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The Only Way Home
Desperate times. Danger on the rails. A journey to save a family.
It is 1933 inside a sweltering courtroom in Macon, Georgia. Fifteen-year-old Robert sits on a bench awaiting sentencing after being picked up for vagrancy and spending a night in jail. He left his home in Illinois with a neighborhood friend to ride the rails and find work to help their families. The friend turned back, too afraid to face the perils ahead. But going back empty-handed isn’t an option for Robert.
THE ONLY WAY HOME is the story of one boy’s determination to survive loss and hardship to help his family — and how fate and a violin touch the course of his life.
Fans of Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens and Sold On a Monday by Kristina Morris will love this story set during the Great Depression of a fatherless boy fighting to keep his family together.
It is 1933 inside a sweltering courtroom in Macon, Georgia. Fifteen-year-old Robert sits on a bench awaiting sentencing after being picked up for vagrancy and spending a night in jail. He left his home in Illinois with a neighborhood friend to ride the rails and find work to help their families. The friend turned back, too afraid to face the perils ahead. But going back empty-handed isn’t an option for Robert.
THE ONLY WAY HOME is the story of one boy’s determination to survive loss and hardship to help his family — and how fate and a violin touch the course of his life.
Fans of Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens and Sold On a Monday by Kristina Morris will love this story set during the Great Depression of a fatherless boy fighting to keep his family together.
242 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2021
1233 people are currently reading
1938 people want to read
About the author
Jeanette Minniti
1 book29 followersJeanette Minniti is a writer living in Colorado. She received an MA in Journalism with an emphasis in Public Relations from the University of Colorado, Boulder.
She is a member of the Historical Novel Society, Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers, Pikes Peak Writers, and Lighthouse Writers in Denver.
With a background in journalism, her creative writing interest gravitated to historical fiction. Her debut novel, THE ONLY WAY HOME, received the Colorado Authors League 1st Place Gold Award for Historical Fiction, a 2nd Place Silver CIPA EVVY award in Literary & Contemporary Fiction, and a 3rd Place Broze CIPA EVVY Award in Historical Fiction. She also received an Honorable Mention Award from Readers' Favorite in Historical Fiction-Events/Eras.
As an American Association of University Women member, she coordinates the Foreign Policy Association's Great Decisions discussion group. The mission of the AAUW is to advance gender equality for women and girls through research, education, and advocacy.
Jeanette and her husband enjoy all that Colorado renders in outdoor activities, including hiking and biking.
She is a member of the Historical Novel Society, Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers, Pikes Peak Writers, and Lighthouse Writers in Denver.
With a background in journalism, her creative writing interest gravitated to historical fiction. Her debut novel, THE ONLY WAY HOME, received the Colorado Authors League 1st Place Gold Award for Historical Fiction, a 2nd Place Silver CIPA EVVY award in Literary & Contemporary Fiction, and a 3rd Place Broze CIPA EVVY Award in Historical Fiction. She also received an Honorable Mention Award from Readers' Favorite in Historical Fiction-Events/Eras.
As an American Association of University Women member, she coordinates the Foreign Policy Association's Great Decisions discussion group. The mission of the AAUW is to advance gender equality for women and girls through research, education, and advocacy.
Jeanette and her husband enjoy all that Colorado renders in outdoor activities, including hiking and biking.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
December 17, 2022
A death in the family and the Depression force a young man to travel around the country looking for jobs to help support his family back in Illinois. Homesick and tired, he eventually finds a way home. This is a sweet, feel good story.
My thanks to the author, Jeanette Minniti, and the publisher, Penning Press, for my e copy of the book. #Goodreads Giveaway
My thanks to the author, Jeanette Minniti, and the publisher, Penning Press, for my e copy of the book. #Goodreads Giveaway
July 1, 2024
Good idea for a plot but poorly executed. The story was very repetitive, the same experience in every town. Very little development of the characters and rather boring. I was glad when I was done reading it but very disappointed.
November 6, 2021
“It seems as if anything beautiful has been stripped away each year of this horrible depression. It’s left people bereft, going through one month to the next with less and less hope.”
Desperate times. Danger on the rails. A journey to save a family.
The Only Way Home is the story of one boy’s determination to survive loss and hardship to help his family — and how fate and a violin touch the course of his life.
Fans of Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens and Sold On a Monday by Kristina Morris will love this story set during the Great Depression of a fatherless boy fighting to keep his family together.
When we first meet fifteen-year-old Robert, he is awaiting sentencing in a hot and humid courtroom in Macon Georgia after he was picked up for vagrancy. He spends a night in jail and considers the bleak options before him in a country wallowing in the grey dust of the Great Depression. His story is like so many young boys of the era, pushed head-long into adulthood, left fatherless by the Great War or sickness, and determined to help his mother and siblings survive an unspeakable future.
He hits the rails with his friend, Johnny, who at the outset has already succumbed to doubt and fear and has returned home to Illinois. Robert is not about to go back to his mother empty-handed. So even after a ‘slap on the wrist’ from the judge, he is back riding ‘hobo-style’ on the dangerous train lines crossing the United States.
