I thoroughly enjoyed this collection of family memories. I read it slowly, savouring each vignette of rural and family life. I could relate to many of these stories, as I come from a rural background as well. I can’t pick a favourite, but in Rollerskating in the House, I resonated with the phrase: “I decided then and there that I’d never marry a farmer.” Yes, I recall that decision too. The story, Barns, is wonderful and sad at the same time. I love old barns, and the author’s description took me right back. Unfortunately, they are disappearing..
Joy Kidney uses all the senses in her writing. We Brake For Lilacs evoked the scent of lilac bushes on our farm. Writing about the taste of her mother’s potato salad, recipe included, raises the age-old question, “Why does mine never taste quite as good as Mom’s?”
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I’ve visited a War Memorial Cemetery in Europe, and although our family has never had to endure the pain of losing a loved one in a war, it still affected me deeply. The author lost not one but three uncles in WWII. My heart broke reading about that. But by writing about them, she has ensured their memory lives on.
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This is a book I’ll read again as there is so much to it. Whether reflecting on the past, the relationship of sisters, or her favourite tree, the author has shown her writing prowess. Well done, Joy!
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Reasons I enjoyed this book: Easy-to-read, entertaining, inspirational, original, realistic
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Darlene Foster
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Growing up on a ranch near Medicine Hat, Alberta, Canada, Darlene Foster dreamt of writing, traveling the world, and meeting interesting people. She also believed in making her dreams come true. It’s no surprise she’s now the award-winning author of Amanda Travels, a children’s adventure series featuring a spunky twelve-year-old who loves to travel to unique places. Readers of all ages enjoy following Amanda as she unravels one mystery after another..
When not traveling herself, Darlene divides her time between the west coast of Canada and the Costa Blanca, Spain with her husband and entertaining rescue dogs, Dot and Lia. Please check out her website and her Amazon Author Page.
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I’ve enjoyed her Amanda books and sent some to granddaughter Kate! Here’s my earlier post about some of these delightful books.
Another wonderful and well-deserved review, Joy!
Thank you, Gail!
Thanks, Joy, for featuring my review of your wonderful book. I meant every word. xo
Bless you, Darlene!
“Why does mine never taste as good as Mom’s?” How many siblings have asked that same question over the years?😊
Isn’t that the truth! (Well, except for my family since my sister doesn’t cook!)
My sentiments exactly! Congratulations, Joy! Sharing to help spread the word.
Bless you, Liz!
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I agree with all the reasons Darlene has written while recommending this book. Congratulations Joy.
Thank you so much, Balroop!
This is an excellent summary of your book, Joy. Kudos to Darlene for endorsing it. 🙂
Thank you so much, Nancy!
It’s wonderful that your book got such a great review from Darlene Foster, Joy! I’m glad you posted it.
Tim, thank you so much, and for sharing it on X!