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The historical background given in the Foreword gives strength to the story by laying a foundation of the origin of the characters’ customs and beliefs. It helps the reader to understand the whys of the families’ experiences, including the important reasons for immigrating. The voyage itself shows what desperate families would endure to have a better life. The story is full of fascinating facts. The author’s writing creates huge emotional responses to his suffering at his family’s actions and the family’s dysfunctions. It is powerful writing that will remain with a reader. His scenes are visual, and the dialogue of violence is piercing. The family tree and other sketches throughout complement the story as do the photos. The title is eye­ catching and clever for describing the inner story.

This book is exemplary in its choice of topic or theme of the story. It is unique but still has strong appeal for most readers in its intended genre. If the book is fiction or narrative nonfiction, the book is well plotted. If the book is poetry or prescriptive nonfiction, there is a cohesive theme or delivery of information. 

“Awards Judge”

This review from “Judge, 32nd Annual Writer’s Digest Self-Published Book Award”