Robert’s determination and bravery are traits to admire, and his character is an easy one to love. So much about his journey, about his ‘fading memories’, of ‘life before everything changed’, resonates from those trying times, but also speaks volumes to any reader in any time period. He is searching for something to cling to, as is most of the other people who cross his path, such as the red-headed Tucker who joins up with him along the way. Each jump onto a railroad car is a jump of faith and hope, praying that the next jerk of the speeding train doesn’t send you flying off onto the rocks below. That’s life, isn’t it?
And along the way, in each situation, he finds helping hands. Good people who extend themselves even in their own time of need. I especially enjoyed the stop he and Tucker make at a strawberry farm to make a little cash to send home to their families. It is here that you learn a great deal about the pain Robert is suffering, and about how music helps him deal with the memories of his father. And all the while, his gift helps someone else cope, which shows the depth of his heart and the reasons behind the desire to get back home to his family even when offered a ‘dream’ life.
Tucker is a great supporting character in the story, and you begin to wonder about all the young boys and girls who crossed paths on the trains during that time period and where they ended up. One of the reasons this story felt so authentic and real to me is that my own grandfather was one of those boys who rode the trains during the 30s – while he didn’t tell me a lot about his journeys, I knew enough to be able to see him and hear his voice through the character of Robert. My grandfather even hopped the train in South Georgia to the Chicago's World Fair to find work, the same as Robert and Tucker do in the story.
Authentic and real, I think that is the best way to describe this book.
And then, Lucille, Robert’s mother, who wakes up everyday in her meager attempt to bring some sort of normality to the rest of Robert’s siblings in a world far from normal. The way the author describes ‘her effort each day wasn’t only about her family getting through difficult times, but championing the exuberance toward life her husband intended them to have as they grew to be adults’ was a brilliant way of showing the sacrifice so many young mothers made during a time when many were on their own and raising six, seven, or sometimes ten children while the fathers died or left home to find work. My own grandmother raised fourteen during that time!
I think one of the things that really stands out to me about this book is the strength of the human spirit to survive. We live in a world of so much excess that I wonder how people today would manage under the same kind of circumstances. More, more, more.... me, me, me... is the mantra of today. This book fixes squarely on the idea of less, less, less, and ‘what can I do to help someone else’. Also, the appreciation of something as simple as finding a straw-filled mattress to sleep on, or the rockers sitting out in front of a general store, or a good meal, or the warmth of a family. This is definitely a book for today, a book which teaches lessons we all need – that of thankfulness and lending a hand, and of family.
“The Only Way Home” by Jeanette Minniti receives five stars from The Historical Fiction Company and a “Highly Recommended” award.
Desperate times. Danger on the rails. A journey to save a family.
The Only Way Home is the story of one boy’s determination to survive loss and hardship to help his family — and how fate and a violin touch the course of his life.
Fans of Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens and Sold On a Monday by Kristina Morris will love this story set during the Great Depression of a fatherless boy fighting to keep his family together.
When we first meet fifteen-year-old Robert, he is awaiting sentencing in a hot and humid courtroom in Macon Georgia after he was picked up for vagrancy. He spends a night in jail and considers the bleak options before him in a country wallowing in the grey dust of the Great Depression. His story is like so many young boys of the era, pushed head-long into adulthood, left fatherless by the Great War or sickness, and determined to help his mother and siblings survive an unspeakable future.
He hits the rails with his friend, Johnny, who at the outset has already succumbed to doubt and fear and has returned home to Illinois. Robert is not about to go back to his mother empty-handed. So even after a ‘slap on the wrist’ from the judge, he is back riding ‘hobo-style’ on the dangerous train lines crossing the United States.
Robert’s determination and bravery are traits to admire, and his character is an easy one to love. So much about his journey, about his ‘fading memories’, of ‘life before everything changed’, resonates from those trying times, but also speaks volumes to any reader in any time period. He is searching for something to cling to, as is most of the other people who cross his path, such as the red-headed Tucker who joins up with him along the way. Each jump onto a railroad car is a jump of faith and hope, praying that the next jerk of the speeding train doesn’t send you flying off onto the rocks below. That’s life, isn’t it?
And along the way, in each situation, he finds helping hands. Good people who extend themselves even in their own time of need. I especially enjoyed the stop he and Tucker make at a strawberry farm to make a little cash to send home to their families. It is here that you learn a great deal about the pain Robert is suffering, and about how music helps him deal with the memories of his father. And all the while, his gift helps someone else cope, which shows the depth of his heart and the reasons behind the desire to get back home to his family even when offered a ‘dream’ life.
Tucker is a great supporting character in the story, and you begin to wonder about all the young boys and girls who crossed paths on the trains during that time period and where they ended up. One of the reasons this story felt so authentic and real to me is that my own grandfather was one of those boys who rode the trains during the 30s – while he didn’t tell me a lot about his journeys, I knew enough to be able to see him and hear his voice through the character of Robert. My grandfather even hopped the train in South Georgia to the Chicago's World Fair to find work, the same as Robert and Tucker do in the story.
