Review: Grandma Had A Heart of Gold: The Bruners Come To America
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 03 29, 2014
I am an immigrant.I Live In ChileI can personally relate to the story of her family's history shared by author Becky Corwin-Adams. It is a fascinating story that I knew I would like almost as soon as I read these words: (quote) "Although she lived frugally and didn't have many earthly possessions, Grandma had a heart of gold." (end of quote)With enthusiasm, I delved into this book. It's a fast read, about 30 minutes. This is due just as much to length as it is to enthusiasm. I enjoyed this book thoroughly, and came to the end so very quickly. I believe the author has done a fine job in presenting the genealogical background, complete with photos confirming the evidence of a meticulous search for evidence. There can be no doubt that this book is the result of long scholarly research of primary and secondary sources, which is commendable.If there is any sense of "I wanted more", it is because the author does not endeavour to provide the reader with a fictionalised account of her family. It is plainly evident that she desired this book to be what it is, the story of her family's origins, and not a work of historical fiction. I applaud that authorial decision on her part. In a work such as this one, the temptation to glorify the good and reduce or even eliminate the bitter parts of the story is hard to resist. Yet when we read, "Grandma had a heart of gold", in the dedication of the book, after being first told that she didn't have "many earthly possessions", then we can rest assured about the veracity of the story. This is the basis for my 5 star rating of this book, its veracity, thoroughness, and authenticity. Highly recommended for young and old alike.Reviewed by Thomas Jerome BakerAuthor ofHow to Coach A Debate Team