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Lost on Cherry Street
Peggy O’Rourke, forced with her family to leave Ireland during the Potato Famine, is the only one to survive the treacherous Atlantic crossing on the infamous coffin ships to America. She journeys from the great city port to the village of Sing Sing, New York where she starts to build her own future. James, one of Peggy’s two sons, grows up to become a keeper at the notorious Sing Sing Prison. His actions there bring disgrace upon the family and set in motion the mysterious disappearance of his 5-year-old daughter. In his grief, James rules his family like a prison guard, burdening the life of his eldest son, who spends his adulthood searching for his lost sister. Lost on Cherry Street follows three generations in their search to build a new life of prosperity in America against the greatest tragedy any family can face. Will the truth bring answers of comfort or pain?
375 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 25, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
April 15, 2024
In his debut historical fiction novel, "Lost on Cherry Street", Jack Donahue traces the lives of three generations of the Callaghan family from Tipperary, Ireland to the Hudson Valley and lower Manhattan of New York. From attempting to escape the Irish Great Hunger (potato famine), to the development of Lower Manhattan under the influence of Tammany Hall, through the Civil War period and the Great Depression we learn about the successes and failures of the Callaghans.
Considering the title and the cover, the reader cannot help but wonder who is lost? Who is this young girl? Where is she? Why aren’t there other people around to help her? On the other hand, does “lost” refer to other ways of being adrift besides physical ones? Our characters have their share of losses as they cross the Atlantic, enter an unknown land and strive to survive in their new country. However, through time, some also lose sight of their values and beliefs. This leads to actions and decisions that all members of their families cannot support. In addition to these, loss of self-worth can have a devastating effect on anyone in this family.
Donahue craftfully demonstrates how his characters’ actions can reward or haunt them throughout their lives and the lives of their successors. Relationships forged during the mid-1850s still affected their family in the 1930s. Beginning with Stephen Callaghan’s journey to America to accept a job from Matthew Flaherty, a United States Congressman representing New York City’s Lower East Side, Donahue shows how every action has a consequence, be it positive or negative. His family and their descendants make an impact on New York City and upstate New York. How then, can we learn in the prologue that his grandson, Jim, is regarded “less important than a family dog.” Powerful language to demonstrate how invisible he was, but it raises the question, “Why?” Is Jim totally responsible for his situation in life? What led to this invisibility? Can he escape this oppressive state and raise himself? Who will help him and will he accept any assistance?
To help his readers feel like they are a part of the narrative, the author uses illustrative and figurative language. We can picture ourselves listening to the narrator as he relates how Stephen’s son, James, proposed to Nellie.
“As the sea laps the shore of Killala Bay
And pink bells of heather peal in the autumn sun
I see her eyes mirror the bluest sky
As heavenly angels whisper, she is the one”
We can hear the waves gently licking the shore and the wind gently moving the heather as we smell the salty air.
The Callaghan’s saga is engrossing. Searching for answers to questions as we read, we are propelled to read more and more. We become absorbed with this family and those with whom they come in contact, rooting for some members and hoping that others get their due. The historical setting and keen attention to authenticity of the locales and its cultures provides a captivating background. "Lost on Cherry Street" is a must read for those interested in family sagas, Irish immigration, and New York City’s Lower East Side in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Considering the title and the cover, the reader cannot help but wonder who is lost? Who is this young girl? Where is she? Why aren’t there other people around to help her? On the other hand, does “lost” refer to other ways of being adrift besides physical ones? Our characters have their share of losses as they cross the Atlantic, enter an unknown land and strive to survive in their new country. However, through time, some also lose sight of their values and beliefs. This leads to actions and decisions that all members of their families cannot support. In addition to these, loss of self-worth can have a devastating effect on anyone in this family.
Donahue craftfully demonstrates how his characters’ actions can reward or haunt them throughout their lives and the lives of their successors. Relationships forged during the mid-1850s still affected their family in the 1930s. Beginning with Stephen Callaghan’s journey to America to accept a job from Matthew Flaherty, a United States Congressman representing New York City’s Lower East Side, Donahue shows how every action has a consequence, be it positive or negative. His family and their descendants make an impact on New York City and upstate New York. How then, can we learn in the prologue that his grandson, Jim, is regarded “less important than a family dog.” Powerful language to demonstrate how invisible he was, but it raises the question, “Why?” Is Jim totally responsible for his situation in life? What led to this invisibility? Can he escape this oppressive state and raise himself? Who will help him and will he accept any assistance?
To help his readers feel like they are a part of the narrative, the author uses illustrative and figurative language. We can picture ourselves listening to the narrator as he relates how Stephen’s son, James, proposed to Nellie.
“As the sea laps the shore of Killala Bay
And pink bells of heather peal in the autumn sun
I see her eyes mirror the bluest sky
As heavenly angels whisper, she is the one”
We can hear the waves gently licking the shore and the wind gently moving the heather as we smell the salty air.
The Callaghan’s saga is engrossing. Searching for answers to questions as we read, we are propelled to read more and more. We become absorbed with this family and those with whom they come in contact, rooting for some members and hoping that others get their due. The historical setting and keen attention to authenticity of the locales and its cultures provides a captivating background. "Lost on Cherry Street" is a must read for those interested in family sagas, Irish immigration, and New York City’s Lower East Side in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
April 15, 2024
Lost on Cherry Street is a multi-generational historical drama centered on one Irish American immigrant family, The fictional story is intertwined with several actual events, including the Great Famine, passage on coffin ships, draft riots during the Civil War, corruption at Tammany Hall, and prohibition.
Donahue is a lyrical writer whose elegant descriptions of people and places added greatly to the story. For example, the One Horse Tavern “has a rustic charm with sawdust sprinkled on the uneven wood plank floor, a potbelly stove, and an assortment of plain, mismatched chairs butted up against random square, rectangular, and round pinewood tables.” I could certainly see the tavern and could almost smell the atmosphere.
