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The Tin Whistle
Inspired by a true story... 1854 Jacob Gusky wakes up hoping Santa has arrived. And he has... but not for Jacob, one of two Jewish boys living at the Boys’ Home of Manhattan. When a friend gifts him a tin whistle, Jacob learns the power of giving, the joy in receiving, and hears what he considers to be the sound of happiness. 1881 Recently widowed and completely out of options, Frannie takes her daughter Molly to the Home for the Friendless. “You’ll be back before Christmas?” Molly asks. Frannie gives Molly half a quilt square and keeps the other, choking on her reply. Now a happily married father of three, Jacob Gusky owns Gusky’s Grand Emporium, Pittsburgh’s first premier department store. After unearthing the tin whistle from the orphanage, he is reminded of what it felt like to have nothing, and decides to make a difference in the lives of others no matter their faith. But with so little time before Christmas morning, can he even begin to give the orphaned children of Pittsburgh what he knows they need? When giving is more important than receiving...
108 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 14, 2020
18 people are currently reading
166 people want to read
About the author
Kathleen Shoop
49 books1,126 followersBestselling author, Kathleen Shoop, holds a PhD in reading education and has more than 20 years of experience in the classroom. She writes historical fiction, women’s fiction and romance. Shoop’s novels have garnered various awards in the Independent Publisher Book Awards, Eric Hoffer Book Awards, Indie Excellence Awards, Next Generation Indie Book Awards and the San Francisco Book Festival. Kathleen has been featured in USA Today and the Writer’s Guide to 2013. Her work has appeared in The Tribune-Review, four Chicken Soup for the Soul books and Pittsburgh Parent magazine. She lives in Oakmont, Pennsylvania with her husband and two children.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
November 24, 2022
This is my eigthth Christmas read this November and one of the very best. Set in late 19th century Pittsburgh, PA, and based on the story of the real life Jacob Gusky (jewishhistoryhhc.org), this is an inspiring story. Jacob was a Jewish man who spent time in an orphanage as a boy. In that home, only Christian children received presents during the holiday season, but the kind gesture of a Christian boy who had received two gifts and offered both of them to his two Jewish friends made a strong lifelong impression on Jacob. Years later as Jacob’s department store business became wildly successful, his extraordinary altruism and recognition of the true meaning not only of Christmas but of the worth of every human being subsequently led to a remarkable life of giving. This touching holiday novella is based on Jacob and his efforts to reunite a little girl with her homeless mother. Highly recommended for all.
November 14, 2021
I love when a book is based on a true story. It gives it an authentic and historical feel that I crave in fiction. And when the book’s setting is Christmastime—it’s a double blessing!
The Tin Whistle is a nostalgic and meaningful tale taking place in 1800s Pittsburgh with a theme of loving one another. Young Jacob Gusky is a Jewish orphan. He and his friend, who is also Jewish, are excluded and deeply pained at Christmastime when Santa delivers gifts to only the Christian children. But a sweet boy with a charitable soul forever changes Jacob with a kind deed. Later in life, Jacob shows his heart of gold with his own acts of generosity and caring. It’s a wonderful example of how we are molded when we are young.
I am so touched and inspired by this heartwarming tale. The characters are charming and the atmosphere, although at times a bit sad, leaves me with a full heart and a sated soul. Ms. Shoop has created a memorable and meaningful Christmas story!
I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.
The Tin Whistle is a nostalgic and meaningful tale taking place in 1800s Pittsburgh with a theme of loving one another. Young Jacob Gusky is a Jewish orphan. He and his friend, who is also Jewish, are excluded and deeply pained at Christmastime when Santa delivers gifts to only the Christian children. But a sweet boy with a charitable soul forever changes Jacob with a kind deed. Later in life, Jacob shows his heart of gold with his own acts of generosity and caring. It’s a wonderful example of how we are molded when we are young.
I am so touched and inspired by this heartwarming tale. The characters are charming and the atmosphere, although at times a bit sad, leaves me with a full heart and a sated soul. Ms. Shoop has created a memorable and meaningful Christmas story!
I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.
