The Migrant

by Nicholas Sheridan Stanton

Family, say it slowly with me, family ... It's a word and a half word. It rolls off of the tongue easily, yet leaves an after-taste that is both sweet and bitter. It is the common denominator that defines us. We all have one. We're all linked by birth to at least two others. We spend our lives running to and running from the safety or confines of this uniquely social phenomenon. We live and die for those to whom we are connected within this format. No one is excluded from this formula, not even in death, as we are all related within this family of man. Meet Tina Lopez who learns early in her young life how large a family can become when there is much to offer, when there are gifts to share. How do you stay humble when you have what no other has? Then Ethan Kelly who will journey far to discover what he has always known. And KC Littleton who proofs the old adage, " be careful what you wish for ." The path they take on their way into one another's lives is almost too fantastic for fiction, but then remember, I said almost . From one coast to the other, to the far side of the globe, the experiences chronicled within these pages will tug hard at your heartstrings. You may come away from this story with a new appreciation for the three 'F's, ' faith , forgiveness , and family . In the end, I hope that you feel compelled to pick up the phone and call someone near and dear, just to say you were thinking of them. Share a quiet, or not so quiet moment. Talk to mom or dad, brother or sister, son or daughter, reconnect, re-enforce, and reassure. The things that we collect in life can be bought or sold. It's the people in our lives who are the treasures kept safely stored in our heart of hearts... family .

628 pages, Hardcover

First published December 1, 2005

Reviews

[Tengb · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book and couldn't put it down! Captivating from beginning to end, The Migrant is drama, suspense, and love story all rolled into one. The plot is original, creative and heart-warming with characters you love and despise, but all of whom you can relate to.

The twists and turns in this story can be viewed as fate or coincidence, depending on your beliefs. In either case, it leaves you thinking about choices you can make, things you can control, and relationships you can nurture, which lead to ultimate happiness...

[Elaine · Rating 4 out of 5]

AUDIO
"The Migrant's" narrator Paul Michael Garcia does a remarkable job with his Irish brogue and Spanish. (With his last name "Garcia," he could very well be Spanish.)

There is much going on in this story with many characters, making it especially difficult in audio with keeping track of who's who.

The Kelley family is Irish. Ethan Kelley while at college studying to be a priest in Boston, receives a letter to serve in the Vietnam War. Angel and Junior also serve in the War.

Victor, Maria, Tina, and Gilbert are Spanish. Tina has a special gift but since they are illegal immigrants and want to avoid the media, their family doesn't stay around any one area long. Especially after Tina's gift has been put to use.

There is much foul language. Revenge. More deaths than births. Bitterness. Murder. Suicide. Love, hate. War.

Lives merge in so many ways, through death and life. These characters become acquainted with folks who bring them joy and with folks who bring them pain. Even death.

Priests, doctors, nurses, orderlies, gang bangers, news reporters, a business mogul. Family, friends. The characters come to life in this story of much detail.

One thing lacking is the aftermath -- the nightmares and daymare associated with Nam.

[Charlie Stanton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book when it first came out and enjoyed it very much . Then I saw that there was a audio verison avaibale from Blackstone Audio so I gave it a listen and hearing it after have read it really had a magical effect bringing the people in story alive. So I'll be looking forward to his next book. Read it or listen you will be glad you did :)

[Nicholas Stanton · Rating 5 out of 5]

a good story...check it out

[Edison]

Great, could hardly put it down, Please do yourself a favor and READ IT!

[Sabrina]

This is a great book. I really enjoyed and couldn't put it down.. Check it out.. you will enjoy the book..

[Liro Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

The most important treasure that you collect in life is your own family. I totally agree with the author and was inspired by the story. Definitely a good read!

[ACRL]

Read by ACRL Member of the Week Clem Guthro. Learn more about Clem on the ACRL Insider blog.

[Diana Ortega · Rating 4 out of 5]

It took a lot of pages to show how everyone was linked, but I enjoyed the plot. The Bible passages were a nice touch to begin chapters.