His descriptions of characters are equally masterful. A key character has “a prominent aquiline nose, and deep creases flaring out from the nose to the corner of his lips. Lips that were so thin they gave the appearance of being pencil drawn. His skin was coarsely pockmarked with the marbleized grayish coloration of pigeon droppings.” Further, Donahue writes in the vernacular of his characters, using phrases and dialects that would be familiar in that time and place, so I could not only “see” his characters, I could “hear” them clearly.
Donahue’s research is impressive. Not only did he research events, he also researched the places he cites. Like many immigrants, the family settles in New York City on Cherry Street which still exists. It is surrounded by the streets and parks that are named in the story, making it easy to follow the journeys of the many characters that inhabit the book. Further, there are several Lenape characters whose stories are intertwined with the Irish family’s, and homage is paid to the Lenape by folding them into the book. The Lenape originally landed at the site of what is now Corlear Hooks Park, adjacent to Cherry Street, and named in a pivotal event in the book.
Lost on Cherry Street is sprinkled with songs and poems, no surprise since Donahue is a published poet, but the songs and poems lend themselves to the rhythm and lyricism of the book.
The irish story is the American story, full of love and loss, triumph and tragedy, and sorrow and joy. You will not be disappointed in this well-written, well-paced, and well-researched story.
Donahue is a lyrical writer whose elegant descriptions of people and places added greatly to the story. For example, the One Horse Tavern “has a rustic charm with sawdust sprinkled on the uneven wood plank floor, a potbelly stove, and an assortment of plain, mismatched chairs butted up against random square, rectangular, and round pinewood tables.” I could certainly see the tavern and could almost smell the atmosphere.
His descriptions of characters are equally masterful. A key character has “a prominent aquiline nose, and deep creases flaring out from the nose to the corner of his lips. Lips that were so thin they gave the appearance of being pencil drawn. His skin was coarsely pockmarked with the marbleized grayish coloration of pigeon droppings.” Further, Donahue writes in the vernacular of his characters, using phrases and dialects that would be familiar in that time and place, so I could not only “see” his characters, I could “hear” them clearly.
Donahue’s research is impressive. Not only did he research events, he also researched the places he cites. Like many immigrants, the family settles in New York City on Cherry Street which still exists. It is surrounded by the streets and parks that are named in the story, making it easy to follow the journeys of the many characters that inhabit the book. Further, there are several Lenape characters whose stories are intertwined with the Irish family’s, and homage is paid to the Lenape by folding them into the book. The Lenape originally landed at the site of what is now Corlear Hooks Park, adjacent to Cherry Street, and named in a pivotal event in the book.
Lost on Cherry Street is sprinkled with songs and poems, no surprise since Donahue is a published poet, but the songs and poems lend themselves to the rhythm and lyricism of the book.
The irish story is the American story, full of love and loss, triumph and tragedy, and sorrow and joy. You will not be disappointed in this well-written, well-paced, and well-researched story.
April 7, 2024
This novel of historical fiction is a story of lives lost, lives destroyed, and lives lived fully. Lives intertwined in a beautiful tapestry. We journey with those sometimes enigmatic lives from Devil's Bit in Ireland to the Devil's lair on Cherry Street. The journey is arduous, at times tumultuous. Tragedy and the ever-present specter of death seem to lurk around every corner the Callaghans turn. As with all journeys, this one, too, begins with a first step. A step that Stephen Callaghan takes to board the ship "Swan". Unbeknownst to Stephen, a feisty Peggy O'Rourke had also taken a first step. Hers would take a circuitous route that, nevertheless, would lead her to Cherry Street. And to Stephen.
Upon her arrival in Ossining, New York, Peggy made a lasting impression upon Matthew Flaherty, a powerful congressman and Tammany Hall leader. Years later, she finds herself under his employ, along with Stephen Callaghan, already entrenched in Flaherty's profitable New York City real estate enterprise, building tenements for the Irish and other immigrant groups.
Stephen and Peggy overcome a tempestuous working relationship by falling in love, marrying, and rearing the next generation of Callaghans.
What follows is a brief period of prosperity and peace, interrupted by a series of intriguing and mysterious encounters with strange fellow employees, Lenapes and mobsters - involving murder, revenge and the disappearance of the two five-year-old daughters of Stephen, and Peggy's eldest son, James Callaghan, a prison keeper at the notorious Sing Sing prision.
Throughout the journey, each piece of the Callaghan family puzzle is deftly placed. And although the Callaghans travel in Spartan conditions, the reader's journey is opulent and rewarding. Along the way, there is a steady diet of rich vocabulary, vivid images, and precise prose. We become the Callaghans, celebrating their infrequent successes and suffering their myriad pains. Mournful that the journey has ended yet eagerly awaiting the next time the author will invite us along.
Upon her arrival in Ossining, New York, Peggy made a lasting impression upon Matthew Flaherty, a powerful congressman and Tammany Hall leader. Years later, she finds herself under his employ, along with Stephen Callaghan, already entrenched in Flaherty's profitable New York City real estate enterprise, building tenements for the Irish and other immigrant groups.
Stephen and Peggy overcome a tempestuous working relationship by falling in love, marrying, and rearing the next generation of Callaghans.
What follows is a brief period of prosperity and peace, interrupted by a series of intriguing and mysterious encounters with strange fellow employees, Lenapes and mobsters - involving murder, revenge and the disappearance of the two five-year-old daughters of Stephen, and Peggy's eldest son, James Callaghan, a prison keeper at the notorious Sing Sing prision.
Throughout the journey, each piece of the Callaghan family puzzle is deftly placed. And although the Callaghans travel in Spartan conditions, the reader's journey is opulent and rewarding. Along the way, there is a steady diet of rich vocabulary, vivid images, and precise prose. We become the Callaghans, celebrating their infrequent successes and suffering their myriad pains. Mournful that the journey has ended yet eagerly awaiting the next time the author will invite us along.
April 23, 2024
Jack Donahue’s debut historical novel is a sweeping saga of the Callaghan Family, which transports us from the blighted potato years of 1840s Ireland to the start of the 1930s Great Depression America. As Peggy O’Rourke, who becomes part of the first generation when she marries Stephen Callaghan, emigrates to America, we experience the hardships, trials, and privations that she and the other immigrants endure in their quest for a better life, both onboard the over-crowded, disease-ridden ship, and as they settle into tenement life in NYC.