November 23, 2021
If you have a penchant for captivatingly detailed historical reads, then I would highly recommend Kathleen Shoop. I've become an avid reader of her work over the last couple of years, and every story she writes completely encapsulates me and leaves me with all kinds of thoughts and feelings. Tin Whistle was no exception, and put me in that light-hearted Christmas spirit, and the moral of giving back and remembering those who perhaps aren't as fortunate felt prominent.
The book focuses around two characters over two differing timelines; A young Jacob Gusky in 1854 and Frannie a destitute widow who is forced to make an impossibly heart-wrenching decision.
Jacob was a poor boy who grew up in a Boys home. He's experienced having nothing, but remembers a true act of kindness when he was given a small tin whistle. Now that he has forged a successful career for himself, the memory evokes a need for him to give back.
This story is a true page-turner that totally highlighted so many thought provoking morals. To remember those who aren't as fortunate, to help people if you have the means as you never know if/when you may need it, and also that it doesn't matter your faith or religion, everyone is capable of being nice to one another.
I adored this book and would recommend to those looking for a good historically festive read. It is detailed, the imagery on point and Shoop always transports me back to another place in time and enables my imagination to run free.
The book focuses around two characters over two differing timelines; A young Jacob Gusky in 1854 and Frannie a destitute widow who is forced to make an impossibly heart-wrenching decision.
Jacob was a poor boy who grew up in a Boys home. He's experienced having nothing, but remembers a true act of kindness when he was given a small tin whistle. Now that he has forged a successful career for himself, the memory evokes a need for him to give back.
This story is a true page-turner that totally highlighted so many thought provoking morals. To remember those who aren't as fortunate, to help people if you have the means as you never know if/when you may need it, and also that it doesn't matter your faith or religion, everyone is capable of being nice to one another.
I adored this book and would recommend to those looking for a good historically festive read. It is detailed, the imagery on point and Shoop always transports me back to another place in time and enables my imagination to run free.
November 15, 2021
Kathleen Shoop has become one of my favorite author’s to review. Her books are always well written with a beautiful and thoughtful meaning behind each story, and The Tin Whistle is no different. This book was inspired by a true story, which makes it even more special. The story starts out with a heartwarming exchange between kids in a boy’s home, and automatically gives new meaning to giving and receiving. Jacob Gusky is given a tin whistle, and thus kicks off this beautiful novella.
Jacob Gusky grows up, marries, becomes a father, and owner of Gusky’s Grand Emporium, Pittsburgh’s first premier department store. The tin whistle is discovered and Jacob remembers what it is like to have nothing and decides to make a difference. Jacob’s decision to give back leaves you feeling a bit more hope in humanity. Kathleen did a wonderful job of making you feel like you were right there in the 1800s with Jacob.
There were points in this book that brought a tear to my eye. It is a heartwarming Christmas read that I would encourage anybody who loves the season to read. If you haven’t picked up any of Kathleen’s other books, do that too!
Jacob Gusky grows up, marries, becomes a father, and owner of Gusky’s Grand Emporium, Pittsburgh’s first premier department store. The tin whistle is discovered and Jacob remembers what it is like to have nothing and decides to make a difference. Jacob’s decision to give back leaves you feeling a bit more hope in humanity. Kathleen did a wonderful job of making you feel like you were right there in the 1800s with Jacob.
There were points in this book that brought a tear to my eye. It is a heartwarming Christmas read that I would encourage anybody who loves the season to read. If you haven’t picked up any of Kathleen’s other books, do that too!
November 19, 2021
What an inspiring read!
This story was heart warming, inspirational… perfect, not only for the upcoming holiday season, but really a lesson to live by year round.
The Tin Whistle is based on a true story. Jacob Gusky is a real life person and his 1881 Christmas was true. All of which makes this story all the more emotional.
I am a big believer in paying it forward when I can and I always wish I could do more. I may not be a Jacob Gusky and may not be able to do what he did on the scale that he did it; but I certainly can give when I can (which I do, but always want to do more).
The Tin Whistle is an amazing lesson (or reminder) that love and family are enough; when you have that, then you have enough to give to those who have nothing.
