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Life is Like a Bowl of Cherries
Life is Like a Bowl of Cherries: Sometimes Bitter, Sometimes Sweet is a collection of short stories with scattered poetry, reflecting the complexities of life, love and loss.
The stories in the collection dip into the lives of men and women who are faced with an ‘event’ that is challenging and in some cases life changing.
Even something as straightforward as grocery shopping online can be frustrating, and a DNA test produces surprise results, the past reaches out to embrace the present, and a gardening assistant is an unlikely grief counsellor. Romance is not always for the faint-hearted and you are never too old for love. Random acts of kindness have far reaching consequences and some people discover they are on a lucky streak. There are those watching over us who wish us well, and those in our lives who wish us harm.
The stories in the collection dip into the lives of men and women who are faced with an ‘event’ that is challenging and in some cases life changing.
Even something as straightforward as grocery shopping online can be frustrating, and a DNA test produces surprise results, the past reaches out to embrace the present, and a gardening assistant is an unlikely grief counsellor. Romance is not always for the faint-hearted and you are never too old for love. Random acts of kindness have far reaching consequences and some people discover they are on a lucky streak. There are those watching over us who wish us well, and those in our lives who wish us harm.
- GenresShort StoriesPoetry
95 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 11, 2020
1 person is currently reading
39 people want to read
About the author
Sally Cronin
23 books190 followersSally Cronin is the author of eighteen books including her memoir Size Matters: Especially when you weigh 330lb first published in 2001 which followed her weight loss of 150lbs and the programme she designed to achieve a healthy weight and regain her health. A programme she shared with her clients over her 26 year career as a nutritional therapist and on her blog. This has been followed by another seventeen books both fiction and non-fiction including multi-genre collections of short stories and poetry.
Her latest book Size Always Matters is an extended and updated version of her original book Size Matters and now includes the nutritional element to weight loss and some recipes with ingredients that provide the nutrients necessary for healthy weight loss and continued good health.
As an author she understands how important it is to have support in marketing books and offers a number of FREE promotional opportunities in the Café and Bookstore on her blog and across her social media.
After leading a nomadic existence exploring the world, she now lives with her husband on the coast of Southern Ireland enjoying the seasonal fluctuations in the temperature of the rain.
Her latest book Size Always Matters is an extended and updated version of her original book Size Matters and now includes the nutritional element to weight loss and some recipes with ingredients that provide the nutrients necessary for healthy weight loss and continued good health.
As an author she understands how important it is to have support in marketing books and offers a number of FREE promotional opportunities in the Café and Bookstore on her blog and across her social media.
After leading a nomadic existence exploring the world, she now lives with her husband on the coast of Southern Ireland enjoying the seasonal fluctuations in the temperature of the rain.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
May 2, 2021
I'm guaranteed to experience laughter and tender emotions when I read a book written by Sally Cronin. In her latest, Life is Like a Bowl of Cherries, she shares a dozen or so short stories and a few poems that focus on the absurdities of life and all the moments that live to teach us something new. I try to convince myself to only read one each night, but an hour later, the book is finished. Perhaps her next collection will include a theme of patience!
Undoubtedly, my favorite is the first story in the lot. All the rest had something amazing to live up to: Sometime in the future (hopefully VERY distant), an automated device is hooked up to EVERYTHING the narrator does. When she wants to order a few grocery items that might have a little too much sugar and fat in them, everything falls apart. Seriously... how many times have we all had this scenario happen in the most briefest of moments -- the one where someone says, "Buy the diet item" or "You don't really need to eat that, do you?" Take it up or down a million notches in this story. No matter what angle our protagonist tries, the computer has her beat.
Life is definitely like a bowl of cherries. It is sweet and sour, you've got to go through a whole bunch to find the best one, and if you consume too many pits, I hear there's an arsenic concern to consider. Luckily, if you devour this particular bowl of cherries, you'll have some witty stories to share at a dinner party or a fun little tidbit to announce on your next conference call. Cronin completely had me
in hysterics over what happened in the first story, and at other times, I smiled and laughed... teared up a bit at the generosity of some and the thoughtfulness of others.
This is everything you want in a short collection of tales about the reality of life. Well worth the purchase and download. Highly recommended. And it reminds me why I've grown to love this author's work. We all need a little bit of her wisdom and humor.
Undoubtedly, my favorite is the first story in the lot. All the rest had something amazing to live up to: Sometime in the future (hopefully VERY distant), an automated device is hooked up to EVERYTHING the narrator does. When she wants to order a few grocery items that might have a little too much sugar and fat in them, everything falls apart. Seriously... how many times have we all had this scenario happen in the most briefest of moments -- the one where someone says, "Buy the diet item" or "You don't really need to eat that, do you?" Take it up or down a million notches in this story. No matter what angle our protagonist tries, the computer has her beat.
Life is definitely like a bowl of cherries. It is sweet and sour, you've got to go through a whole bunch to find the best one, and if you consume too many pits, I hear there's an arsenic concern to consider. Luckily, if you devour this particular bowl of cherries, you'll have some witty stories to share at a dinner party or a fun little tidbit to announce on your next conference call. Cronin completely had me
in hysterics over what happened in the first story, and at other times, I smiled and laughed... teared up a bit at the generosity of some and the thoughtfulness of others.
This is everything you want in a short collection of tales about the reality of life. Well worth the purchase and download. Highly recommended. And it reminds me why I've grown to love this author's work. We all need a little bit of her wisdom and humor.
March 14, 2024
‘Life is Like a Bowl of Cherries: Sometimes Bitter, Sometimes Sweet’ by dexterous and skilful author Sally Cronin is a charming collection of short stories and poems that is uplifting and inspirational. The poems in the book really made me recollect some of my happier times in the past and the unique short stories in this collection energized me, making me want to return time and again to my Kindle to finish the book. Since all the stories have happy endings, I was left with a smile every time on my face at the end of each tale. From the return of lost love to forgiveness of grievances long past, from a vindication of wrongs done to one to lucky moments of monetary blessings, from ghosts of the past to eternal love stories – these stories make a reader feel optimistic and cheerful about the future as well as the present. Sans triggers and negative themes, this collection is a feel-good masterpiece and a must have on everyone’s Kindle bookshelf.
I especially loved the love stories mentioned here in this collection as well as the simple love poems. I am a romantic at heart and stories about lifelong love lasting till the end of one’s life makes me a happy reader. These stories are told with sensitivity and tenderness, and I loved the key roles played by pets and gardens in these tales. Sally Cronin knows the subtitles of the heart and her expertise in executing a good plot knows no bounds. I especially was taken up with the story of ‘Long Lost Love’ and theme of forgiveness contained therein. Cronin’s simplistic and mature style manages to convey the right emotions in this particular tale that captures the heart of all wounded lovers, making way for the gifts of mercy and forgiveness. In an ancient Indian folk tale, it is stated that when a victim of false love does forgive that means that the so-called victim had a big heart, making the sin of the wrong doer even greater – because that meant that the victim loved him/her/they with a great love of sorts. One is reminded of this moral when one reads ‘Long Lost Love’ by stellar writer Cronin as well as some of her other love stories in this collection.