Authentic and real, I think that is the best way to describe this book.
And then, Lucille, Robert’s mother, who wakes up everyday in her meager attempt to bring some sort of normality to the rest of Robert’s siblings in a world far from normal. The way the author describes ‘her effort each day wasn’t only about her family getting through difficult times, but championing the exuberance toward life her husband intended them to have as they grew to be adults’ was a brilliant way of showing the sacrifice so many young mothers made during a time when many were on their own and raising six, seven, or sometimes ten children while the fathers died or left home to find work. My own grandmother raised fourteen during that time!
I think one of the things that really stands out to me about this book is the strength of the human spirit to survive. We live in a world of so much excess that I wonder how people today would manage under the same kind of circumstances. More, more, more.... me, me, me... is the mantra of today. This book fixes squarely on the idea of less, less, less, and ‘what can I do to help someone else’. Also, the appreciation of something as simple as finding a straw-filled mattress to sleep on, or the rockers sitting out in front of a general store, or a good meal, or the warmth of a family. This is definitely a book for today, a book which teaches lessons we all need – that of thankfulness and lending a hand, and of family.
“The Only Way Home” by Jeanette Minniti receives five stars from The Historical Fiction Company and a “Highly Recommended” award.
July 12, 2021
This coming-of-age story set during the depression will give readers a new perspective on what life might have been like but through the eyes of a young man.
Robert has left home to try and find work to help support this family. His father has passed and there just isn't enough money coming in due to the depression. Robert isn't really meant for the life of someone that catches freight trains from town to town looking for work, especially since he is only 15 and people are giving jobs to the men with families. Robert has gumption and doesn't give up. He meets a few people along the way and even though he knows he shouldn't befriend anyone, he meets Tucker and they form a kinship and help each other out along the way.
This was such an amazing story of Robert's experiences during the depression. There is so much that he wants to do to help his family, but at 15 it is hard. He does find some kind souls along the way but it isn't enough to keep him from realizing that he needs to be back home with his mother and siblings. The journey he takes could be an adventure if it wasn't such a hard time to be alive looking for work. I have always heard about those that would ride on empty boxcars on freight trains but reading how they have to catch the train and the possibilities for dying bring reality into the picture. This was not an easy life for anyone during the depression.
I admired Robert and his determination and loyalty to those around him. This can be seen with Tucker in many instances. I won't spoil what they are, but Robert shows what true friendship is really about.
We give this book 5 paws up and suggest it if you are in the mood for historical fiction from a young man's point of view.
Robert has left home to try and find work to help support this family. His father has passed and there just isn't enough money coming in due to the depression. Robert isn't really meant for the life of someone that catches freight trains from town to town looking for work, especially since he is only 15 and people are giving jobs to the men with families. Robert has gumption and doesn't give up. He meets a few people along the way and even though he knows he shouldn't befriend anyone, he meets Tucker and they form a kinship and help each other out along the way.
This was such an amazing story of Robert's experiences during the depression. There is so much that he wants to do to help his family, but at 15 it is hard. He does find some kind souls along the way but it isn't enough to keep him from realizing that he needs to be back home with his mother and siblings. The journey he takes could be an adventure if it wasn't such a hard time to be alive looking for work. I have always heard about those that would ride on empty boxcars on freight trains but reading how they have to catch the train and the possibilities for dying bring reality into the picture. This was not an easy life for anyone during the depression.
I admired Robert and his determination and loyalty to those around him. This can be seen with Tucker in many instances. I won't spoil what they are, but Robert shows what true friendship is really about.
We give this book 5 paws up and suggest it if you are in the mood for historical fiction from a young man's point of view.
December 26, 2023
***SPOILERS*****
The style of writing is fine but the story is a repeat of similar books out there, books like Sold On a Monday. So nothing new to report with this book. There were a few parts of the story that were interesting but overall I found much of it predictable. The ending was too tidy, predictable and feel-goody for my own taste. Was relieved to reach the end and move on to finding a better book to spend my time with.
The style of writing is fine but the story is a repeat of similar books out there, books like Sold On a Monday. So nothing new to report with this book. There were a few parts of the story that were interesting but overall I found much of it predictable. The ending was too tidy, predictable and feel-goody for my own taste. Was relieved to reach the end and move on to finding a better book to spend my time with.
December 31, 2021
Good coming-of-age story about a 15-year-old riding the rails during the depression while searching for work.
September 14, 2021
Every now and then I wonder what would a book be like if all the really bad, tragic stuff had happened to someone else. This is that book! Granted, the setting is the Great Depression so I can't claim that the lead character has life easy. He doesn't. It's a crappy life for him, just like it was for everyone else.
The teaser talks about him being in court. True, but the sheriff drives him out of town and gives him $5 to help him on his way home. And every other hardship he goes through seems to have a similar silver lining. Because of this quirk, I felt like the writer played it safe keeping the lead character from having to go through the kind of growth and challenges that could have been realized.