Just thinking of the story from beginning to end, gives me goosebumps and brings a tear to my eye. It really is such an amazing story. Definitely one to keep out in the open as an conversation starter and a book everyone should read – big and small. I can only hope that I have taught my children to be givers like Jacob and Molly. (And rest assured, this will definitely be a story I share with my kiddos each year from here forward as a reminder to give to those who are not as fortunate.)
This story was heart warming, inspirational… perfect, not only for the upcoming holiday season, but really a lesson to live by year round.
The Tin Whistle is based on a true story. Jacob Gusky is a real life person and his 1881 Christmas was true. All of which makes this story all the more emotional.
I am a big believer in paying it forward when I can and I always wish I could do more. I may not be a Jacob Gusky and may not be able to do what he did on the scale that he did it; but I certainly can give when I can (which I do, but always want to do more).
The Tin Whistle is an amazing lesson (or reminder) that love and family are enough; when you have that, then you have enough to give to those who have nothing.
Just thinking of the story from beginning to end, gives me goosebumps and brings a tear to my eye. It really is such an amazing story. Definitely one to keep out in the open as an conversation starter and a book everyone should read – big and small. I can only hope that I have taught my children to be givers like Jacob and Molly. (And rest assured, this will definitely be a story I share with my kiddos each year from here forward as a reminder to give to those who are not as fortunate.)
November 16, 2021
Genuinely moved me so much whilst following the story of Molly, Frannie, Jacob, and all those around them. As with all Kathleen's books, she seems to touch your soul with her words, which is why I've read this story three times.
An act of remarkable kindness from successful store owner Jacob sets the scene built from remembering the hardships he faced in a children's home years back and the feeling of having nothing to cherish of his very own until a friend selflessly gifted him a tin whistle.
Meanwhile, Molly and Frannie find themselves destitute through no fault of their own, and Frannie faces the hardest decision a mother has to make.
Yet both stories will touch each other through fate for a truly emotional read, and will definitely light up the festive spirit within you for sure.
A beautiful thought provoking, inspiring, and touching read.
An act of remarkable kindness from successful store owner Jacob sets the scene built from remembering the hardships he faced in a children's home years back and the feeling of having nothing to cherish of his very own until a friend selflessly gifted him a tin whistle.
Meanwhile, Molly and Frannie find themselves destitute through no fault of their own, and Frannie faces the hardest decision a mother has to make.
Yet both stories will touch each other through fate for a truly emotional read, and will definitely light up the festive spirit within you for sure.
A beautiful thought provoking, inspiring, and touching read.
November 18, 2021
If you're looking for a story to enjoy this season, this is it! It's guaranteed to have you feeling snuggly, warm, and to open your heart. Knowing that this is based on a true story adds to special feelings you get while reading. As with all of her books, Shoop develops the characters and setting so deeply that you feel transported inside the story. We can all always use the reminder of the true meaning behind giving/receiving, but there is an extra nudge during the holiday season. It also serves as a reminder of how one simple act of kindness can impact a life by leaps and bounds. Your heart will swell with the emotional journey the two timelines share, but by the end, you'll feel a fulfillment like no other.
I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.
I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.
November 15, 2021
This was a heartwarming novella, perfect to get into the Christmas spirit this year. Traveling back through history to Pittsburgh in the late 1800s, we are surrounded by a time long gone. Jacob's story is so sweet, showing how even the smallest acts of kindness can bring great joy and changes. I will admit at times I had tears in my eyes, but at others I couldn't stop smiling. An absolutely wonderful Christmas tale that will warm your heart just in time for the holiday season.
November 5, 2021
This is such a lovely story. One that will get you right into the Christmas spirit and one you will want to read each and every year around this time. The Tin Whistle is a great reminder that giving is so much more important than receiving! I loved reading this short story and didn't want it to end. A perfect and heartwarming Christmas story!
November 9, 2021
My initial review was short and sweet.
A wonderful novel based in one of my favorite cities, Pittsburgh. A Jewish man teaches many Christians the meaning of Christmas.
Here is a more in-depth review.
My initial review of this book on Goodreads was short and sweet. I was waiting until a later date to discuss the book in detail.
First, any book where the majority of it is set in Pittsburgh is a must read in my life. I know the Pittsburgh area intimately and have seen the changes that have taken place in that city since the early to mid 1980s. I love reading about it in a time when I was not or have not been there.