The family’s constant struggle to survive in their newfound home is reflected in the rough & tumble existence of the 2nd and 3rd generations of Callaghan children. The vivid descriptions of their successes and failures, written in the lyrical dialogue of their Irish forebears, carries the reader along through the American Civil War, Prohibition, and the corrupt politics of Tammany Hall.
Mr. Donahue’s novel is beautifully written and it is evident that both the Irish and American geography and history have been painstakingly researched. An engrossing read altogether!
The family’s constant struggle to survive in their newfound home is reflected in the rough & tumble existence of the 2nd and 3rd generations of Callaghan children. The vivid descriptions of their successes and failures, written in the lyrical dialogue of their Irish forebears, carries the reader along through the American Civil War, Prohibition, and the corrupt politics of Tammany Hall.
Mr. Donahue’s novel is beautifully written and it is evident that both the Irish and American geography and history have been painstakingly researched. An engrossing read altogether!
April 9, 2024
A bittersweet saga of several generations of Irish men and women who sought refuge from the famine in Ireland by facing the harsh conditions of sailing to America and starting a new life. The book keeps one's interest and the characters come to life as they encounter the harsh realities as well as the joys of life in a new world. We see how each succeeding generation of the family faced differing challenges and responded - sometimes with heroic efforts and sometimes by abject failure. Several plot twists makes it difficult to put the book down as we are left wondering what will be the next hurdle to bo overcome or the next tragedy to strike. The book is set in the New York of the middle and late 19th century and early 20th century and gives on a sense of the difficulties of life for the immigrant family and the struggles to succeed. A thoroughly enjoyable read.
May 28, 2024
Lost on Cherry Street is no ordinary book. It is an understated epic! The book retells in vivid prose the rise and fall of three generations of an Irish family, whose matriarch, Peggy O'Rouke, is a woman of indomitable courage, having survived the death of her entire family while traveling to America during the Potato Famine.
I literally could not put this book down! Mr. Donohue's descriptions of the horrors of that time will keep me up at night, and his insightful observations and rendering of his characters make them feel like old friends. I laughed, cried, and had the perfect experience of being completely immersed in the world he created.
This is a great read. Don't deny yourself the pleasure of reading a book written by a master storyteller!
I literally could not put this book down! Mr. Donohue's descriptions of the horrors of that time will keep me up at night, and his insightful observations and rendering of his characters make them feel like old friends. I laughed, cried, and had the perfect experience of being completely immersed in the world he created.
This is a great read. Don't deny yourself the pleasure of reading a book written by a master storyteller!
April 11, 2024
The kind of book I enjoy reading is the interest it generates in its characters. Lost on Cherry Street accomplishes this forcefully and gracefully. Each time a character is introduced, the author immediately fleshes the character out through an adroit use of description and dialogue. This is an amazing feat since the book explores three different generations. Donahue is true to the characters, putting words in their mouth that immediately bring those characters to full life. Another strength of the book is the sense of the times that it presents, weaving believable details into the heart of the story. Again, this is a masterful feat since the action covers such a broad swath of history.
The book dragged me in immediately and kept me interested throughout.
The book dragged me in immediately and kept me interested throughout.
April 12, 2024
My favorite genre is Historical Fiction. Donahue not only includes bits of immigration from Ireland to New York onboard a death ship, but also includes the history of the difficulties for the Irish to be respected and settle into their new home. The characters brought to life the streets of New York to the woodsy country of the back hills home of Carney Callaghan (my favorite character). The Callaghan family fought to survive through struggles of loss, addiction and downright abuse. Bravo Jack Donahue on this well written and descriptive novel.
May 27, 2024
Really enjoyed this book. Even though it was fictional, it had a lot of true facts to it. I had no idea how rough it was for the Irish on their initial voyages to America. This book really touched me at times. Had me crying at the end
April 7, 2024
Lost on Cherry Street is a descriptive saga of three generations of Irish immigrants. It is a tale of their personal battles, love, faith, challenges and survival. Touched with Irish history, beautiful prose and vivid experiences it is a captivating well-told story.
April 19, 2024
This book was a page turner but also thought provoking. It touches so many topics as immigration, poverty, addiction. Although it takes place at the end of the 19th century and beginning of the 20th; the topics are relevant now in the 21st century.
Most of all it is a relatable story encompassing love, family, tragedy, oppression and greed.
I would love to read a sequel. Well done Mr. Donahue !!!
Most of all it is a relatable story encompassing love, family, tragedy, oppression and greed.
I would love to read a sequel. Well done Mr. Donahue !!!
May 13, 2024
Lost on Cherry Street is a wonderful novel based on true events and historical fiction of Irish immigrants hoping to make a better life in America. Jack Donahue’s debut novel is beautifully written and well researched. The character development and vivid descriptions reflect the author’s extraordinary talent as a writer and storyteller.
As the reader, you are taken on an incredible family journey of so many emotions including hope, love, loss, trauma, betrayal, and revenge.
Lost on Cherry Street is not only a page turner, but it will also leave an impression on you long after you close the last page.
A highly recommended book!
As the reader, you are taken on an incredible family journey of so many emotions including hope, love, loss, trauma, betrayal, and revenge.
Lost on Cherry Street is not only a page turner, but it will also leave an impression on you long after you close the last page.
A highly recommended book!
May 3, 2024
Lost on Cherry Street, Jack Donohue’s new historical novel, embarks on a tour de force examination of three generations of an Irish family’s odyssey forging out a new life in America. The Callaghan’s trials and tribulations, make for a fascinating read and are in many ways representative of all immigrants to the U.S.A. It illustrates the universality of the dream of anyone coming to America regardless of race, color or creed having a chance to make there mark.
Jack Donohue’s narrative style and impeccable research shine through and make for a meaningful and yet sometimes poignant and tragic examination of one family’s struggle to “make it”. It truly embodies the resilience and determination to make it through tough times and yet prosper. Well done, and I look forward to reading the sequel.
Jack Donohue’s narrative style and impeccable research shine through and make for a meaningful and yet sometimes poignant and tragic examination of one family’s struggle to “make it”. It truly embodies the resilience and determination to make it through tough times and yet prosper. Well done, and I look forward to reading the sequel.