The writing is good, the characters are enjoyable but the conflict is minimal (which I admit sounds really crazy given the setting) and so I feel this is a very " safe" book. I think more challenges would've helped the story, the characters and the believeability of the book.
The teaser talks about him being in court. True, but the sheriff drives him out of town and gives him $5 to help him on his way home. And every other hardship he goes through seems to have a similar silver lining. Because of this quirk, I felt like the writer played it safe keeping the lead character from having to go through the kind of growth and challenges that could have been realized.
The writing is good, the characters are enjoyable but the conflict is minimal (which I admit sounds really crazy given the setting) and so I feel this is a very " safe" book. I think more challenges would've helped the story, the characters and the believeability of the book.
July 22, 2021
THE ONLY WAY HOME by Jeanette Minniti was a great Historical Fiction, Adventure, Coming of Age book. I enjoyed how the author stayed true to the time period while also creating a story that was both interesting and realistic. I enjoyed following Robert on his journey. Overall, it was a great read written by a clearly talented author!
May 25, 2024
This was a nice story of a young boy who loses his father and feels the responsibility to take care of his family and keep them together. It’s the story of friendship and love of family during the depression and the sacrifices made. For me, it didn’t feel like an award winning book, but it was an enjoyable read.
March 25, 2024
Solid 3 ⭐️. I enjoyed the book while I was reading but I wasn’t compelled to pick it up once I put it down. Took me a few days longer to get through for a book this length, simply from lack of motivation to want to read. However, it was a good story.
July 12, 2021
The Only Way Home by Jeanette Minniti
The main character of this book is a boy named Robert. Robert is need of work and he started hopping freight trains going to different states to find it. The book takes place during the Great Depression, where young men had to leave home and support their families. Robert was no exception. When Robert’s father fell ill and died, it became the boy’s responsibility to get out and go find work.
Thus, the adventure begins.
While finishing up his supper one evening, Robert gets arrested by the local sheriff. He has to spend the night in jail and a better part of the next day in a courtroom. The sheriff ends up taking pity for the boy and claimed responsibility for him. After the sheriff fed Robert, he then took Robert to the county line where Georgia meets Alabama and was told to never set foot in Macon, GA again.
Feeling discouraged, Robert heads home. Now home, Illinois, is very far from Alabama. That is when Robert meets Tucker, another young boy looking for work. Robert and Tucker spent the rest of the book together trying to find work, finding work, and simply trying to survive. They encounter some good times and they encounter their fair share of misfortunes. The boys share one common goal; make money and reunite with the family they left behind.
There was an instance when the boys got separated while hopping freight trains. Tucker ended up injury himself and missed the train that Robert was already on. You could feel the conflict of the war Robert was facing within himself. He was happy to be one step closer to home, but Tucker’s same dream became shattered when he missed the train. Once the train stopped, Robert made up in his mind to look for Tucker, and he found him.
I liked Robert’s character. He is strong willed, hardworking, and a genuine friend. I appreciated the growth that was displayed with his character. The author has a way of really capturing the essence of a person’s character and bringing it to life. I laughed, I cried, I got angry, and towards the end I found myself full of joy. You feel his love and concern coming from his mother, Lucille. We got to see a glimpse into her head to see what she thought about all of this.
I will say this, the novel made me appreciate times we are living in now. Back then having a few bucks to your name was hard time to come by, but in today’s time you can easily blow through a couple hundred in a week. That era makes you appreciate the value of a dollar and appreciate how easy it is to find a job now, compared to way back when.
I highly recommend everyone to read this book. If you think you are struggling to make ends meet, this book will make you realize you probably aren’t. This book will remind of the beauty of letting your kids be kids. I will definitely be on the look out for more books by this author.
The main character of this book is a boy named Robert. Robert is need of work and he started hopping freight trains going to different states to find it. The book takes place during the Great Depression, where young men had to leave home and support their families. Robert was no exception. When Robert’s father fell ill and died, it became the boy’s responsibility to get out and go find work.
Thus, the adventure begins.
While finishing up his supper one evening, Robert gets arrested by the local sheriff. He has to spend the night in jail and a better part of the next day in a courtroom. The sheriff ends up taking pity for the boy and claimed responsibility for him. After the sheriff fed Robert, he then took Robert to the county line where Georgia meets Alabama and was told to never set foot in Macon, GA again.
Feeling discouraged, Robert heads home. Now home, Illinois, is very far from Alabama. That is when Robert meets Tucker, another young boy looking for work. Robert and Tucker spent the rest of the book together trying to find work, finding work, and simply trying to survive. They encounter some good times and they encounter their fair share of misfortunes. The boys share one common goal; make money and reunite with the family they left behind.
There was an instance when the boys got separated while hopping freight trains. Tucker ended up injury himself and missed the train that Robert was already on. You could feel the conflict of the war Robert was facing within himself. He was happy to be one step closer to home, but Tucker’s same dream became shattered when he missed the train. Once the train stopped, Robert made up in his mind to look for Tucker, and he found him.