I loved the many themes of forgiveness, redemption, mercy, love, luck, family bonding, motherhood, memories, and amour that is chronicled in these pages. They are told with proficiency and with elan, all divided into sizeable chapters each beginning with a meaningful poem to set the stage for adventure. My favourite poems were obviously the ones related to old love or eternal love like ‘Connections’, ‘Two Hearts’ and ‘Ritual of Mehendi’. They are penned in a humble but artistic manner and the lines are evocative of many emotions. Be ready to shed a tear or two as one reads these little gems, especially ‘Connections’. I was especially joyful to see the topic of Mehendi covered by the author. I’ve always believed it to be truly the very epitome of what a woman’s love is like for her partner.
Few other stories that became my favourites were ‘The Florist’ which was about finding love in one’s middle age, ‘The Date’ about an elderly woman going out with a very much younger man after 40 years and ‘The Charity Shop’ which reminded me about my own love for shopping for bargains, and sometimes coming out lucky. A reader will even be taken up and sometimes left stunned by some unique tales told in this collection like ‘The Weekly Shopping’ and ‘DNA’. Those two are really futuristic and can become a reality in the near future as AI continues to expand its hold upon as well as in our lives. Where the last two were concerned, they were so noteworthy that I hope one day Cronin will develop them into full length science fiction or futuristic novels. To know more do check out ‘Life Is Like A Bowl of Sherries’ by adroit author and notable indie blogger Sally Cronin, grab your copy of her book today!
If you are looking for a cozy collection of ‘feel-good’ short stories for the Summer or if you wish to delve into a lovely collection of subtly moralistic stories about reality that is and that can be, look no further than Sally Cronin’s title. I hope to read more of her books in the coming days. She is an author to watch out for and learn a lot from. I especially loved her meticulous prose and narrative style, reminds me a lot of Alice Munroe the Canadian short story writer par excellence as well as my favourite Joyce Carol Oates the American queen of novels and short story collections. All this with the atmospheric quality of the post-World War 2 romance novels and the Christian fiction of the 1980s sans the symbolism of course!
Sally Cronin obviously gets 5 stars from me! Kudos to her on a job beautifully done!
Looking forward to some more of her literature in the coming days!
I especially loved the love stories mentioned here in this collection as well as the simple love poems. I am a romantic at heart and stories about lifelong love lasting till the end of one’s life makes me a happy reader. These stories are told with sensitivity and tenderness, and I loved the key roles played by pets and gardens in these tales. Sally Cronin knows the subtitles of the heart and her expertise in executing a good plot knows no bounds. I especially was taken up with the story of ‘Long Lost Love’ and theme of forgiveness contained therein. Cronin’s simplistic and mature style manages to convey the right emotions in this particular tale that captures the heart of all wounded lovers, making way for the gifts of mercy and forgiveness. In an ancient Indian folk tale, it is stated that when a victim of false love does forgive that means that the so-called victim had a big heart, making the sin of the wrong doer even greater – because that meant that the victim loved him/her/they with a great love of sorts. One is reminded of this moral when one reads ‘Long Lost Love’ by stellar writer Cronin as well as some of her other love stories in this collection.
I loved the many themes of forgiveness, redemption, mercy, love, luck, family bonding, motherhood, memories, and amour that is chronicled in these pages. They are told with proficiency and with elan, all divided into sizeable chapters each beginning with a meaningful poem to set the stage for adventure. My favourite poems were obviously the ones related to old love or eternal love like ‘Connections’, ‘Two Hearts’ and ‘Ritual of Mehendi’. They are penned in a humble but artistic manner and the lines are evocative of many emotions. Be ready to shed a tear or two as one reads these little gems, especially ‘Connections’. I was especially joyful to see the topic of Mehendi covered by the author. I’ve always believed it to be truly the very epitome of what a woman’s love is like for her partner.
Few other stories that became my favourites were ‘The Florist’ which was about finding love in one’s middle age, ‘The Date’ about an elderly woman going out with a very much younger man after 40 years and ‘The Charity Shop’ which reminded me about my own love for shopping for bargains, and sometimes coming out lucky. A reader will even be taken up and sometimes left stunned by some unique tales told in this collection like ‘The Weekly Shopping’ and ‘DNA’. Those two are really futuristic and can become a reality in the near future as AI continues to expand its hold upon as well as in our lives. Where the last two were concerned, they were so noteworthy that I hope one day Cronin will develop them into full length science fiction or futuristic novels. To know more do check out ‘Life Is Like A Bowl of Sherries’ by adroit author and notable indie blogger Sally Cronin, grab your copy of her book today!
If you are looking for a cozy collection of ‘feel-good’ short stories for the Summer or if you wish to delve into a lovely collection of subtly moralistic stories about reality that is and that can be, look no further than Sally Cronin’s title. I hope to read more of her books in the coming days. She is an author to watch out for and learn a lot from. I especially loved her meticulous prose and narrative style, reminds me a lot of Alice Munroe the Canadian short story writer par excellence as well as my favourite Joyce Carol Oates the American queen of novels and short story collections. All this with the atmospheric quality of the post-World War 2 romance novels and the Christian fiction of the 1980s sans the symbolism of course!
Sally Cronin obviously gets 5 stars from me! Kudos to her on a job beautifully done!
Looking forward to some more of her literature in the coming days!
December 26, 2020
Sally Cronin's Life is Like a Bowl of Cherries: Sometimes Bitter, Sometimes Sweet (2020) delivers exactly what the title promises--a lovely collection of real-life stories about ordinary people. They are heart warming and satisfying, showing the kind side of people despite dreary events or circumstances. There are no dark endings or dystopian themes--both I stay away from when reading because I get all the depressing circumstances in the world around me. I don't need to read it in my fiction!
They are organized into categories--Technology, Connections, Winning Streak, Animal Magic, and Falling in and out of love. There’s one about an abused wide who’s finally had enough, another about the wife who loses a child and has the courage to try again. In one, a lonely woman finds family after her DNA reveals secrets. There's Random Acts of Kindness, The Charity Shop, The Night Shift, and about a dozen more. All are a handful of pages that leave you feeling better than when you started. Sally's voice is kind, empathetic, and respectful of the varied circumstances that surround people, and without fail, brings their dreams and passions to life. In fiction, there are writers and storytellers. One writes an interesting story and the other makes you feel they're talking to you, like you can't leave because you'll miss something. I've read a lot of Sally's books and I can tell you, she is the latter.
If you in love stories of normal people surviving life's challenges with a positive attitude and a will to overcome, you’ll love this book.