Second, a lesson. This is a great chapter book to read with children. Adults also should take heed. The lesson in this book by Kathleen Shoop is one that is always important and frequently forgotten. To have a Jewish family teach us all the most Christian of lessons - to love our neighbors as ourselves - holds so much deep meaning.
Pick up a copy of The Tin Whistle. You will not be disappointed. I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.
A wonderful novel based in one of my favorite cities, Pittsburgh. A Jewish man teaches many Christians the meaning of Christmas.
Here is a more in-depth review.
My initial review of this book on Goodreads was short and sweet. I was waiting until a later date to discuss the book in detail.
First, any book where the majority of it is set in Pittsburgh is a must read in my life. I know the Pittsburgh area intimately and have seen the changes that have taken place in that city since the early to mid 1980s. I love reading about it in a time when I was not or have not been there.
Second, a lesson. This is a great chapter book to read with children. Adults also should take heed. The lesson in this book by Kathleen Shoop is one that is always important and frequently forgotten. To have a Jewish family teach us all the most Christian of lessons - to love our neighbors as ourselves - holds so much deep meaning.
Pick up a copy of The Tin Whistle. You will not be disappointed. I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.
July 31, 2025
“…I thought Santa was for everyone who believed.”
On a chilly Christmas morning in 1854, the air in the orphanage was filled with anticipation as Jacob Gusky listened intently to the soft thuds of boots on the roof—was that Santa Claus he heard, busily delivering presents to all the children? However, as the dawn light broke through the windows, the thrill of the morning quickly faded. Jacob glanced at the beautifully decorated tree, hoping to find gifts nestled beneath the branches, only to realise that for him and his best friend Amos, there were no presents—Christian charity had not extended to young Jewish orphans. Meanwhile, Michael Larson, another kind-hearted child in the orphanage, could not bear the sight of his friends' disappointment. Seeing Jacob and Amos with empty hands ignited a deep sorrow within him. Inspired by compassion, Michael decided to share his own presents—a gleaming tin whistle and a drum. With a determined heart, he approached his friends, eager to bring some joy into their lives. Unbeknownst to the children, this simple yet profound act of kindness and friendship would later inspire Jacob to do everything he could to bring Santa to as many impoverished children as possible, regardless of their religion.
In “The Tin Whistle (‘Tis the Season Book 2)” by Kathleen Shoop, readers are drawn into a heartfelt narrative centred around Jacob M. Gusky, a compassionate department store owner whose kindness shines during the holiday season. As the story unfolds, Jacob reflects on his childhood spent in an orphanage, where the sounds of laughter and friendship masked the deeper longing for family. One memorable Christmas Day, a selfless gift from a dear friend, wrapped in simple joy, left a lasting impression on Jacob’s heart. This poignant memory serves as the catalyst for Jacob’s dedicated mission to spread joy and hope to children who, like him, have experienced loneliness during the holiday season. He embarks on an ambitious plan, rallying his colleagues and their families, and embodying the spirit of Santa Claus as he organises a heartfelt initiative to deliver gifts to every orphanage in the city. Jacob’s inspiring story captivates readers with its vivid portrayal of compassion and generosity, beautifully illustrating the transformative power of kindness and the true spirit of giving during the holidays.
Based on the real-life experiences of Jacob M. Gusky, the author invites readers to travel back in time to his unforgettable first Christmas Day Gift Tour. Through vivid descriptions and heartfelt moments, the story beautifully captures the joy and wonder of the holiday season, making it a perfect read for anyone looking to embrace the spirit of Christmas cheer.
Jacob is portrayed as a devoted family man whose love for his wife and children is both profound and unwavering. His passion for family life is matched only by his professional success as a businessman. With a remarkable talent for advertising, he skilfully navigates the competitive world of retail, leading his department store to remarkable achievements. Despite his wealth, which often feels overwhelming, Jacob finds himself reflecting on the Jewish principle of Tzedakah, contemplating whether he can do more to assist those less fortunate. This introspection stems from a deep-seated desire to ensure that no child experiences the suffering he endured on that fateful Christmas day long ago. As a character, Jacob exudes charm and likability, but his relentless ambition can sometimes overwhelm those around him. His family frequently adapts to his single-minded focus on work and success, leading to an intricate balance between personal ambition and familial duty. Beneath this driven exterior lies a man of profound compassion, and this quality beautifully illuminates his story, which is told with heart and depth.