April 30, 2024
A fascinating story about The Callaghan”s, an Irish American family.
Jack Donahue”s writing really brings the characters and their experiences to life. I felt their emotions of hope, love, success, as well as despair, loss, and tragedy.
This beautifully written historical fiction, had me hooked from the first page.
Jack Donahue”s writing really brings the characters and their experiences to life. I felt their emotions of hope, love, success, as well as despair, loss, and tragedy.
This beautifully written historical fiction, had me hooked from the first page.
April 21, 2024
A beautifully rich and complex story about a multi generational Irish family. This beautifully written novel had me hooked from the beginning. I love historical fiction and this book did not disappoint. Filled with complex characters and poetry weaved throughout. I fully enjoyed Jack Donahue's debut novel.
July 2, 2024
Be prepared to enter into a number of disparate cultural experiences while, at the same time, riding an emotional roller coaster of hope and despair, of golden opportunities and shattered dreams across three generations of the Callaghan family. From young Steven Callaghan’s Irish wake given by family and friends upon his departure for America to Peggy O’Rourke’s harrowing eight week journey across the Atlantic, one feels the desperation that was Ireland during the Potato Famine in the 1850s. Each finds a foothold in New York that starts to look like the American Dream. That dream, like the legendary Midas touch, becomes a nightmare played out in brilliant twists and turns of the narrative that kept this reviewer eager to find out what happened next.
With lucid prose reflecting his accurate research into Ireland and old New York, Mr. Donahue takes the reader into the nitty-gritty of each event portrayed. From the heartfelt, sometimes maudlin description of Steven’s farewell wake, to a sportscaster’s ringside report of a boxing match, to a Native American prayer chant ritual, and to a you-were-there encounter of the human wreckage on the skid row that was The Bowery of 1930s, one feels that they really know the Callaghans and, with them, taste the exuberance and joys as well as the sadness and despair of their journey in a new land. Restraining the impulse to divulge any spoilers, let me simply say that Lost on Cherry Street takes you to places where neither you nor the Callaghans themselves ever dreamed. To use an old cliché, there is a light at the end of the tunnel or, should I say, on a mountainside in Upstate New York!
With lucid prose reflecting his accurate research into Ireland and old New York, Mr. Donahue takes the reader into the nitty-gritty of each event portrayed. From the heartfelt, sometimes maudlin description of Steven’s farewell wake, to a sportscaster’s ringside report of a boxing match, to a Native American prayer chant ritual, and to a you-were-there encounter of the human wreckage on the skid row that was The Bowery of 1930s, one feels that they really know the Callaghans and, with them, taste the exuberance and joys as well as the sadness and despair of their journey in a new land. Restraining the impulse to divulge any spoilers, let me simply say that Lost on Cherry Street takes you to places where neither you nor the Callaghans themselves ever dreamed. To use an old cliché, there is a light at the end of the tunnel or, should I say, on a mountainside in Upstate New York!
January 14, 2025
Mr. Donahue has written a gripping historical novel of the experience of Irish immigrants to the United States. His realistic writing style extends to the good and the bad of the experiences of his characters. I was fascinated by the trials of the new immigrants and the variety of their responses to what they found in America.
September 11, 2024
Lost on Cherry Street by Jack Donahue is a story that draws you in from the first page. Set against the backdrop of the Irish Potato Famine and the immigrant experience in America, it’s an emotional rollercoaster. The book touches on survival, hope, and the deep struggles of an Irish family trying to find their place in a foreign land. If you're into stories that mix history with personal drama, this one is bound to keep you hooked.
The story starts with Peggy O’Rourke, who survives a treacherous journey to America during the Irish Potato Famine. It follows her son James, a man whose life as a guard at Sing Sing Prison takes a dark turn, especially after his daughter vanishes mysteriously. As the book unfolds, the O'Rourke family’s story spans three generations, revealing the personal battles they face, making you feel every twist and turn of their lives.
Jack Donahue’s writing is nothing short of beautiful. His descriptions of the Irish immigrant experience are so vivid, you can almost feel the cold Atlantic breeze or hear the bustling streets of 19th-century New York. The pace slows down in some parts, but the rich descriptions and heartfelt emotions more than make up for it. The way Donahue captures both the historical setting and the inner world of his characters is impressive.
The characters, particularly Peggy and James, feel incredibly real. You can sense Peggy’s strength as she overcomes loss after loss, and James’ guilt and regret as a father hits hard. Their emotional journeys are raw and relatable, making you care about their fate. I especially appreciated the tension within the family, which added an extra layer of complexity to the story.
The book isn’t told in a straightforward manner, which adds an element of mystery. The story jumps between timelines, but instead of feeling lost, you become more invested as the pieces start to fall into place. Although it can feel a bit slow at times, the mystery of James’ daughter’s disappearance and the generational secrets make it hard to put the book down.
The themes of Lost on Cherry Street run deep. At its core, the novel speaks about survival, identity, and the way family legacies can shape our lives, for better or worse. It tackles the weight of loss, the immigrant experience, and the emotional scars passed down through generations. These themes resonate long after you close the book.
Prepare yourself for some emotional moments. Peggy’s heartbreaking journey to America and James’ internal struggles as a father are some of the most touching parts of the book. There are scenes that will pull at your heartstrings and leave you reflecting on your own family ties. It’s a beautifully balanced mix of hope and despair that makes the emotional impact so strong.
The book’s greatest strengths are its emotional intensity and historical richness. The way Donahue brings 19th-century America and Ireland to life is remarkable. The characters, their inner battles, and the weight of their decisions stay with you long after you finish reading. There’s an authenticity to their struggles that makes the story deeply relatable.
Though I loved the book, I did find the pacing a bit slow in the middle. Some sections felt a little drawn out, and the non-linear timeline could be tricky to follow at times. But, if you’re patient, the payoff is worth it. The story’s emotional depth makes up for these small flaws, and they didn’t detract much from my overall experience.