They are organized into categories--Technology, Connections, Winning Streak, Animal Magic, and Falling in and out of love. There’s one about an abused wide who’s finally had enough, another about the wife who loses a child and has the courage to try again. In one, a lonely woman finds family after her DNA reveals secrets. There's Random Acts of Kindness, The Charity Shop, The Night Shift, and about a dozen more. All are a handful of pages that leave you feeling better than when you started. Sally's voice is kind, empathetic, and respectful of the varied circumstances that surround people, and without fail, brings their dreams and passions to life. In fiction, there are writers and storytellers. One writes an interesting story and the other makes you feel they're talking to you, like you can't leave because you'll miss something. I've read a lot of Sally's books and I can tell you, she is the latter.
If you in love stories of normal people surviving life's challenges with a positive attitude and a will to overcome, you’ll love this book.
February 22, 2021
Until the pandemic struck, I only read full-length novels. I thought that short stories might be shallow and unsatisfying in comparison. When we went into lockdown, here was my chance to get on with some meaty reading. But I couldn’t. I’ve been restless and unfocussed and when Sally Cronin’s Life is Like a Bowl of Cherries was recommended to me I decided to give it a go. How wrong I’d been about short stories!
I loved this book. The sub heading of Sometimes bitter, Sometimes Sweet is apt as the stories covered a wide range of experiences and each one touched me in different ways. Sally Cronin understands people. Her descriptions of relationships will strike a chord with everyone who reads this collection.
The tone varies, which added to the pleasure for me: wry, humorous, sad, reflective, vengeful, sweet. Some of the characters I positively enjoyed disliking and it was immensely satisfying when they got their comeuppance, others squeezed my heart but I was never left without hope for them.
The plots were neat, too. The first in the book was delightful, very funny but also a touch macabre. Gaffer Tape managed to condense a whole novel of abuse into a few powerful pages with an ending that made me want to cheer. Animals feature in some of these tales and Sally’s love of creatures is evident in the closely observed behaviours and in their impact upon humans. The story about the badly treated guard dog was one of my favourites and left me moved by the innate goodness evident in most people.
Scattered like precious gems throughout the book are exquisite poems. These aren’t rambling sagas; they’re expertly crafted delights that follow strict rules such as the syllabic form of cinquains. The results are stunning in their ability to condense a world of meaning into a few considered words.
I’m a convert now and will be looking out for more collections of short stories by this amazing author.
I loved this book. The sub heading of Sometimes bitter, Sometimes Sweet is apt as the stories covered a wide range of experiences and each one touched me in different ways. Sally Cronin understands people. Her descriptions of relationships will strike a chord with everyone who reads this collection.
The tone varies, which added to the pleasure for me: wry, humorous, sad, reflective, vengeful, sweet. Some of the characters I positively enjoyed disliking and it was immensely satisfying when they got their comeuppance, others squeezed my heart but I was never left without hope for them.
The plots were neat, too. The first in the book was delightful, very funny but also a touch macabre. Gaffer Tape managed to condense a whole novel of abuse into a few powerful pages with an ending that made me want to cheer. Animals feature in some of these tales and Sally’s love of creatures is evident in the closely observed behaviours and in their impact upon humans. The story about the badly treated guard dog was one of my favourites and left me moved by the innate goodness evident in most people.
Scattered like precious gems throughout the book are exquisite poems. These aren’t rambling sagas; they’re expertly crafted delights that follow strict rules such as the syllabic form of cinquains. The results are stunning in their ability to condense a world of meaning into a few considered words.
I’m a convert now and will be looking out for more collections of short stories by this amazing author.
January 24, 2021
I figured that if this book was anywhere near as good as Ms. Cronin's last book, I would love it. And I did. It's full of poetry that is as beautiful as it is evocative, as well as short stories that are simultaneously touching, joyful, inspirational, heartwarming, and instructive.
One of the stories, The Weekly Shopping, though presented as a funny and knowing tale, is almost chilling in its warning about the machines we trust with our personal information. I also especially loved The Florist, about a woman who, though she has a comfortable life with her cat, knows she's missing something. I loved Gaffer Tape, which is the story of a woman who finally has the courage to leave her abusive husband. The way she does it is priceless.
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a good story about people's humanity and the things that draw us together. It's a book I can see myself reading again and again.
One of the stories, The Weekly Shopping, though presented as a funny and knowing tale, is almost chilling in its warning about the machines we trust with our personal information. I also especially loved The Florist, about a woman who, though she has a comfortable life with her cat, knows she's missing something. I loved Gaffer Tape, which is the story of a woman who finally has the courage to leave her abusive husband. The way she does it is priceless.
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a good story about people's humanity and the things that draw us together. It's a book I can see myself reading again and again.
December 18, 2020
I was eagerly looking forward to Sally Cronin's latest book of short stories that take us in and to other places and time. And although each story is individual to itself, as with all of Cronin's stories, they share a common theme - kindness, humility and the human condition.
Cronin writes stories about everyday humans, situations, love, loss, courage and hope. Several of the stories end or begin with an accompanying poem which reflects on the tone of the story. The author has an innate gift for syllabic poetry - especially the Cinquain.
I love the title of this book because, as it implies, such as in life we enjoy the sweet moments, but must also endure the bitter sometimes in life. The book reads like an anthology, encompassing stories that warm our hearts, as well as a few surprise stories with a futuristic edge - that may not really be so far in the future.
Just a sampling of a few of my favorites in this book are:
The Weekly Shopping - The first of the stories to grab our attention where Barbara encounters what many of us feel nowadays - Big Brother watching our every move. But how far is far enough?
Winning Streak - "They say you can't buy happiness, but you will be surprised by the power of a fiver in the hands of the right people." This poem alludes to two of Cronin's stories about luck, below.
The Scratch Card - following circumstances after Elsie Thompson wins $20 on a scratch card, and we discover how much those meager winnings hugely touch a few people's lives as 'pay it forward' progresses.
The Charity Shop - have you ever had the good fortune to find a sweet cheap deal in a charity shop? Find out what Mary Jane picked up for a 'fiver' and how it changed many other lives.
The Date - Elsie Windsor buys a raffle ticket, hoping to win the tin of biscuits and wins a lot more than she could even imagine. At age 95, Elsie is not too old to feel young again.
Friday Night - An empowering little tale about Lizzie who learns her value and takes back her power.
Gaffer Tape - More Karma, and a bit of sweet deserved revenge when Jennifer has taken back her power and teaches her husband a well-needed lesson.
The Florist - It's never too late for dreams to come true, even when you think love has passed you by.
Sally Cronin is known for her books that go straight to the heart, so if you enjoy feel good stories for a lift, you will surely enjoy this latest book of heartfelt stories.
Cronin writes stories about everyday humans, situations, love, loss, courage and hope. Several of the stories end or begin with an accompanying poem which reflects on the tone of the story. The author has an innate gift for syllabic poetry - especially the Cinquain.
I love the title of this book because, as it implies, such as in life we enjoy the sweet moments, but must also endure the bitter sometimes in life. The book reads like an anthology, encompassing stories that warm our hearts, as well as a few surprise stories with a futuristic edge - that may not really be so far in the future.
Just a sampling of a few of my favorites in this book are:
The Weekly Shopping - The first of the stories to grab our attention where Barbara encounters what many of us feel nowadays - Big Brother watching our every move. But how far is far enough?
