This Is Us! Growing Up With Humour by Sheila and Corinne Deitch is more than just a memoir—it’s a heartfelt family project. The book serves as a collection of stories, carefully crafted to document the history of the Deitch family, beginning with Sheila’s parents. The authors present their family’s journey much like a photo album, filled with vivid descriptions and personal anecdotes that bring each family member to life. Throughout their narrative, they capture the essence of familial ups and downs, reminding readers that laughter remains the best remedy in the face of life’s challenges.

The idea of preserving family genealogy holds a special place for many, particularly for older generations. It’s a noble endeavor to document one’s family legacy for the benefit of future generations. Not everyone has the privilege of knowing their roots, but the Deitch family is fortunate to have a matriarch dedicated to compiling their history through personal photos and memories. Reading through the memoir, I found myself with the Deitch family. The charm comes from the obvious love and dedication Sheila and Corinne have poured into preserving their family’s legacy. Their passion for their roots is contagious. For example, Sheila’s recounting of her parents’ lives is tender and filled with the kind of details that make family history come alive—like the stories of her father Sam’s positivity and generosity, and her mother Betty’s struggles with depression. These moments paint a vivid picture of the family’s dynamics and provide context for the generations that follow. The memoir may pose challenges for readers unfamiliar with the Deitch family. At times, the narrative introduces snippets of information without immediate explanation, which can be frustrating. For instance, in chapter one, the authors mention, “More about the name Winston in a later story,” yet it takes several chapters before the significance of this name change is clarified. This delay in providing context leaves readers in suspense, sometimes without resolution.

This Is Us! Growing Up With Humour is a labor of love that will resonate most with those who have a deep interest in genealogy or personal family histories. This book is a touching tribute to the Deitch family’s journey through the years. If you enjoy diving into the intricacies of family life, this memoir offers a heartfelt glimpse into one family’s past.

Pages: 282 | ASIN : B0D46RBY4F