Lost on Cherry Street really struck a chord with me. It’s not just a historical novel; it’s a story about family, identity, and the unshakable bond between generations. James’ guilt and Peggy’s resilience hit me on a personal level. The novel left me thinking about how much we inherit from our ancestors, not just in terms of history but emotions, too.
In the end, Lost on Cherry Street is a beautifully crafted novel that will resonate with readers who love family sagas and history. Despite its few slow moments, the book’s heart and authenticity shine through. If you’re looking for a story that’s emotionally rich and filled with historical depth, I highly recommend picking this one up.
#FamilyLegacy #IrishImmigration #EmotionalJourney #HistoricalFiction #MustRead
The story starts with Peggy O’Rourke, who survives a treacherous journey to America during the Irish Potato Famine. It follows her son James, a man whose life as a guard at Sing Sing Prison takes a dark turn, especially after his daughter vanishes mysteriously. As the book unfolds, the O'Rourke family’s story spans three generations, revealing the personal battles they face, making you feel every twist and turn of their lives.
Jack Donahue’s writing is nothing short of beautiful. His descriptions of the Irish immigrant experience are so vivid, you can almost feel the cold Atlantic breeze or hear the bustling streets of 19th-century New York. The pace slows down in some parts, but the rich descriptions and heartfelt emotions more than make up for it. The way Donahue captures both the historical setting and the inner world of his characters is impressive.
The characters, particularly Peggy and James, feel incredibly real. You can sense Peggy’s strength as she overcomes loss after loss, and James’ guilt and regret as a father hits hard. Their emotional journeys are raw and relatable, making you care about their fate. I especially appreciated the tension within the family, which added an extra layer of complexity to the story.
The book isn’t told in a straightforward manner, which adds an element of mystery. The story jumps between timelines, but instead of feeling lost, you become more invested as the pieces start to fall into place. Although it can feel a bit slow at times, the mystery of James’ daughter’s disappearance and the generational secrets make it hard to put the book down.
The themes of Lost on Cherry Street run deep. At its core, the novel speaks about survival, identity, and the way family legacies can shape our lives, for better or worse. It tackles the weight of loss, the immigrant experience, and the emotional scars passed down through generations. These themes resonate long after you close the book.
Prepare yourself for some emotional moments. Peggy’s heartbreaking journey to America and James’ internal struggles as a father are some of the most touching parts of the book. There are scenes that will pull at your heartstrings and leave you reflecting on your own family ties. It’s a beautifully balanced mix of hope and despair that makes the emotional impact so strong.
The book’s greatest strengths are its emotional intensity and historical richness. The way Donahue brings 19th-century America and Ireland to life is remarkable. The characters, their inner battles, and the weight of their decisions stay with you long after you finish reading. There’s an authenticity to their struggles that makes the story deeply relatable.
Though I loved the book, I did find the pacing a bit slow in the middle. Some sections felt a little drawn out, and the non-linear timeline could be tricky to follow at times. But, if you’re patient, the payoff is worth it. The story’s emotional depth makes up for these small flaws, and they didn’t detract much from my overall experience.
Lost on Cherry Street really struck a chord with me. It’s not just a historical novel; it’s a story about family, identity, and the unshakable bond between generations. James’ guilt and Peggy’s resilience hit me on a personal level. The novel left me thinking about how much we inherit from our ancestors, not just in terms of history but emotions, too.
In the end, Lost on Cherry Street is a beautifully crafted novel that will resonate with readers who love family sagas and history. Despite its few slow moments, the book’s heart and authenticity shine through. If you’re looking for a story that’s emotionally rich and filled with historical depth, I highly recommend picking this one up.
#FamilyLegacy #IrishImmigration #EmotionalJourney #HistoricalFiction #MustRead
October 17, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up.
Lost on Cherry Street captivated me from the very beginning with a girl named Peggy who is escaping Ireland’s Potato Famine on a “coffin ship” and the Callaghan family who are having an “American wake”, a party to say goodbye to loved ones that are moving to America.
Donahue paints such a stark portrayal of the Irish immigrant’s experience. From the devastation in Ireland to the long sea trip, I was so sad for what these people had to endure.
As the characters’ lives intersect, they find themselves working for a Tammany Hall boss named Flaherty in New York. There’s a certain ick factor they must accept in order to work for him as he has questionable ethics and behavior. The politics and contradictions are fascinating. The impact of money and power have a devastating impact to their lives that carries forward through the three generations covered in the story.
This is a book you need to stay locked in to as Donahue peppers the story with details and character interactions that don’t seem terribly important in the moment but come together much later in the story. It’s done in a clever yet somewhat confusing way.
As the story progresses, there is a lot of violence, death, and devastation which reached a bubbling point in my head that screamed “this is too much!”. I found myself wanting the story to be about the initial generation of characters and their personal experiences in making a life for themselves in America vs three generations of the family.
I was hoping for an author’s note that described his inspiration for the book and more historical details.
Lost on Cherry Street captivated me from the very beginning with a girl named Peggy who is escaping Ireland’s Potato Famine on a “coffin ship” and the Callaghan family who are having an “American wake”, a party to say goodbye to loved ones that are moving to America.
Donahue paints such a stark portrayal of the Irish immigrant’s experience. From the devastation in Ireland to the long sea trip, I was so sad for what these people had to endure.
As the characters’ lives intersect, they find themselves working for a Tammany Hall boss named Flaherty in New York. There’s a certain ick factor they must accept in order to work for him as he has questionable ethics and behavior. The politics and contradictions are fascinating. The impact of money and power have a devastating impact to their lives that carries forward through the three generations covered in the story.
This is a book you need to stay locked in to as Donahue peppers the story with details and character interactions that don’t seem terribly important in the moment but come together much later in the story. It’s done in a clever yet somewhat confusing way.
As the story progresses, there is a lot of violence, death, and devastation which reached a bubbling point in my head that screamed “this is too much!”. I found myself wanting the story to be about the initial generation of characters and their personal experiences in making a life for themselves in America vs three generations of the family.
I was hoping for an author’s note that described his inspiration for the book and more historical details.
August 8, 2024
What would you do if your family faced unimaginable tragedy and secrets spanning generations?