Winning Streak - "They say you can't buy happiness, but you will be surprised by the power of a fiver in the hands of the right people." This poem alludes to two of Cronin's stories about luck, below.
The Scratch Card - following circumstances after Elsie Thompson wins $20 on a scratch card, and we discover how much those meager winnings hugely touch a few people's lives as 'pay it forward' progresses.
The Charity Shop - have you ever had the good fortune to find a sweet cheap deal in a charity shop? Find out what Mary Jane picked up for a 'fiver' and how it changed many other lives.
The Date - Elsie Windsor buys a raffle ticket, hoping to win the tin of biscuits and wins a lot more than she could even imagine. At age 95, Elsie is not too old to feel young again.
Friday Night - An empowering little tale about Lizzie who learns her value and takes back her power.
Gaffer Tape - More Karma, and a bit of sweet deserved revenge when Jennifer has taken back her power and teaches her husband a well-needed lesson.
The Florist - It's never too late for dreams to come true, even when you think love has passed you by.
Sally Cronin is known for her books that go straight to the heart, so if you enjoy feel good stories for a lift, you will surely enjoy this latest book of heartfelt stories.
March 4, 2021
Life isn’t always easy- sometimes, it’s even the pits.
Sally Cronin’s anthology is an entertaining collection combining sweet, wholesome tales with stories from a more jaded point of view.
I love how she takes everyday situations and infuses them with humor, such as in The Weekly Shopping;
‘What the hell does DNST mean?’ ‘Do Not Serve Treats.’
Life is Like a Bowl of Cherries- Sally Cronin
Bittersweet endings like The Wedding Day when a hero returns from the grave to see his daughter’s wedding.
I teared up think of my Annie with The Nanny. The story of an overwhelmed couple caring for their teething baby and the unexpected help they receive.
Another favorite is a poem titled The Duchess, where the author paints a portrait of her beloved parent.
There were a few stories about the dark side of life, but these just served to enhance the rest and made me appreciate the blessings in my own life.
Easy-to-read, enjoyable, and relatable.
If you need a fun escape from the winter doldrums, give Life is Like a Bowl of Cherries a read!
Sally Cronin’s anthology is an entertaining collection combining sweet, wholesome tales with stories from a more jaded point of view.
I love how she takes everyday situations and infuses them with humor, such as in The Weekly Shopping;
‘What the hell does DNST mean?’ ‘Do Not Serve Treats.’
Life is Like a Bowl of Cherries- Sally Cronin
Bittersweet endings like The Wedding Day when a hero returns from the grave to see his daughter’s wedding.
I teared up think of my Annie with The Nanny. The story of an overwhelmed couple caring for their teething baby and the unexpected help they receive.
Another favorite is a poem titled The Duchess, where the author paints a portrait of her beloved parent.
There were a few stories about the dark side of life, but these just served to enhance the rest and made me appreciate the blessings in my own life.
Easy-to-read, enjoyable, and relatable.
If you need a fun escape from the winter doldrums, give Life is Like a Bowl of Cherries a read!
December 16, 2020
I’m a fan of Cronin’s short stories and snagged this anthology the day it came out. The author describes it as a collection of short tales that reflect “the complexities of life, love, and loss.” That’s a fit description. There are stories of kindness, family, grief, courage, and second chances. The characters are ordinary and relatable, but they’re also extraordinary in those moments that define who they are as people.
The first story in the anthology, The Weekly Shopping, is hilarious if not a little ominous, but the rest of the selections are touching. Many are heartwarming, and I wanted to hug the characters. I enjoyed the whole collection but my favorites were: The Scratch Card, The Charity Shop, The Date, and The Gardening Assistant. Between the stories are selections of syllabic poetry. A crown cinquain entitled The Birds was just beautiful. I highly recommend this anthology to anyone who loves well-written short stories about life.
The first story in the anthology, The Weekly Shopping, is hilarious if not a little ominous, but the rest of the selections are touching. Many are heartwarming, and I wanted to hug the characters. I enjoyed the whole collection but my favorites were: The Scratch Card, The Charity Shop, The Date, and The Gardening Assistant. Between the stories are selections of syllabic poetry. A crown cinquain entitled The Birds was just beautiful. I highly recommend this anthology to anyone who loves well-written short stories about life.
February 19, 2024
Life is Like a Bowl of Cherries: Sometimes Bitter, Sometimes Sweet is a beautifully written collection of short stories about events and/or circumstances that are challenging or life changing. I absolutely loved every single one of them. They are all so genuine, relatable, and utterly human. Cronin expertly takes her readers through an array of emotions, showing us the true complexities of life, and how sometimes the smallest acts can have lasting consequences…both good and bad.
The very first story, The Weekly Shopping, had me hooked. The witty, dry humor was priceless. I laughed so hard my husband sought me out to find out what was so funny. I couldn’t wait to read the next story. And then the next. All a lovely surprise. Animal Magic represents endearing stories about the comfort, love, and healing powers of animals, both wild and pets, and how much they enrich our lives. Never taking, always giving. Two Hearts and Garden Birds were my favorite poems.
There are a variety of themes, such as love (both enduring and toxic), grief, revenge, redemption, hope, and acts of giving. Cronin shows us very eloquently how serendipitous life can be. Just when we least expect it, our whole world can turn around for the better or the worst. The message to me is that we are all connected and similar in more ways than we are different, through basic human needs of love and acceptance. Kindness is a powerful gift. I highly recommend this moving collection of stories.
The very first story, The Weekly Shopping, had me hooked. The witty, dry humor was priceless. I laughed so hard my husband sought me out to find out what was so funny. I couldn’t wait to read the next story. And then the next. All a lovely surprise. Animal Magic represents endearing stories about the comfort, love, and healing powers of animals, both wild and pets, and how much they enrich our lives. Never taking, always giving. Two Hearts and Garden Birds were my favorite poems.
There are a variety of themes, such as love (both enduring and toxic), grief, revenge, redemption, hope, and acts of giving. Cronin shows us very eloquently how serendipitous life can be. Just when we least expect it, our whole world can turn around for the better or the worst. The message to me is that we are all connected and similar in more ways than we are different, through basic human needs of love and acceptance. Kindness is a powerful gift. I highly recommend this moving collection of stories.
December 21, 2020
Author Sally Cronin wields heartwarming magic in this delightful collection of short stories, each written with a keen eye focused on the nuances of human nature. Life is Like a Bowl of Cherries: Sometimes Bitter, Sometimes Sweet is a series of lovely vignettes written with a clean hand as Cronin builds her common man, everyday stories. It’s the little things in life that matter, and Cronin depicts such topics as random acts of kindness, unforeseen good fortune, falling into and out of love, and the magic of animals in such an optimistic way that the reader is morally encouraged and given great hope. Each story lulls the reader with neat, simplistic beauty even as it takes an unexpected turn. In Cronin’s The Scratch Card, Elsie Thompson wins twenty pounds on a scratch card, which she puts to use in such a way that events are set in motion and change a young man’s life. In Friday Night, a young woman is taken for granted by her clueless boyfriend, until a stranger whispers a line that puts her life on another course, and in the satisfying The Gaffer, a duplicitous wife-abuser gets creative comeuppance.