A compelling parallel story unfolds alongside Jacob's narrative, centring on Frannie and her beloved daughter, Molly. In the wake of a devastating business misstep, Frannie’s husband, Charles, succumbs to despair and takes his own life, leaving Frannie and Molly in a harrowing state of destitution. Their once-comfortable life is suddenly transformed into a struggle for survival. Frannie, who had relished the comforts of wealth and security, now finds herself gripped by desperation as she scrambles to secure employment. The weight of her circumstances bears heavily on her, especially when she realises that, despite her best efforts, she cannot provide for Molly’s necessities: a place to sleep and food to eat. With a heart full of anguish, she makes the heart-wrenching decision to place her daughter in the Home of the Friendless. This choice, while agonising, stems from her deep love and commitment to ensuring the best possible future for Molly. Now, Frannie must face the daunting challenge of finding a job, a task that feels nearly impossible given her circumstances. Her journey is teeming with a myriad of challenges and obstacles that test her resolve, yet it strikes a profound chord with readers, drawing them into her experiences and emotions. Frannie’s plight is a poignant tale of a mother’s unwavering love and the relentless pursuit of hope as she strives to navigate her way from the depths of despair into the light of a better tomorrow.
The historical depictions are vividly brought to life, capturing the stark contrast between settings. The brightly lit department store, with its gleaming windows and colourful displays, exudes an air of opulence and abundance. In sharp contrast, the orphanage looms with a sense of desolation, its cold, austere walls echoing the stories of hardship. This juxtaposition serves as a poignant reminder to the reader of how closely intertwined poverty and wealth often are, each existing in stark contrast against the other.
“The Tin Whistle (‘Tis the Season Book 2)” by Kathleen Shoop is a heart-warming tale that beautifully captures the essence of hope and the magic of Christmas wishes. The story’s well-crafted characters and narrative lead readers on an emotional journey, full of glad tidings. As the narrative unfolds, it leaves a lasting impression that lingers in the hearts of readers long after they have turned the final page, inviting them to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas and the difference one man can make to so many.
Review by Mary Anne Yarde
The Coffee Pot Book Club
On a chilly Christmas morning in 1854, the air in the orphanage was filled with anticipation as Jacob Gusky listened intently to the soft thuds of boots on the roof—was that Santa Claus he heard, busily delivering presents to all the children? However, as the dawn light broke through the windows, the thrill of the morning quickly faded. Jacob glanced at the beautifully decorated tree, hoping to find gifts nestled beneath the branches, only to realise that for him and his best friend Amos, there were no presents—Christian charity had not extended to young Jewish orphans. Meanwhile, Michael Larson, another kind-hearted child in the orphanage, could not bear the sight of his friends' disappointment. Seeing Jacob and Amos with empty hands ignited a deep sorrow within him. Inspired by compassion, Michael decided to share his own presents—a gleaming tin whistle and a drum. With a determined heart, he approached his friends, eager to bring some joy into their lives. Unbeknownst to the children, this simple yet profound act of kindness and friendship would later inspire Jacob to do everything he could to bring Santa to as many impoverished children as possible, regardless of their religion.
In “The Tin Whistle (‘Tis the Season Book 2)” by Kathleen Shoop, readers are drawn into a heartfelt narrative centred around Jacob M. Gusky, a compassionate department store owner whose kindness shines during the holiday season. As the story unfolds, Jacob reflects on his childhood spent in an orphanage, where the sounds of laughter and friendship masked the deeper longing for family. One memorable Christmas Day, a selfless gift from a dear friend, wrapped in simple joy, left a lasting impression on Jacob’s heart. This poignant memory serves as the catalyst for Jacob’s dedicated mission to spread joy and hope to children who, like him, have experienced loneliness during the holiday season. He embarks on an ambitious plan, rallying his colleagues and their families, and embodying the spirit of Santa Claus as he organises a heartfelt initiative to deliver gifts to every orphanage in the city. Jacob’s inspiring story captivates readers with its vivid portrayal of compassion and generosity, beautifully illustrating the transformative power of kindness and the true spirit of giving during the holidays.