Lost on Cherry Street by Jack Donahue is an incredible journey through such a scenario. I was captivated by this book’s exploration of resilience and hope.
The highlight I loved about this book is its deep dive into the human spirit, showing how each character struggles and strives for a better future despite their past. The storyline is gripping, weaving through three generations with a sense of mystery and emotional depth.
Author's writing truly stands out. The author masterfully balances historical context with personal drama, creating a rich tapestry that pulls you in from the first page. The descriptive language makes the setting and emotions come alive, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the story.
This book is highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a well written, hooking story with a perfect mix of excitement and introspection. I found this book to be one of those gems that keeps you charmed and hooked from beginning to end. It’s a tale of survival, loss, and the unyielding search for truth that resonates deeply.
Overall, a compelling and emotional journey.
Lost on Cherry Street by Jack Donahue is an incredible journey through such a scenario. I was captivated by this book’s exploration of resilience and hope.
The highlight I loved about this book is its deep dive into the human spirit, showing how each character struggles and strives for a better future despite their past. The storyline is gripping, weaving through three generations with a sense of mystery and emotional depth.
Author's writing truly stands out. The author masterfully balances historical context with personal drama, creating a rich tapestry that pulls you in from the first page. The descriptive language makes the setting and emotions come alive, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the story.
This book is highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a well written, hooking story with a perfect mix of excitement and introspection. I found this book to be one of those gems that keeps you charmed and hooked from beginning to end. It’s a tale of survival, loss, and the unyielding search for truth that resonates deeply.
Overall, a compelling and emotional journey.
August 18, 2024
An evocative journey through time.
This book immediately captivated me with its richly drawn characters and vivid historical setting. The author’s writing is both engaging and immersive, creating a narrative that feels both personal and expansive. The way the story unfolds kept me eagerly turning pages, engrossed in every twist and turn.
What I found most compelling was how the book seamlessly integrates historical events with personal narratives. The author has a remarkable ability to bring historical periods to life while also delving deeply into the emotions and experiences of the characters. This dual focus makes the book both informative and deeply moving.
The storytelling is polished and compelling, drawing you into its world effortlessly. If you’re searching for a book that offers both a gripping story and a deep emotional journey, this is an excellent choice. It’s a read that will linger in your mind long after you’ve finished.
This book immediately captivated me with its richly drawn characters and vivid historical setting. The author’s writing is both engaging and immersive, creating a narrative that feels both personal and expansive. The way the story unfolds kept me eagerly turning pages, engrossed in every twist and turn.
What I found most compelling was how the book seamlessly integrates historical events with personal narratives. The author has a remarkable ability to bring historical periods to life while also delving deeply into the emotions and experiences of the characters. This dual focus makes the book both informative and deeply moving.
The storytelling is polished and compelling, drawing you into its world effortlessly. If you’re searching for a book that offers both a gripping story and a deep emotional journey, this is an excellent choice. It’s a read that will linger in your mind long after you’ve finished.
August 18, 2024
As I immersed myself in this book, I was struck by its profound emotional depth and historical richness. The narrative is both engaging and evocative, drawing you into a world where every detail is meticulously crafted. The author’s storytelling prowess shines through in every page, making it a truly gripping read.
What sets this book apart is its unique ability to combine a compelling historical backdrop with deeply personal stories. The vivid descriptions and the well-developed characters create a sense of immediacy and connection. Each page feels alive with the struggles and triumphs of the characters, making it hard to put down.
The writing is exceptional, with a flow that keeps you engaged and invested in the story. It’s a book that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page. If you’re looking for a read that offers both emotional impact and historical insight, this is a must-buy.
What sets this book apart is its unique ability to combine a compelling historical backdrop with deeply personal stories. The vivid descriptions and the well-developed characters create a sense of immediacy and connection. Each page feels alive with the struggles and triumphs of the characters, making it hard to put down.
The writing is exceptional, with a flow that keeps you engaged and invested in the story. It’s a book that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page. If you’re looking for a read that offers both emotional impact and historical insight, this is a must-buy.
May 6, 2024
WOW! This epic journey through history lets the reader experience with great detail the horror and challenges of the Irish immigrants who had to leave their homeland during the great famine.
The graphic narrative of the various characters which emerge are at times painful to read, their descend into literal hell almost too much to bear for the reader.
But, alas, then comes the beautiful ending of the saga where love, hope and redemption are described in most touching detail. It brought me to tears!
I could see this book made into a historical TV series.
The graphic narrative of the various characters which emerge are at times painful to read, their descend into literal hell almost too much to bear for the reader.
But, alas, then comes the beautiful ending of the saga where love, hope and redemption are described in most touching detail. It brought me to tears!
I could see this book made into a historical TV series.
July 10, 2024
This debut novel absolutely captivated me. I was spellbound from start to finish. From the grim scenes on the coffin boat, to the rise of Steven Callaghan's career, to the strong female characters of Peggy, Nellie, Wee Mum, and Dorothy, to the surprising conclusion, this novel holds the reader in its thrall. I look forward to reading future novels by Jack Donahue, who has proven himself to be a literary force to be reckoned with.
September 16, 2024
Really good read!
The details are so thorough you feel the author was actually there and saw it with his own eyes.
The details are so thorough you feel the author was actually there and saw it with his own eyes.
April 15, 2024
Jack Donahue’s novel, Lost on Cherry Street, portrays the lives of three generations of the Callaghan family. This compelling story is a marvelous tapestry replete with historical and cultural details, Irish language, riffs of poetry and the struggles and development of characters that you will care about. The hardships of Ireland’s Great Famine and the ensuing mass emigration are rendered in graphic and painful detail. Yet, in the misery and hardship, love and other bonds are formed which plant the seeds that will sprout in their new country, America. Desperation propels these emigrants into an uncertain future, tears them apart from loved ones with the expectation that this will be their final farewells.
The feelings are described with acute sensitivity and detail along with haunting imagery. It is very interesting to see how fortunes unfold in their new country. How the characters strengths and weaknesses, along with the help, of and exploitation by fellow immigrants affect their relationships and circumstances. There are wonderful surprises in how previously puzzling situations are explained by putting the puzzle together before your` eyes as previously known characters have more of their relationship revealed. Another wonderful surprise consists of re-uniting two characters who were of profound importance to one another as youths so that they can enjoy a bond that was formed out of desperation.