Interspersed throughout this e-book are poems and photographs that poignantly highlight the collective spirit of the book. The characters persevere, help each other, and come to their senses in a manner suggestive of hard-won insight, and written with all the impact of a parable. A pleasurable, enchanting read with a heart of gold, Sally Cronin’s latest release is nothing short of a charming assembly of uplifting stories.
Interspersed throughout this e-book are poems and photographs that poignantly highlight the collective spirit of the book. The characters persevere, help each other, and come to their senses in a manner suggestive of hard-won insight, and written with all the impact of a parable. A pleasurable, enchanting read with a heart of gold, Sally Cronin’s latest release is nothing short of a charming assembly of uplifting stories.
December 24, 2020
I love all Sally Cronin’s books, especially her short stories. When I saw her new book, I snatched it up knowing that it would be an enjoyable and heartfelt read. These stories are entertaining, sweet and touch the heart. Life is Like a Bowl of Cherries: Sometimes Bitter, Sometimes Sweet is an endearing collection of lovely short stories and poetry.
As I read each story I felt drawn into the tales. Though I enjoyed all of them, I have my favorites, The Weekly Shopping, which was a hilarious tale though close to believable in the near future; The Florist, where love is discovered unexpectedly; The Wedding Day shows how love goes beyond death; The Scratch Card is a tale of luck and how it touches many lives; the Gardening Assistant that is a surprisingly touching story of the power of love of a pet for his mistress and how he saved her sanity and marriage. I could go on and on about these incredible tales of love, loss, abuse, neglect and life-changing events. The poetry interspersed between the stories were elegantly written and touching.
I highly recommend this beautiful short story collection to anyone who loves stories that are real and touch the heart. Sally Cronin’s has another winner!
As I read each story I felt drawn into the tales. Though I enjoyed all of them, I have my favorites, The Weekly Shopping, which was a hilarious tale though close to believable in the near future; The Florist, where love is discovered unexpectedly; The Wedding Day shows how love goes beyond death; The Scratch Card is a tale of luck and how it touches many lives; the Gardening Assistant that is a surprisingly touching story of the power of love of a pet for his mistress and how he saved her sanity and marriage. I could go on and on about these incredible tales of love, loss, abuse, neglect and life-changing events. The poetry interspersed between the stories were elegantly written and touching.
I highly recommend this beautiful short story collection to anyone who loves stories that are real and touch the heart. Sally Cronin’s has another winner!
December 23, 2020
There are writers who can keep you on your toes, and writers who can entertain. And there are writers who can compose soulful stories that speak to your heart. Sally Cronin is one such writer, and 'Life is Like a Bowl of Cherries: Sometimes Bitter, Sometimes Sweet' is a collection that will pull at your heartstrings. Even those you've forgotten about. :)
I was pressed for time when this book came out, and I could only pick it up now and then, taking in one chapter at a time. It only made the enjoyment of its reading last longer.
Cronin's stories shine a spotlight on life's simple humanity and on the humanity that rolls back into life. They are a reminder that life IS filled with hope. A read for all.
A perfect book during such trying times.
I was pressed for time when this book came out, and I could only pick it up now and then, taking in one chapter at a time. It only made the enjoyment of its reading last longer.
Cronin's stories shine a spotlight on life's simple humanity and on the humanity that rolls back into life. They are a reminder that life IS filled with hope. A read for all.
A perfect book during such trying times.
December 29, 2020
“Life is Like a Bowl of Cherries” is a perfect blend of poetry and short stories. The poetry is tucked between the stories that bestowed beautiful images that completed the picture that the collection of short stories offered. The characters were engaging, and I could feel empathy for their situation, good or bad. There were five categories covered, and I enjoyed each subject and story. It was like reading about people I already knew. I rooted for the woman with an abusive husband, felt the heartbreak of a woman who had lost a child, and laughed when a woman went to buy her groceries. This collection offers hope in everyday situations. A well-written and heartfelt book that I highly recommend!
December 23, 2020
A delightful collection of short stories and poems by the indomitable Sally Cronin. Each story is a slice of life, some bitter, some sweet and others bittersweet. The author cleverly depicts ordinary loves in an extraordinary way. I particularly loved how pets are portrayed as important, a cat comforts a care home resident and a dog saves a marriage. These are stories of love, loss, joy, abuse, despair and most of all, hope. Enjoyable nuggets to savour and return to.
February 26, 2021
Sally Cronin has a sharp eye for the joys, miseries, hopes, aspirations, of humanity, as well as their weaknesses and she wraps these observations up into stories that touch the full spectrum of the reader's emotions.
Who would not understand the frustration of a shopper who, having agreed to a healthy eating programme but fallen off the wagon, is thwarted in her attempts to purchase longed for goodies by an Artificial Intelligence purchasing system that forces shoppers to stick to their confirmed eating programme and disallows the purchase of said goodies. You can read about this shopper's reaction in The Weekly Shopping.
The author reveals the delight of finding unexpected and previously unknown family connections through a sophisticated and interconnected DNA AI tracking system. Read DNA to find out more.
The Wedding Day was one of my favourite stories and explored the dual concepts of a spirit trapped on earth and seeking closure and a daughter who has grown up fatherless and knows very little about his life. A delightfully satisfying read.
The Nanny is a beautiful tale about the strong attachment that exists between a person and man's best friend and this tale is contrasted by an emotion rendition of a couple's journey to acceptance and healing following the death of their baby, in utero.
The final story I will mention in this review is Friday Night which explores the themes of disappointment in love and finding the right person in one exciting and emotional story.
There are other beautiful stories and various lovely poems in this collection which I shall leave readers to discover for themselves. A truly beautiful collection.
Who would not understand the frustration of a shopper who, having agreed to a healthy eating programme but fallen off the wagon, is thwarted in her attempts to purchase longed for goodies by an Artificial Intelligence purchasing system that forces shoppers to stick to their confirmed eating programme and disallows the purchase of said goodies. You can read about this shopper's reaction in The Weekly Shopping.
The author reveals the delight of finding unexpected and previously unknown family connections through a sophisticated and interconnected DNA AI tracking system. Read DNA to find out more.
The Wedding Day was one of my favourite stories and explored the dual concepts of a spirit trapped on earth and seeking closure and a daughter who has grown up fatherless and knows very little about his life. A delightfully satisfying read.
The Nanny is a beautiful tale about the strong attachment that exists between a person and man's best friend and this tale is contrasted by an emotion rendition of a couple's journey to acceptance and healing following the death of their baby, in utero.
The final story I will mention in this review is Friday Night which explores the themes of disappointment in love and finding the right person in one exciting and emotional story.