Based on the real-life experiences of Jacob M. Gusky, the author invites readers to travel back in time to his unforgettable first Christmas Day Gift Tour. Through vivid descriptions and heartfelt moments, the story beautifully captures the joy and wonder of the holiday season, making it a perfect read for anyone looking to embrace the spirit of Christmas cheer.
Jacob is portrayed as a devoted family man whose love for his wife and children is both profound and unwavering. His passion for family life is matched only by his professional success as a businessman. With a remarkable talent for advertising, he skilfully navigates the competitive world of retail, leading his department store to remarkable achievements. Despite his wealth, which often feels overwhelming, Jacob finds himself reflecting on the Jewish principle of Tzedakah, contemplating whether he can do more to assist those less fortunate. This introspection stems from a deep-seated desire to ensure that no child experiences the suffering he endured on that fateful Christmas day long ago. As a character, Jacob exudes charm and likability, but his relentless ambition can sometimes overwhelm those around him. His family frequently adapts to his single-minded focus on work and success, leading to an intricate balance between personal ambition and familial duty. Beneath this driven exterior lies a man of profound compassion, and this quality beautifully illuminates his story, which is told with heart and depth.
A compelling parallel story unfolds alongside Jacob's narrative, centring on Frannie and her beloved daughter, Molly. In the wake of a devastating business misstep, Frannie’s husband, Charles, succumbs to despair and takes his own life, leaving Frannie and Molly in a harrowing state of destitution. Their once-comfortable life is suddenly transformed into a struggle for survival. Frannie, who had relished the comforts of wealth and security, now finds herself gripped by desperation as she scrambles to secure employment. The weight of her circumstances bears heavily on her, especially when she realises that, despite her best efforts, she cannot provide for Molly’s necessities: a place to sleep and food to eat. With a heart full of anguish, she makes the heart-wrenching decision to place her daughter in the Home of the Friendless. This choice, while agonising, stems from her deep love and commitment to ensuring the best possible future for Molly. Now, Frannie must face the daunting challenge of finding a job, a task that feels nearly impossible given her circumstances. Her journey is teeming with a myriad of challenges and obstacles that test her resolve, yet it strikes a profound chord with readers, drawing them into her experiences and emotions. Frannie’s plight is a poignant tale of a mother’s unwavering love and the relentless pursuit of hope as she strives to navigate her way from the depths of despair into the light of a better tomorrow.
The historical depictions are vividly brought to life, capturing the stark contrast between settings. The brightly lit department store, with its gleaming windows and colourful displays, exudes an air of opulence and abundance. In sharp contrast, the orphanage looms with a sense of desolation, its cold, austere walls echoing the stories of hardship. This juxtaposition serves as a poignant reminder to the reader of how closely intertwined poverty and wealth often are, each existing in stark contrast against the other.
“The Tin Whistle (‘Tis the Season Book 2)” by Kathleen Shoop is a heart-warming tale that beautifully captures the essence of hope and the magic of Christmas wishes. The story’s well-crafted characters and narrative lead readers on an emotional journey, full of glad tidings. As the narrative unfolds, it leaves a lasting impression that lingers in the hearts of readers long after they have turned the final page, inviting them to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas and the difference one man can make to so many.
Review by Mary Anne Yarde
The Coffee Pot Book Club
December 1, 2022
Kathleen Shoop’s The Tin Whistle is a heartwarming holiday novella set in Pittsburgh the mid-1800s. I didn’t realize until the very end that it is based on a real-life humanitarian, Jacob Gusky. Gusky was a successful merchant and philanthropist who had very humble beginnings. In fact, this was the reason for his generosity. As a Jew, he felt strongly the call to perform tzedakah, charitable giving, which was seen as a moral obligation. He felt this deeply in his soul because of a kindness done for him when he was a child in a Christian orphanage. A Christian boy reached out to him and his friend out of kindness and compassion. Now, as an adult, he wants to help others, especially children, no matter what their belief. He vows to make the holiday a happy time for children, bringing Santa’s gifts to Christian children, as well as gifts and food to Jews and other non-Christians.
