Scan barcode
rochellegermano's review against another edition
4.0
For anyone with an Italian-American background or an interest in that part of history. A wonderful account of one family's struggle at the turn of the 20th century.
jesslolsen's review against another edition
4.0
I love reading books that are based on true events - enough history for me to learn who other societies lived, but enough fiction to keep my imagination on fire. Elizabeth Street was a perfect combination of both of these - I loved hearing about the lives of immigrants in New York, and the story of Giovanna's strength and love for her family was heart-warming.
At first I was a little confused by the flash-forwards in the story, but once I stopped expecting this to follow the flow of a typical novel, I enjoyed the random twist, turns and jumps a lot more.
At first I was a little confused by the flash-forwards in the story, but once I stopped expecting this to follow the flow of a typical novel, I enjoyed the random twist, turns and jumps a lot more.
monica4782's review against another edition
5.0
Beautiful, just beautiful
Every family has its stories and most of them are fascinating. This story is beautiful, heart breaking, and inspirational. Giovanna was an incredible woman who suffered a lifetime of pain and yet she persevered. They don't make women like this anymore. I was reminded of my own grandmother. I really enjoyed this book and I'll always remember Giovanna's strength.
Every family has its stories and most of them are fascinating. This story is beautiful, heart breaking, and inspirational. Giovanna was an incredible woman who suffered a lifetime of pain and yet she persevered. They don't make women like this anymore. I was reminded of my own grandmother. I really enjoyed this book and I'll always remember Giovanna's strength.
wulfhorstmom's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
2.75
duparker's review against another edition
2.0
I didn't find the autobiographical frame work telling this story to be too inviting. It wasn't bad, but it didn't have a flow to it that made me wasn't to devour the book. Overall the lack of a prominent story was a drag, and although I read it for the early New York atmosphere, which read delivered, I had hopes to really get into the story itself. This didn't happen.
nancyalligood's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.0
ktaylor1164's review against another edition
I accidentally brushed the stars and now it won't let me return them to neutral, but I haven't actually rated this book yet.
quiltmom14's review against another edition
3.0
Actually a 3.5. Interesting Historical not-so-fiction since it’s about the author’s family. Stories of immigrants who’ve come through Ellis have so many similarities - regardless of what group of immigrants is being highlighted. Enjoyed and recommend.
jennie_cole's review against another edition
3.0
I liked to story but found the larger era scenes pointless when it comes to telling to essential story. The first few times we flashed forward I was utterly confused on there purpose and how they connected to the turn of the century story that is the essence of the book.