I liked Robert’s character. He is strong willed, hardworking, and a genuine friend. I appreciated the growth that was displayed with his character. The author has a way of really capturing the essence of a person’s character and bringing it to life. I laughed, I cried, I got angry, and towards the end I found myself full of joy. You feel his love and concern coming from his mother, Lucille. We got to see a glimpse into her head to see what she thought about all of this.
I will say this, the novel made me appreciate times we are living in now. Back then having a few bucks to your name was hard time to come by, but in today’s time you can easily blow through a couple hundred in a week. That era makes you appreciate the value of a dollar and appreciate how easy it is to find a job now, compared to way back when.
I highly recommend everyone to read this book. If you think you are struggling to make ends meet, this book will make you realize you probably aren’t. This book will remind of the beauty of letting your kids be kids. I will definitely be on the look out for more books by this author.
September 27, 2021
The Only Way Home could easily have been titled The Long Way Home as it chronicles the journey of I5 year old Robert traveling from his home in Illinois as far as Georgia before slowly making his way back home. The story is set in the Depression when times were as tough as could be, as any reader of this excellent story will discover and experience.
Before his Italian immigrant father died of cancer, Robert and his siblings lived a seemingly comfortable life supported by the father’s house painting business. His death and the near simultaneous arrival of the economic disaster unleashed by the Depression brought that life to an abrupt end. His mother became engaged in a daily struggle to keep the family together and put food on the table.
Robert decides the only way to keep his family together is to hit the road in search of employment, a near impossible task for a 15 year old boy. An older friend from his hometown joins him, but he becomes discouraged over their lack of success and returns home. Later he joins up with another boy, Tucker, whose father asked him to leave home because he could no longer support him.
From this scenario unfolds a long and winding road through danger, disappointment, and seemingly impossible odds of survival, especially since the boys’ means of travel is hopping freight trains. They witness the devastation that this choice can bring and encounter a wide range of people on the trains and in the towns where they jump off.
The unfolding story displays the courage and determination of the two boys, the sacrificial loyalty of Robert to his friend, the kindness as well as the coldness of strangers as the boys move through Alabama, Mississippi, Missouri and slowly north. The cruelty of the railroad police, rightfully called “bulls,” is astonishing as is the willingness of those with a little money to exploit those who have none.
There are bright spots of kindness--a federal employee of Roosevelt’s Public Works program, various staff members of “missions” who house and feed the poor, and warm hearted women who go out of their way to feed the boys. Eventually Robert begins to feel the pull of home and his mother’s worry, and this time, through the kindness of strangers, heads for home. The love of his family and their willingness to sacrifice for each other are definitely bright spots in the novel and clearly explain the behavior of Robert toward others.
This historical novel is a well-researched insight into times it is difficult to imagine. The diversity of characters comes across as humanly real and the evocation of desperation, heat, hardship and loss are memorable. This is a book that is well worth reading.
Before his Italian immigrant father died of cancer, Robert and his siblings lived a seemingly comfortable life supported by the father’s house painting business. His death and the near simultaneous arrival of the economic disaster unleashed by the Depression brought that life to an abrupt end. His mother became engaged in a daily struggle to keep the family together and put food on the table.
Robert decides the only way to keep his family together is to hit the road in search of employment, a near impossible task for a 15 year old boy. An older friend from his hometown joins him, but he becomes discouraged over their lack of success and returns home. Later he joins up with another boy, Tucker, whose father asked him to leave home because he could no longer support him.
From this scenario unfolds a long and winding road through danger, disappointment, and seemingly impossible odds of survival, especially since the boys’ means of travel is hopping freight trains. They witness the devastation that this choice can bring and encounter a wide range of people on the trains and in the towns where they jump off.
The unfolding story displays the courage and determination of the two boys, the sacrificial loyalty of Robert to his friend, the kindness as well as the coldness of strangers as the boys move through Alabama, Mississippi, Missouri and slowly north. The cruelty of the railroad police, rightfully called “bulls,” is astonishing as is the willingness of those with a little money to exploit those who have none.
There are bright spots of kindness--a federal employee of Roosevelt’s Public Works program, various staff members of “missions” who house and feed the poor, and warm hearted women who go out of their way to feed the boys. Eventually Robert begins to feel the pull of home and his mother’s worry, and this time, through the kindness of strangers, heads for home. The love of his family and their willingness to sacrifice for each other are definitely bright spots in the novel and clearly explain the behavior of Robert toward others.
This historical novel is a well-researched insight into times it is difficult to imagine. The diversity of characters comes across as humanly real and the evocation of desperation, heat, hardship and loss are memorable. This is a book that is well worth reading.
December 19, 2021
The Only Way Home is a very good novel centering on a time of history during the Great Depression. It was a very sad and difficult time for most families. It is depressing how many children were given to institutions and asked by parents to leave home because there wasn't enough food or lodging.