This story is not just Jacob’s story. It is also the story of a mother, Frannie, and her young daughter Molly. They fall upon hard times when their husband/father dies suddenly and leaves them in financial straits. Frannie and Molly are separated for a time while Frannie tries to find employment and a new home for the two of them.
Ms. Shoop alternates the two storylines, with Jacob trying to balance his family life with his mission to help others. He has difficulty convincing his wife that they have more than enough to give. Then he finds the whistle – the gift he received as a present so long ago! The symbol of generosity that inspires him. Frannie frets that she will be unable to find work and that Molly will have to stay at the orphanage. Molly does her best to adjust, but she misses her mother. Eventually, of course, there is a merger – a happy day indeed.
The Tin Whistle is written for the winter holidays, and it is wonderful to see Gusky's inclusiveness, as I’ve often wondered how it must feel to be “other” in a society that focuses so much on Christmas. In reading about Jacob Gusky, it is apparent that he kept the spirit of tzedakah year-round. Sadly, he died much too young at the age of 40.
4 stars
This story is not just Jacob’s story. It is also the story of a mother, Frannie, and her young daughter Molly. They fall upon hard times when their husband/father dies suddenly and leaves them in financial straits. Frannie and Molly are separated for a time while Frannie tries to find employment and a new home for the two of them.
Ms. Shoop alternates the two storylines, with Jacob trying to balance his family life with his mission to help others. He has difficulty convincing his wife that they have more than enough to give. Then he finds the whistle – the gift he received as a present so long ago! The symbol of generosity that inspires him. Frannie frets that she will be unable to find work and that Molly will have to stay at the orphanage. Molly does her best to adjust, but she misses her mother. Eventually, of course, there is a merger – a happy day indeed.
The Tin Whistle is written for the winter holidays, and it is wonderful to see Gusky's inclusiveness, as I’ve often wondered how it must feel to be “other” in a society that focuses so much on Christmas. In reading about Jacob Gusky, it is apparent that he kept the spirit of tzedakah year-round. Sadly, he died much too young at the age of 40.
4 stars
December 28, 2020
I received the paperback version of this book in the mail. I had no idea that it was going to be sent to me but I will be forever grateful. I have read many of this author's books before and have loved every single one of them-you may have noticed my reviews over the years.
This short novel is the MOST inspirational novel I have ever had the pleasure of reading. According to the author it was inspired by a true story. It is the story of a young orphan boy who was given a present one Christmas by another orphan because he (and his room mate) had not received a thing. "He heard the sound of happiness" and it ultimately shaped his life.
Although parts are heart breaking-the ending will warm your hearts and you will know the true meaning of giving and receiving and the happiness that can accrue from both.
I will be handing this book over to one of my friends who I know will appreciate it and asking her to hand it on to someone else when she is done. Whether you get the paperback or ultimately the kindle version I hope you do the same.
This short novel is the MOST inspirational novel I have ever had the pleasure of reading. According to the author it was inspired by a true story. It is the story of a young orphan boy who was given a present one Christmas by another orphan because he (and his room mate) had not received a thing. "He heard the sound of happiness" and it ultimately shaped his life.
Although parts are heart breaking-the ending will warm your hearts and you will know the true meaning of giving and receiving and the happiness that can accrue from both.
I will be handing this book over to one of my friends who I know will appreciate it and asking her to hand it on to someone else when she is done. Whether you get the paperback or ultimately the kindle version I hope you do the same.
November 19, 2021
The Tin Whistle is one of those heart-warming stories that will get everyone who reads it into the Christmas spirit. Inspired by a true story Ms. Shoop weaves her historical magic and transports us to Pittsburgh in the 1800's - told over two timelines one in 1854 and 1881 we follow Jacob Gusky from his time in the children's home to his rich live as the owner of Pittsburgh’s first premier department store - Gusky’s Grand Emporium.
When Jacob was in the children's home he as given a tin whistle by a fellow child at Christmas as because he is Jewish he never received a gift, many years later Jacob finds the tin whistle and is reminded of the generosity of that child who gave it to him and he decides he will also give back.
