together the history, mythology, and enchanting culture of Mexico. Cultural representation, excellence in storytelling, and incredible art make this graphic novel a must-have for readers who love superhero adventures, history, and world culture.
Containing fantasy violence, blood, and mild language, this story is suitable for readers 12 and up who cannot get enough heroic action stories. Journey into Mexico takes readers on an exciting venture into the world of heroes and mythology. As El Fuego continues to fight for justice and truth in his beloved Mexico, readers will eagerly await the next installment of his adventures.
Pages: 102 | ASIN: B08WRCBVZV
To Help Just One
In To Help Just One, author Thusitha L. Perera presents a refreshing and insightful perspective on mental health discussions that frequently permeate public discourse. Through skillful storytelling, Perera offers valuable guidance on navigating the complexities of mental health challenges.
The narrative is structured around three engaging stories centered on the lives of Jonathan, Lawrence, and Tegan. As readers journey through the characters’ formative years, Perera expertly interweaves their individual experiences, illustrating how they confront various mental health issues. The book addresses a range of weighty topics, including addiction, toxic work environments, and the significance of support groups, with thought-provoking nuance and sensitivity.
To Help Just One champions the power of individual resilience in overcoming mental health challenges while emphasizing the critical importance of seeking help from others. The author employs clear, impactful language that facilitates an effortless connection between readers and the characters, as well as their struggles. There are times when the book proceeds at a slow pace, as Perera’s writing dwell in introspective moments. This adds depth to the characters, giving readers time to reflect as well. Those who appreciate delving into the inner thoughts and emotions of characters will find the author’s writing style immensely rewarding. Perera’s vivid and immersive descriptions contribute to a rich reading experience. The prose is detailed and evocative, albeit occasionally overwhelming, and effectively conveys the lived experiences of individuals grappling with mental health challenges.
To Help Just One is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the intricacies of mental health challenges. The book leaves a lasting impact, instilling in readers a profound appreciation for individual determination and the transformative power of reaching out for help.
Pages: 232 | ASIN : B0BN5FLT73
LITERARY TITAN 