In this novel, I learned new things, such as the large amount of youth who lost their lives hopping on trains. It also reiterates things I did know about the violence and lack of comradely for fear of having to assist anyone other than self.
This book, also, centers on parents' worry and devastation about having a son/daughter take it upon themselves to leave for adventure or in hope of finding work to aid their families. Additionally, information is given concerning the efforts the government begin making to assist windows and youth.
Although it is fiction, much factual information is given. It is entwined in the dangerous, daunting experiences of three young men who took it upon themselves to aid their families, to little avail. The story is never void of adventure and disheartening situations.
This is of special interest to me, because my father was one of those youth hopping trains, starving, experiencing other deprivations and grabbing any type of, often ruthless, work he could find. I always was enthralled listening to his unpleasant experiences. He did do many things he never would have done if he were not desperate. He saw many things which haunted him throughout his life.
The characters were very well-developed and felt totally real. The various situations were described in a way that is easily visualized. The flow smoothly flowed between chapters while often reverting from youth to families left behind.
I highly recommend this book to youth as well as adults.
* This book was gifted me with no pressure for a positive review. This is my honest review.
In this novel, I learned new things, such as the large amount of youth who lost their lives hopping on trains. It also reiterates things I did know about the violence and lack of comradely for fear of having to assist anyone other than self.
This book, also, centers on parents' worry and devastation about having a son/daughter take it upon themselves to leave for adventure or in hope of finding work to aid their families. Additionally, information is given concerning the efforts the government begin making to assist windows and youth.
Although it is fiction, much factual information is given. It is entwined in the dangerous, daunting experiences of three young men who took it upon themselves to aid their families, to little avail. The story is never void of adventure and disheartening situations.
This is of special interest to me, because my father was one of those youth hopping trains, starving, experiencing other deprivations and grabbing any type of, often ruthless, work he could find. I always was enthralled listening to his unpleasant experiences. He did do many things he never would have done if he were not desperate. He saw many things which haunted him throughout his life.
The characters were very well-developed and felt totally real. The various situations were described in a way that is easily visualized. The flow smoothly flowed between chapters while often reverting from youth to families left behind.
I highly recommend this book to youth as well as adults.
* This book was gifted me with no pressure for a positive review. This is my honest review.
August 20, 2021
MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
Afraid his family needed money to survive during the great depression, 15 years old Robert strikes out on his own to work and make money for his family. His journey was not a very good one, though he did find some nice people along the way to help him. He ended up going through several states, and also found a friend to join him on his journey. Robert is trying to find his way back home to his family, and the only way of transportation is hopping trains, so this is what he and his friend did.
Author Jeanette Minniti does a lot of research to get the historical facts right, as well as creating characters that very well tell her story. I love Robert, he is such a sweet strong and caring young man. There were many troubling times that I was scared someone would grab him and take him for purposes that were not good. A few times I even feared for his live, but it was so reassuring to see the nice people he met along the way that will willing to overlook a few things or help him on his way. The Only Way Home by Jeanette Minniti is a fantastic historical fiction that you history buffs out there will love. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a few hours of entertainment and enjoyment. Five Stars for this one!
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Afraid his family needed money to survive during the great depression, 15 years old Robert strikes out on his own to work and make money for his family. His journey was not a very good one, though he did find some nice people along the way to help him. He ended up going through several states, and also found a friend to join him on his journey. Robert is trying to find his way back home to his family, and the only way of transportation is hopping trains, so this is what he and his friend did.
Author Jeanette Minniti does a lot of research to get the historical facts right, as well as creating characters that very well tell her story. I love Robert, he is such a sweet strong and caring young man. There were many troubling times that I was scared someone would grab him and take him for purposes that were not good. A few times I even feared for his live, but it was so reassuring to see the nice people he met along the way that will willing to overlook a few things or help him on his way. The Only Way Home by Jeanette Minniti is a fantastic historical fiction that you history buffs out there will love. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a few hours of entertainment and enjoyment. Five Stars for this one!
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
September 10, 2021
Couldn't put it down!
I guess I never realized how bad the Great Depression was. I was born in 1945, my mom and dad in 1922 & 1920, respectively. They were very fortunate, mom born in S TX, and raised by her aunt & uncle who had a job working on a
Dragline, building canals, highways, etc. And other fortunate fact was that I aunt's brother worked in New Jersey and was able to get them information about the banks closing and they were able to get the money that they had in the bank out before it closed. She did learn to live frugally, which she taught me. Daddy was also fortunate to live in Wisconsin where his dad worked for his brother in law who owned a lumber company. When in the late 20's they heard about the land sales in the Lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas for citrus orchards, they bought several plate. Uncle Bill wanted my grandad to manage them, so in 1935, in February, they drove to Texas pulling a trailer he had made for their possessions, including grandmother's grand piano! To Texas!! And the rest is a beautiful history! I am so happy they all didn't have to go through what the families like Robert's and Tucker's did. Shows what our great country can become again as it did then! Read till 2am, then up at 7:30 to finish! Thank you for writing this book!