This book serves as a lesson and a great reminder that giving is so much more important than receiving - a Jewish man teaching Christians to give more.
When Jacob was in the children's home he as given a tin whistle by a fellow child at Christmas as because he is Jewish he never received a gift, many years later Jacob finds the tin whistle and is reminded of the generosity of that child who gave it to him and he decides he will also give back.
This book serves as a lesson and a great reminder that giving is so much more important than receiving - a Jewish man teaching Christians to give more.
November 24, 2021
When it rains, it pours
I enjoyed reading this short story. It is short but it is the best book that I read this year. If I could give it 10 stars and I would.
I seldom cry while reading a book but I did sob with this emotional story. Life indeed is no guarantee. One day you are up and the next day you are down. When it rains, it pours. It is the reason that we should always be kind and humble.
There are some good people out there like Jacob and his family. I would do the same. There are gifts that cannot be found or buy anywhere in the store. At the specific moment in that story, I sobbed. The tears in my eyes will not stop falling. It doesn't help that my Mom is halfway around far away from me.
Ms. Kathleen Shoop delivered the best book and Christmas for me and all her readers with this book. Please get your Kleenex ready. Trust me, you will need a box.
I enjoyed reading this short story. It is short but it is the best book that I read this year. If I could give it 10 stars and I would.
I seldom cry while reading a book but I did sob with this emotional story. Life indeed is no guarantee. One day you are up and the next day you are down. When it rains, it pours. It is the reason that we should always be kind and humble.
There are some good people out there like Jacob and his family. I would do the same. There are gifts that cannot be found or buy anywhere in the store. At the specific moment in that story, I sobbed. The tears in my eyes will not stop falling. It doesn't help that my Mom is halfway around far away from me.
Ms. Kathleen Shoop delivered the best book and Christmas for me and all her readers with this book. Please get your Kleenex ready. Trust me, you will need a box.
November 11, 2021
This is such an amazing, heartfelt holiday story, that reminds us all of the spirit of the season! Set in Pittsburgh in the 1800s, the story transcends time and location and could have been set anywhere, at any time.
This is a very quick novella, with very well fleshed-out characters, and is based on a true story. I feel like it should be read every year to remind us to help others in need, during the holidays and everyday.
If you only have time to read one book this season, this should be your choice!
I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.
December 26, 2020
My Musings
This is such a fantastic Christmas story with great characters and a very unique plot. There are also several wonderful messages on the importance of giving at this time of year. I am so glad I found this book. Happy ☺reading 📚!
This is such a fantastic Christmas story with great characters and a very unique plot. There are also several wonderful messages on the importance of giving at this time of year. I am so glad I found this book. Happy ☺reading 📚!
October 14, 2021
This was a really sweet story. Many kids, after enduring traumas and exclusion would have ended up bitter, but Jacob turns those experiences to compassion.
It isn’t every day that a Jewish man embodies the spirit of Christmas to a whole town. This quick read is definitely worth picking up.
It isn’t every day that a Jewish man embodies the spirit of Christmas to a whole town. This quick read is definitely worth picking up.
February 17, 2023
Great book!
Another great read from Kathleen! It's a heartfelt book that does it all. A page turner for sure, as all her books are. Everyone should read this book! It made me cry I had trouble seeing the pages, but, it was a good cry. Well tears, not a sobbing cry! I loved it!
Another great read from Kathleen! It's a heartfelt book that does it all. A page turner for sure, as all her books are. Everyone should read this book! It made me cry I had trouble seeing the pages, but, it was a good cry. Well tears, not a sobbing cry! I loved it!
December 23, 2023
Another quick and easy read to get you into the holiday spirit. Makes you appreciate all that you have and all you can share with those less fortunate. Like how these books do not have to be read in order to
November 15, 2021
Lovely story. Short read with a big heart!
November 18, 2023
Another heart warming Christmas story of selfless kind deeds. To stop a sad history from repeating itself, one man’s journey can change the world of many in a wonderful way. A good read!
December 10, 2023
A sentimental Christmas tale about an act of generosity that sparks another. A little syrupy, but that seems to be alright at Christmas time. It is also nice that this is based on a true story.
February 15, 2025
Sweet story.
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