There are other beautiful stories and various lovely poems in this collection which I shall leave readers to discover for themselves. A truly beautiful collection.
March 2, 2021
Cleverly penned from the title on the front cover to the final word on the last page with a unique voice, addressing life’s dilemmas and challenges, Sally weaves heart-warming storytelling about ordinary people in real life situations that in some cases can be life changing.
For some of us on-line shopping is straightforward, others find it frustrating. While in short story, The Weekly Shopping, Sally takes the experience one step further in addressing this and brought a smile to my face as I turned the pages, intrigued.
Kind people with big hearts, courageous and generous, offering a glimmer of hope. Long lost relatives, offering a sense of belonging. A reminder romance is not only for the young and we are never too old to find love. Entwined in these engaging tales are peppering’s of beautiful prose. Highly recommend this book.
For some of us on-line shopping is straightforward, others find it frustrating. While in short story, The Weekly Shopping, Sally takes the experience one step further in addressing this and brought a smile to my face as I turned the pages, intrigued.
Kind people with big hearts, courageous and generous, offering a glimmer of hope. Long lost relatives, offering a sense of belonging. A reminder romance is not only for the young and we are never too old to find love. Entwined in these engaging tales are peppering’s of beautiful prose. Highly recommend this book.
February 27, 2021
The full name of this book is actually, Life is Like a Bowl of Cherries: Sometimes Bitter, Sometimes Sweet. I had to shorten it, because when I put this on my website blog, it limits title lengths.
That being said, I thoroughly enjoyed this collection of short stories, sprinkled with meaningful poetry, each pertaining to the pervious story.
Flipping the pages into each new chapter, was to be whisked into another era, another life, a 180 degree ‘about face’ into vastly different circumstances; some good, others, less than stellar.
What remained constant, was the quality of connection I had with every character. They were real people to cheer on, pity, dislike, and congratulate. Valuable life lessons were skillfully interwoven in the fabric of every tale.
I deal with certain faulty world views, due to past experiences. When I first began to read this book, and things were going right for the character, I honestly waited for the other shoe to drop.
I was pleasantly shocked and pleased when the footwear remained firmly affixed and tied! My thought, Is this all there is? The question was posed in a positive and grateful way. I was very pleased. Why shouldn’t life be like that? Such a refreshing change!
I finished this book with a feeling of happiness and peace. There is still good in this world.
Thank you, Sally, for the salve. I would highly recommend this book to everyone. I think this is what the world needs.
There is no question that this book deserves FIVE STARS!
That being said, I thoroughly enjoyed this collection of short stories, sprinkled with meaningful poetry, each pertaining to the pervious story.
Flipping the pages into each new chapter, was to be whisked into another era, another life, a 180 degree ‘about face’ into vastly different circumstances; some good, others, less than stellar.
What remained constant, was the quality of connection I had with every character. They were real people to cheer on, pity, dislike, and congratulate. Valuable life lessons were skillfully interwoven in the fabric of every tale.
I deal with certain faulty world views, due to past experiences. When I first began to read this book, and things were going right for the character, I honestly waited for the other shoe to drop.
I was pleasantly shocked and pleased when the footwear remained firmly affixed and tied! My thought, Is this all there is? The question was posed in a positive and grateful way. I was very pleased. Why shouldn’t life be like that? Such a refreshing change!
I finished this book with a feeling of happiness and peace. There is still good in this world.
Thank you, Sally, for the salve. I would highly recommend this book to everyone. I think this is what the world needs.
There is no question that this book deserves FIVE STARS!
January 30, 2021
I always enjoy a good short story and have been known to write a few myself. I guess you would call me a particular guy when it comes to short stories. I generally am turned off if I can detect that there will be some cute, contrived ending designed to bring the reader to tears. You know the type. Husband and wife fall on hard times. She sells her hair to buy him a watch fob. He sells his watch to buy her a comb. Wait, that is an O’Henry story. Well, anyway, you get the idea. The stories in Life is Like a Bowl of Cherries have no such contrived circumstances.
These are stories from the heart. They are about some people you come to care about what happens to them. There are also stories of people who you get the feeling need a karma hit. In each case, Ms. Cronin does an excellent job developing circumstances that are just right for both.
I liked the fact that the book has convenient headings. In this way, the stories are all grouped into Technology, Connections, Winning Streak, Animal Magic, and Falling in and Out of Love. These headings alone will give the reader an idea of the kinds of stories in the book. Suffice it to say, there is a wide range of stories that should appeal to everyone.
I thoroughly enjoyed these stories and highly recommend the book to anyone who enjoys reading well-written work.
These are stories from the heart. They are about some people you come to care about what happens to them. There are also stories of people who you get the feeling need a karma hit. In each case, Ms. Cronin does an excellent job developing circumstances that are just right for both.
I liked the fact that the book has convenient headings. In this way, the stories are all grouped into Technology, Connections, Winning Streak, Animal Magic, and Falling in and Out of Love. These headings alone will give the reader an idea of the kinds of stories in the book. Suffice it to say, there is a wide range of stories that should appeal to everyone.
I thoroughly enjoyed these stories and highly recommend the book to anyone who enjoys reading well-written work.
December 27, 2020
Another wonderful book of heart-warming short stories.
After reading both volumes in the What’s In A Name series, I was thrilled when I heard that Sally Cronin was releasing another book of short stories, and Life is Like a Bowl of Cherries: Sometimes Bitter, Sometimes Sweet did not disappoint. This author has an incredible skill at weaving quite short stories that both entertain and tug at the heart-strings, with deeply believable characters.
Interspersed with these is a small number of exquisite short poems, mostly cinquains that beautifully reflect and reinforce the themes of the stories.
There is a lot of surprising humour, and even quite a few alarming shocks – just as in real life. A few of her characters have the worst of intentions.
Among my favourites was a deliciously satisfying tale about a wife’s revenge, a story that shows us it’s never too late for love, and one with a ghostly visitor that is sure to bring a tear to your eye.
I can’t recommend this book highly enough, and definitely rate it as 5 stars.
After reading both volumes in the What’s In A Name series, I was thrilled when I heard that Sally Cronin was releasing another book of short stories, and Life is Like a Bowl of Cherries: Sometimes Bitter, Sometimes Sweet did not disappoint. This author has an incredible skill at weaving quite short stories that both entertain and tug at the heart-strings, with deeply believable characters.
Interspersed with these is a small number of exquisite short poems, mostly cinquains that beautifully reflect and reinforce the themes of the stories.
There is a lot of surprising humour, and even quite a few alarming shocks – just as in real life. A few of her characters have the worst of intentions.
Among my favourites was a deliciously satisfying tale about a wife’s revenge, a story that shows us it’s never too late for love, and one with a ghostly visitor that is sure to bring a tear to your eye.
I can’t recommend this book highly enough, and definitely rate it as 5 stars.