I guess I never realized how bad the Great Depression was. I was born in 1945, my mom and dad in 1922 & 1920, respectively. They were very fortunate, mom born in S TX, and raised by her aunt & uncle who had a job working on a
Dragline, building canals, highways, etc. And other fortunate fact was that I aunt's brother worked in New Jersey and was able to get them information about the banks closing and they were able to get the money that they had in the bank out before it closed. She did learn to live frugally, which she taught me. Daddy was also fortunate to live in Wisconsin where his dad worked for his brother in law who owned a lumber company. When in the late 20's they heard about the land sales in the Lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas for citrus orchards, they bought several plate. Uncle Bill wanted my grandad to manage them, so in 1935, in February, they drove to Texas pulling a trailer he had made for their possessions, including grandmother's grand piano! To Texas!! And the rest is a beautiful history! I am so happy they all didn't have to go through what the families like Robert's and Tucker's did. Shows what our great country can become again as it did then! Read till 2am, then up at 7:30 to finish! Thank you for writing this book!
July 4, 2021
The Only Way Home opens with such strong, vivid imagery that ‘reading one chapter before bed’ quickly went out the window. I felt the Georgia heat, sensed fifteen-year-old Robert’s disposition and the uncertainty pulsing through him. I connected with him so easily, and that says something about the author. It’s great storytelling that causes you to effortlessly sink into a story and put yourself in a character’s place.
Though I rarely read coming of age stories or those with young male leads, I thoroughly enjoyed this unique and stirring book. Robert is an interesting man and the historical details in the story take you back to harder days. I’m glad I took this journey and will seek out Jeanette Minniti’s future work.
Dɪsᴄʟᴏsᴜʀᴇ: I ʀᴇᴄᴇɪᴠᴇᴅ ᴀ ᴄᴏᴍᴘʟɪᴍᴇɴᴛᴀʀʏ ᴄᴏᴘʏ ᴏғ ᴛʜɪs ʙᴏᴏᴋ. Mʏ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ ᴡᴀs ɴᴏᴛ ɪɴғʟᴜᴇɴᴄᴇᴅ.
Though I rarely read coming of age stories or those with young male leads, I thoroughly enjoyed this unique and stirring book. Robert is an interesting man and the historical details in the story take you back to harder days. I’m glad I took this journey and will seek out Jeanette Minniti’s future work.
Dɪsᴄʟᴏsᴜʀᴇ: I ʀᴇᴄᴇɪᴠᴇᴅ ᴀ ᴄᴏᴍᴘʟɪᴍᴇɴᴛᴀʀʏ ᴄᴏᴘʏ ᴏғ ᴛʜɪs ʙᴏᴏᴋ. Mʏ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ ᴡᴀs ɴᴏᴛ ɪɴғʟᴜᴇɴᴄᴇᴅ.
October 9, 2021
Interesting and historical look back at depression era life.
While things have been quite shaky with the economy of late in America, we haven't reached the point of sending children away to hop trains, hitchhike, or God knows what to help bring needed resources into our homes. This book touches on the realities of such a time. It's indeed an eye-opener, and for those who had parents who lived through this, a much-needed appreciation for the lives some of them conquered.
Anyone under 40 really should read this, knowing that history can, and sadly, may repeat itself.
Another edge to this heartwarming story is the tale of friendships formed under the harshest of circumstances. Robert and Tucker truly had each other's backs. Bottom line, too: we do what we have to to survive and to help our loved ones. Great thought provoking book!
While things have been quite shaky with the economy of late in America, we haven't reached the point of sending children away to hop trains, hitchhike, or God knows what to help bring needed resources into our homes. This book touches on the realities of such a time. It's indeed an eye-opener, and for those who had parents who lived through this, a much-needed appreciation for the lives some of them conquered.
Anyone under 40 really should read this, knowing that history can, and sadly, may repeat itself.
Another edge to this heartwarming story is the tale of friendships formed under the harshest of circumstances. Robert and Tucker truly had each other's backs. Bottom line, too: we do what we have to to survive and to help our loved ones. Great thought provoking book!
August 22, 2024
Read this and count your blessings!
My Dad went through the great depression with a widowed mother and 5 siblings. He never talked about it much. He got a third grade education, and thanks to his strong back and Wellness to learn he was a master carpenter by taking any job he could find. I remember him yelling me "Cheryl, just remembered. You ate as good as any one, and no better than any one else." I've lived by those words all my life. I've lived by those words. He passed in 1987. Way too soon. I'm 72. Thank you MS Mintti for reminding me. Life hasn't been as hard as it could have been. Great Book!
My Dad went through the great depression with a widowed mother and 5 siblings. He never talked about it much. He got a third grade education, and thanks to his strong back and Wellness to learn he was a master carpenter by taking any job he could find. I remember him yelling me "Cheryl, just remembered. You ate as good as any one, and no better than any one else." I've lived by those words all my life. I've lived by those words. He passed in 1987. Way too soon. I'm 72. Thank you MS Mintti for reminding me. Life hasn't been as hard as it could have been. Great Book!