There are glimpses into marriages that fail and succeed reflecting common dynamics as seen through an Irish lens. One common dynamic has to do with men rationalizing their behavior by proclaiming it was done to please the wife, but as it turns out the man never asked what his wife wanted. The conveyance of characters’ strengths, weaknesses and dreams is through graceful, yet pungent dialogue…there’s little beating around the bush.
One particular delight was a scene which, piece by piece, evoked an increasingly visceral reaction that misfortune was imminent. The images described seem innocent at first glance, but taken together they create a growing tension. The culmination of the tension is a pivotal accident which is crucial to the story.
Alcohol has its place in the story, and the author is finely tuned to the devastation and struggle that alcoholism brings. The author also depicts love that cannot be destroyed, that transcends behavior and is rooted in family, religion and a loving heart. The journey is beautifully portrayed.
There are a host of memorable characters. Some are written about at length, others make brief appearances at critical times and then there are those who appear or are alluded to at various times and then appear more wholly to fulfill a crucial role. In conclusion, Lost on Cherry Street gives insight into the reasons for migrating, the hardships endured by those who made the journey and how they were able to make their way in their new home. While portraying the difficulties encountered by the immigrants, there is an optimistic thread woven throughout the story consisting of human resilience and strong family, religious and community bonds. I heartily recommend this book.
The feelings are described with acute sensitivity and detail along with haunting imagery. It is very interesting to see how fortunes unfold in their new country. How the characters strengths and weaknesses, along with the help, of and exploitation by fellow immigrants affect their relationships and circumstances. There are wonderful surprises in how previously puzzling situations are explained by putting the puzzle together before your` eyes as previously known characters have more of their relationship revealed. Another wonderful surprise consists of re-uniting two characters who were of profound importance to one another as youths so that they can enjoy a bond that was formed out of desperation.
There are glimpses into marriages that fail and succeed reflecting common dynamics as seen through an Irish lens. One common dynamic has to do with men rationalizing their behavior by proclaiming it was done to please the wife, but as it turns out the man never asked what his wife wanted. The conveyance of characters’ strengths, weaknesses and dreams is through graceful, yet pungent dialogue…there’s little beating around the bush.
One particular delight was a scene which, piece by piece, evoked an increasingly visceral reaction that misfortune was imminent. The images described seem innocent at first glance, but taken together they create a growing tension. The culmination of the tension is a pivotal accident which is crucial to the story.
Alcohol has its place in the story, and the author is finely tuned to the devastation and struggle that alcoholism brings. The author also depicts love that cannot be destroyed, that transcends behavior and is rooted in family, religion and a loving heart. The journey is beautifully portrayed.
There are a host of memorable characters. Some are written about at length, others make brief appearances at critical times and then there are those who appear or are alluded to at various times and then appear more wholly to fulfill a crucial role. In conclusion, Lost on Cherry Street gives insight into the reasons for migrating, the hardships endured by those who made the journey and how they were able to make their way in their new home. While portraying the difficulties encountered by the immigrants, there is an optimistic thread woven throughout the story consisting of human resilience and strong family, religious and community bonds. I heartily recommend this book.
April 13, 2024
At its base level, Lost on Cherry Street is an immigrant's tale, and though the immigrant's tale is that of the Irish migration to America in the 1800's, the tale told is timeless. Names, faces and the origins may have changed, however the hardships, both those that are being escaped, and those waiting at the destination are very much the same. So as the reader is lead on a journey, one that opens their eyes to the plight of the Irish immigrant, it is difficult not to reflect on the immigrant situations of our own time. And in becoming aware of and recognizing all that was suffered then, one asks themselves, "why does such suffering still exist, so many years later, in our own day and age?"
In weaving his tale, Donahue proves himself not only to be of a creative mind, and an excellent builder of characters, but he also clearly exhibits that he has done extensive research in bringing to life the time and age of the Irish Migration. In escaping what could surely have been death in their home country, Peggy O'Rourke along with her Mother and Sister travel across the Atlantic with their fellow Irish, amidst conditions where they are treated no better than rats. They, along with countless others braved starvation, disease and death for the dream that the shores that would receive them might provide even the faintest hope for a better life.
Donahue's immigrant tale, as good as it is, is much more than just that, it is a story of the human spirit. It is the tale of the journey taken within. A reminder of all we can overcome, and all that which we can still succumb. Donahue's characters, like all of us, are flawed. And it is in our flaws, where all of our beauty lies, as well as our tragedies. We see in his characters that the choices we make, in response not only to our own sins, but the sins of others, can dictate the course of our fates. For those who seem to face insurmountable odds, redemption and grace are found in the humble heart, service to others and the determination to keep moving forward. While for those who by all accounts have reached the mountain top, the want for more, regardless of the cost, coupled with a failure to learn for past wrongs, or a refusal to let go of wrongs done to us, prove to be our own undoing and downfall. It is not only others we must learn to forgive, but also ourselves.
In telling the multigenerational of the Callaghans, Donahue makes the reader feel as though they themselves are part of the family. We feel every success, and every stumble on a visceral level. Upon completion of the novel, I found myself compelled to start over again from page one. To soak in more time with all of the characters, to experience them again, and learn more from whatever I missed in the first reading. This will be a book that will both marinate and resonate in my mind and my heart for a long time to come. Bravo.
In weaving his tale, Donahue proves himself not only to be of a creative mind, and an excellent builder of characters, but he also clearly exhibits that he has done extensive research in bringing to life the time and age of the Irish Migration. In escaping what could surely have been death in their home country, Peggy O'Rourke along with her Mother and Sister travel across the Atlantic with their fellow Irish, amidst conditions where they are treated no better than rats. They, along with countless others braved starvation, disease and death for the dream that the shores that would receive them might provide even the faintest hope for a better life.