December 19, 2020
Over the spread of a week, I read one story after another in Life is Like a Bowl of Cherries. Each one brought me home to my heart. The collection focuses on the everyday miracles of life, those unseen moments when a person makes a selfless decision to reach out to another person. The characters are ordinary folks. They might be your neighbor, your aunt or uncle, your dear friend. They are approachable, relatable...they are you and me. And because of this, there is a preciousness to this book. Well written and well edited, I highly recommend Sally Cronin's latest.
January 21, 2022
I found Sally Cronin’s Life Is Like a Bowl of Cherries: Sometimes Bitter, Sometimes Sweet (short stories and a sprinkling of poetry) to be a real pleasure to read–not a guilty pleasure but a pleasure to be celebrated and shared with other readers.
I particularly enjoyed how varied the collection is. From the opening story of an Artificial Intelligence nightmare in the grocery store to the closing story of a chance at love for a middle-aged woman always the florist, never the bride, I did not know what to expect next. Several of the stories include paranormal visitations. Cronin handles these visitations in a way that was entirely believable to me and, ultimately, comforting.
The primary themes of the stories are fate, love, loss, and kindness–and when kindness is egregiously lacking, revenge. The sprinkling of poetry focuses on love, family connections, and observations of animals. The standout poem for me was “The Visitor,” about “a ringed pigeon / weary and confused / blown off course by high winds.” How many of us have been there?
The collection even includes a haibun, “The Long Drop,” which takes a situation familiar to those of us who follow true crime shows–but in a brilliant twist adds a haiku. The combination of the microfiction and the haiku made my blood run cold.
The best way I can describe my experience of reading Life Is Like a Bowl of Cherries is that reading each story was like sitting down for a brief respite from the day’s troubles with a really good cup of coffee. When the story was finished, I could go on with my day refreshed–or indulge myself with another story.
I particularly enjoyed how varied the collection is. From the opening story of an Artificial Intelligence nightmare in the grocery store to the closing story of a chance at love for a middle-aged woman always the florist, never the bride, I did not know what to expect next. Several of the stories include paranormal visitations. Cronin handles these visitations in a way that was entirely believable to me and, ultimately, comforting.
The primary themes of the stories are fate, love, loss, and kindness–and when kindness is egregiously lacking, revenge. The sprinkling of poetry focuses on love, family connections, and observations of animals. The standout poem for me was “The Visitor,” about “a ringed pigeon / weary and confused / blown off course by high winds.” How many of us have been there?
The collection even includes a haibun, “The Long Drop,” which takes a situation familiar to those of us who follow true crime shows–but in a brilliant twist adds a haiku. The combination of the microfiction and the haiku made my blood run cold.
The best way I can describe my experience of reading Life Is Like a Bowl of Cherries is that reading each story was like sitting down for a brief respite from the day’s troubles with a really good cup of coffee. When the story was finished, I could go on with my day refreshed–or indulge myself with another story.
January 28, 2021
Having read two of Sally Cronin's previous books, I was confident that I would enjoy this collection of delightful short stories and poems. There wasn't an overall arching theme, but Cronin hooked me with a variety of entertaining reads involving love, loss, humor, revenge, and second chances.
The book opens with a hilarious story called The Weekly Shopping involving a character named Barbara who attempts to place a grocery order over the phone. What ensues is a comical and serious intrusion on her life when the store refuses to fill her order. It is the type of tale that reminds us that there is such a thing as too much information.
Another one of my favorites was The Scratch Card. After Elsie wins twenty pounds on a scratcher card, she uses the money in several noble ways to help others. Elsie and her husband, Peter, help get a young lad back on his feet. Will their acts of generosity be rewarded with more good fortune?
If you're the type of reader who likes a little romance, then you will likely enjoy The Date. Imagine that you are ninety-five-years old and a widow for fifty years. Would you even consider going out on a date when a stranger calls on the phone to announce you have won him as a date? Such is the question for Elsie as she must weigh the dilemma of whether or not to go on a date with a much younger man.
Another romantic tale is The Florist. Alice is accustomed to keeping her flower shop open later on Fridays so that the fellows who have been grabbing drinks after work can pick up some flowers for their significant other on the way home. Then, one evening a handsome gentleman named Frankie touches her heart. Is it possible that she, too, will become the recipient of flowers instead of the provider?
I read two or three short stories each night and finished Cronin's book in two-three hours. Her characters and interesting situations make for great reading. I highly recommend this book.
The book opens with a hilarious story called The Weekly Shopping involving a character named Barbara who attempts to place a grocery order over the phone. What ensues is a comical and serious intrusion on her life when the store refuses to fill her order. It is the type of tale that reminds us that there is such a thing as too much information.
Another one of my favorites was The Scratch Card. After Elsie wins twenty pounds on a scratcher card, she uses the money in several noble ways to help others. Elsie and her husband, Peter, help get a young lad back on his feet. Will their acts of generosity be rewarded with more good fortune?
If you're the type of reader who likes a little romance, then you will likely enjoy The Date. Imagine that you are ninety-five-years old and a widow for fifty years. Would you even consider going out on a date when a stranger calls on the phone to announce you have won him as a date? Such is the question for Elsie as she must weigh the dilemma of whether or not to go on a date with a much younger man.
Another romantic tale is The Florist. Alice is accustomed to keeping her flower shop open later on Fridays so that the fellows who have been grabbing drinks after work can pick up some flowers for their significant other on the way home. Then, one evening a handsome gentleman named Frankie touches her heart. Is it possible that she, too, will become the recipient of flowers instead of the provider?
I read two or three short stories each night and finished Cronin's book in two-three hours. Her characters and interesting situations make for great reading. I highly recommend this book.
January 6, 2021
Well, what can I say about Sally Cronin's latest collection of short stories and poetry?
It is a brilliant mix of bitter and sweet, a fine collection that I'm sure will appeal to everyone. In fact, I had so many favourite short stories and poems that I'd be hard put to try to pick just a few to highlight. Life is Like A Bowl of Cherries is a snapshot of life embracing all its complexities, with humour, joy and kindness.
Here were some of my personal favourites:
Short Stories: The Weekly Shopping (this will make you chuckle! A special one with dieters in mind!) The Date - (so humourous and sweet, think old lady out for a date but she sure does it in style!) The Wedding Day, The Scratch Card, (So lovely,) Long Lost Love, The Night Shift (A lovely tale of a Care home and a cat,) Gaffer Tape (about fortitude and overcoming domestic abuse,) The Gardening Assistant (Loss of a baby - this will touch the heart of many, especially those who have experienced such sadness, or miscarriage (as I have,) but the ending with the help of a furry friend brings light and hope.)
Some of my favourite poems: The Visitor, Garden Birds, Ritual of Mehndi.
My recommendation. A highly readable and touching book of short stories and poetry. 5 stars.
It is a brilliant mix of bitter and sweet, a fine collection that I'm sure will appeal to everyone. In fact, I had so many favourite short stories and poems that I'd be hard put to try to pick just a few to highlight. Life is Like A Bowl of Cherries is a snapshot of life embracing all its complexities, with humour, joy and kindness.
Here were some of my personal favourites:
Short Stories: The Weekly Shopping (this will make you chuckle! A special one with dieters in mind!) The Date - (so humourous and sweet, think old lady out for a date but she sure does it in style!) The Wedding Day, The Scratch Card, (So lovely,) Long Lost Love, The Night Shift (A lovely tale of a Care home and a cat,) Gaffer Tape (about fortitude and overcoming domestic abuse,) The Gardening Assistant (Loss of a baby - this will touch the heart of many, especially those who have experienced such sadness, or miscarriage (as I have,) but the ending with the help of a furry friend brings light and hope.)
Some of my favourite poems: The Visitor, Garden Birds, Ritual of Mehndi.
My recommendation. A highly readable and touching book of short stories and poetry. 5 stars.
February 7, 2021
This is an entertaining collection of short stories with several poems scattered throughout. The book is grouped into topics such as Technology, Animal Magic, and Connections (to name a few) with stories and poems related to their header topics appearing underneath. It’s cleverly presented and cleverly written. All of the stories are winners but there were some that really stood out for me, including The Weekly Shopping, The Nanny, The Scratch Card, and The Night Shift.
In The Weekly Shopping we get a taste of what ordering groceries might be like with when we come to rely too much on technology. It’s both hilariously funny and worrisome at the same time. I loved the argument related to the cat!
In The Nanny, a young couple discover who is watching over their baby at night. The Scratch Card left me with a lump in my throat at the generosity of others, and The Night Shift made me appreciate the special love pets have for their owners and the kindness of those who appreciate that bond.
These stories are heartwarming and touching, with scattered poetry further enriching the sections. A lovely collection and a quick read, the stories will lodge in your heart and linger.
In The Weekly Shopping we get a taste of what ordering groceries might be like with when we come to rely too much on technology. It’s both hilariously funny and worrisome at the same time. I loved the argument related to the cat!
In The Nanny, a young couple discover who is watching over their baby at night. The Scratch Card left me with a lump in my throat at the generosity of others, and The Night Shift made me appreciate the special love pets have for their owners and the kindness of those who appreciate that bond.
These stories are heartwarming and touching, with scattered poetry further enriching the sections. A lovely collection and a quick read, the stories will lodge in your heart and linger.
February 4, 2021
I was drawn in by the analogy – ‘Life is like a bowl of cherries.’ It led me into various alleys even before I opened the book. I love short stories and Sally’s stories regale you with various experiences that are woven into the inescapable web of life. The book begins with ‘The Weekly Shopping’ – the most appropriate, humorous yet grim comment on how technology has crept into our lives. It would make you wonder: can we escape such a trap?
Cronin’s Crisp style of writing, her adroit crafting of characters and her inspirational tone gleams through out the book. Kindness of Elsie would melt your heart when you read ‘The Scratch Card’ and ‘The Date’ would make you dance despite your age. Jennifer’s positivity and planning is superb while The Nanny took my heart away! It is hard to pick up a favorite story, as all of them tingle some emotional cord. A perfect combination of sour and sweet, I savored this “bowl of cherries,” which has a sprinkle of some lovely poetry. Highly recommended.
Cronin’s Crisp style of writing, her adroit crafting of characters and her inspirational tone gleams through out the book. Kindness of Elsie would melt your heart when you read ‘The Scratch Card’ and ‘The Date’ would make you dance despite your age. Jennifer’s positivity and planning is superb while The Nanny took my heart away! It is hard to pick up a favorite story, as all of them tingle some emotional cord. A perfect combination of sour and sweet, I savored this “bowl of cherries,” which has a sprinkle of some lovely poetry. Highly recommended.
March 2, 2021
An enjoyable read. Quite a variety of stories about different aspects of life - love, lost love, heartwarming and heartbreaking. I particularly enjoyed the stories where kindness was king.
January 8, 2021
We have all enjoyed a bowl of cherries and came across the sour ones which elicited a shudder...This little book of short stories and poems has the perfect title as it delights, enthrals and brings a tear to the eye at times as some of the stories tug at the heartstrings and long-buried memories resurface and leave us the reader both happy and a touch sad in a nice way.
There are stories and poems of hope and long lost love my favourite from the very beginning was "The Weekly Shopping" it made me smile at the shopper's frustration I could feel her anger and disbelief...I love it!
However, it also made me think...that scenario which played out could well be not so very far away...Think Alexis and Suri...Just saying!
A very pleasurable read which left me with a smile on my face and some memories.
There are stories and poems of hope and long lost love my favourite from the very beginning was "The Weekly Shopping" it made me smile at the shopper's frustration I could feel her anger and disbelief...I love it!
However, it also made me think...that scenario which played out could well be not so very far away...Think Alexis and Suri...Just saying!
A very pleasurable read which left me with a smile on my face and some memories.
February 12, 2021
Short stories have become "the thing" now. Until recently, short stories didn't receive that much respect, particularly compared to novels. But in the past few years, more readers are appreciating the sharp intake of breath that can be delivered by a well-written short story. And that is exactly what Sally Cronin delivers here in her Bowl of Short Story Cherries. Like life, each story does not end up happy. But neither do they all end up bitter or sour. In fact, Cronin offers her readers a glimpse into "real life" with characters who could be your next store neighbor. Characters who search for love or money or happiness and find it, perhaps, in the least likely places. A few of Cronin's stories caught me with a tear or two, as well as with a burst of laughter. That's the kind of stories I like, where the characters' emotions mirror mine, and we all learn our lessons in unexpected ways.
January 13, 2021
Reading Life is Like a Bowl of Cherries, Sally Cronin’s new book, was time well spent, it was a breath of fresh air in a what had become a very stale world.
Each beautifully written story and the interwoven poems reminded me of what life is really like, far away from all the sadness and disappointments that 2020 has dumped on us all.
I loved all the stories, but I know that some of them will be remembered better than the others. These are the ones that struck a familiar chord with me personally.
Like The Wedding Day, with its message of hope.
The sadness of Long-Lost Love and the Gaffer Tape, so satisfying!
My favourite must be The Nanny, I needed tissues for this one!
I can thoroughly recommend this book as the perfect escape from life and all of its problems!
Each beautifully written story and the interwoven poems reminded me of what life is really like, far away from all the sadness and disappointments that 2020 has dumped on us all.
I loved all the stories, but I know that some of them will be remembered better than the others. These are the ones that struck a familiar chord with me personally.
Like The Wedding Day, with its message of hope.
The sadness of Long-Lost Love and the Gaffer Tape, so satisfying!
My favourite must be The Nanny, I needed tissues for this one!
I can thoroughly recommend this book as the perfect escape from life and all of its problems!
February 2, 2021
I enjoyed the first story. Mainly because our lives and everything we do is so wrapped up in the apps on our phones and computers. However, each successive story seemed to be about a paranormal encounter. Not horror, per se, but someone at a crossroads and a ghost helps them. Not my cup of tea. If you like that sort of thing, this book is for you. If not, leave it on the shelf for someone who does. I will say, what I read was well written, but again, just not my cup of tea.
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