Donahue's immigrant tale, as good as it is, is much more than just that, it is a story of the human spirit. It is the tale of the journey taken within. A reminder of all we can overcome, and all that which we can still succumb. Donahue's characters, like all of us, are flawed. And it is in our flaws, where all of our beauty lies, as well as our tragedies. We see in his characters that the choices we make, in response not only to our own sins, but the sins of others, can dictate the course of our fates. For those who seem to face insurmountable odds, redemption and grace are found in the humble heart, service to others and the determination to keep moving forward. While for those who by all accounts have reached the mountain top, the want for more, regardless of the cost, coupled with a failure to learn for past wrongs, or a refusal to let go of wrongs done to us, prove to be our own undoing and downfall. It is not only others we must learn to forgive, but also ourselves.
In telling the multigenerational of the Callaghans, Donahue makes the reader feel as though they themselves are part of the family. We feel every success, and every stumble on a visceral level. Upon completion of the novel, I found myself compelled to start over again from page one. To soak in more time with all of the characters, to experience them again, and learn more from whatever I missed in the first reading. This will be a book that will both marinate and resonate in my mind and my heart for a long time to come. Bravo.
April 13, 2024
One of the joys of reading is to come away with knowledge that helps us to grow in our awareness of others. Jack Donahue’s Lost on Cherry Street did that for me. Until now, I knew very little about the Irish immigrant’s experience after arriving in the United States except that the potato blight caused many to leave their homeland and the life they loved. Through the development of a variety of colorful characters, Donahue paints an image that became imprinted in my heart as well as my mind. In graphic detail, he tells of the hardships these characters had to endure just to get here; and for many, the journey ends due to the cruel treatment and lack of humanity on the ship, which cost many their lives. As the story unfolds, we follow those lucky enough to find their way, who are willing to do whatever necessary to become successful. For some, wanting to live the good life, becomes a conflict. This is where Donahue shines. Being a talented poet, he makes these characters come alive so much so that we feel anger and pain when we witness their raw brutality towards others in their pursuit of material wealth; we also feel frustration as we follow their journey and hope they will see their faults and redeem themselves. We become connected to one family whose members begin life on Cherry Street and become totally engrossed in the choices they make, taking them in such different directions. It pulled at my heartstrings in its reality, seeing how human frailty can cause so much destruction. We also witness the courage and determination of those characters who seem less likely to survive, find their own path to peace and contentment. This ability to show people as they really are, which is set in an historical backdrop, demonstrates detailed research of the time period along with expert storytelling, resulting in a beautifully crafted tale that gives the reader so much to think about after you put the book down. What more can we ask of a novel!
Nancy Reisman
Nancy Reisman
August 19, 2024
What hooked me!!
LET ME TALK ABOUT ...A tale that echoes through time!
The moment I started reading, I knew this book was something special. The author’s ability to create an atmosphere filled with both suspense and reflection made it impossible to put down. Every chapter brought new surprises, maintaining a narrative that feels profoundly rooted in history.
It is a seamless blend. Historical context in concoction with personal drama!!
What I loved most about this book is how seamlessly it blends historical context with personal drama. The writing is unique enough to draw you in, making you feel as though you’re part of the story’s unfolding. It’s a rare talent to balance such deep emotion with a plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The pacing is perfect—never rushed, yet never dragging or monotonous—just a constant pull toward a spell binding climax and a satisfying conclusion.
This book is more than just a read; it’s an experience. The storytelling is so engaging that it’s easy to lose yourself in its pages, only to emerge hours later, deeply moved. For anyone looking for a book that delivers both heart and history, this is a must-read. I am recommending this book for you to have a highly immersive experience! Storytelling, narrative style and the lovely climax project the author's exceptional writing prowess.
LET ME TALK ABOUT ...A tale that echoes through time!
The moment I started reading, I knew this book was something special. The author’s ability to create an atmosphere filled with both suspense and reflection made it impossible to put down. Every chapter brought new surprises, maintaining a narrative that feels profoundly rooted in history.
It is a seamless blend. Historical context in concoction with personal drama!!
What I loved most about this book is how seamlessly it blends historical context with personal drama. The writing is unique enough to draw you in, making you feel as though you’re part of the story’s unfolding. It’s a rare talent to balance such deep emotion with a plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The pacing is perfect—never rushed, yet never dragging or monotonous—just a constant pull toward a spell binding climax and a satisfying conclusion.
This book is more than just a read; it’s an experience. The storytelling is so engaging that it’s easy to lose yourself in its pages, only to emerge hours later, deeply moved. For anyone looking for a book that delivers both heart and history, this is a must-read. I am recommending this book for you to have a highly immersive experience! Storytelling, narrative style and the lovely climax project the author's exceptional writing prowess.
May 23, 2024
Not just an Irish story but an American story. Lost on Cherry Street is a very human story. It is a story about leaving your homeland and everything and everyone that you love and risking everything to escape extreme hardship and starvation for the hope of a better life. Jack Donohue spins a tail that takes us through three generations of an Irish family. We experience their adversities, their moral conflicts, their joys and sorrows and the trials and tribulations that shape their lives.
This is not a book for “the faint of heart”. Some scenes are intense. It will keep you up at night. You will want to know what comes next for the Callahan family. Will they ever find their way or will they stay forever “lost” in their personal conflicts? Will they ever find peace and redemption for the choices they made in their lives?
This book leaves us with the question, what peace and fulfillment do we seek in our own lives? Do we want to know the truth or do we want to escape from it? Are we willing to accept grace and love from unexpected sources and can we ever return “home” again?
Lost on Cherry Street is a must read. I highly recommend it. It’s a book that inspires and incites the reader. It’s a book that opens up hidden questions in us all.
This is not a book for “the faint of heart”. Some scenes are intense. It will keep you up at night. You will want to know what comes next for the Callahan family. Will they ever find their way or will they stay forever “lost” in their personal conflicts? Will they ever find peace and redemption for the choices they made in their lives?
This book leaves us with the question, what peace and fulfillment do we seek in our own lives? Do we want to know the truth or do we want to escape from it? Are we willing to accept grace and love from unexpected sources and can we ever return “home” again?
Lost on Cherry Street is a must read. I highly recommend it. It’s a book that inspires and incites the reader. It’s a book that opens up hidden questions in us all.
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