July 30, 2025
A time when life was hard for young families.
I enjoyed the story very much. Young men and women had to grow fast and learn to be responsible. The world was hard, but many young people rose to the occasion. Loved his story. Having to jump on moving trains that was very dangerous. Finding a good friend like Tucker. Going back to find Tucker and helping him find a place to work. The most touching n part was when he came home and was playing n his violin and his mother heard the violin and knew Robert was home. A strong mother to keep her family together and make sacrifices to keep them together. Really enjoyed this book.
I enjoyed the story very much. Young men and women had to grow fast and learn to be responsible. The world was hard, but many young people rose to the occasion. Loved his story. Having to jump on moving trains that was very dangerous. Finding a good friend like Tucker. Going back to find Tucker and helping him find a place to work. The most touching n part was when he came home and was playing n his violin and his mother heard the violin and knew Robert was home. A strong mother to keep her family together and make sacrifices to keep them together. Really enjoyed this book.
April 13, 2021
This novel felt like traveling back in time to the Depression Era when families had to split apart in order to survive. I was immediately drawn to the teenaged boy, Robert, and his determination to move ahead despite his loneliness and the often-unsavory characters he met on the trains and in the small Southern towns. The author pulls Robert’s story together in a satisfactory and realistic way. If you are a history buff or just interested in this particular time period, you will not be disappointed in this debut novel by a promising new author.
July 4, 2022
This is a compelling story of a young man during the Great Depression leaving home to try to help his family. Many historical novels are written with the hypersensitive and critical voice of our time. The characters in this novel, good and bad, speak to us with the stoicism of people trying to stay alive. We see them competing for food and helping others when they have very little to give. They sound like my grandparents and parents who lived through that difficult time.
I think it is one of the most honest historical novels I have ever read.
I think it is one of the most honest historical novels I have ever read.
March 11, 2023
Riding the Rails,During the Depression
Great novel about young & old riding the rails during the Great Depression.
Everyone was looking for work,anywhere they could find it.
The easiest, but one of the harsher ways,was jumping on & off the boxcars.
Many were injured,maimed or killed.
This novel centers around two young boys 15 & 17.
One being told to leave home,because they needed his bed & the other feeling,he needed to help his family,after the death of his father.
The story is a good one with great,likeable characters.
A fast read,that you will enjoy.,,
Great novel about young & old riding the rails during the Great Depression.
Everyone was looking for work,anywhere they could find it.
The easiest, but one of the harsher ways,was jumping on & off the boxcars.
Many were injured,maimed or killed.
This novel centers around two young boys 15 & 17.
One being told to leave home,because they needed his bed & the other feeling,he needed to help his family,after the death of his father.
The story is a good one with great,likeable characters.
A fast read,that you will enjoy.,,
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 19, 2021
This story will make you cry and laugh. This was so sad for me to read about. I did not know that so many teenagers rode the rails during the depression. This book tells about Robert and his journey to try to find a job to help his mom. I enjoyed learning about what some of the people that rode the rails did to find jobs. Most of what happens is very sad. I received a copy of this book from the ireadbooktour for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
September 26, 2021
Reminiscent of early farm days & family stories in IL
I recall Mom making sandwiches for a “ hobo,” across the country road,in the late 40s before I was school-age; and hearing many family stories, from both parents’ families about the hardships of the depression. This novel gave more life to those stories, as I could see them from a young person’s experiences. Supported the theme of family loyalty, hope, & perseverance. Discovered the CCC was also for those as young as 18.
I recall Mom making sandwiches for a “ hobo,” across the country road,in the late 40s before I was school-age; and hearing many family stories, from both parents’ families about the hardships of the depression. This novel gave more life to those stories, as I could see them from a young person’s experiences. Supported the theme of family loyalty, hope, & perseverance. Discovered the CCC was also for those as young as 18.
February 18, 2024
His family has been hit hard during the Depression, so 15-year-old Robert takes off to ride the rails across the south, determined to find work to send money home. I learned a lot about life during those challenging times, the many hardships and few rewards. I found the story interesting, but the writing was lacking in depth. I thought it might have been a Young Adult book, or maybe self-published without a good editor.
May 31, 2024
Coming of age in '33
This book speaks to the heart of hardworking Americans caught up in the fallout of the Great Depression. As 15 year old Robert hits the rails to seek employment to assist his widowed mother and younger siblings, the boy overcomes hardships and learns about loyalty and compassion. Often faced with violence and tragedy, the human spirit pushes him forward when others might give up or give in. This would be an excellent read for young adolescents.
This book speaks to the heart of hardworking Americans caught up in the fallout of the Great Depression. As 15 year old Robert hits the rails to seek employment to assist his widowed mother and younger siblings, the boy overcomes hardships and learns about loyalty and compassion. Often faced with violence and tragedy, the human spirit pushes him forward when others might give up or give in. This would be an excellent read for young adolescents.
January 27, 2025
Great Read!
Loved this book. It was good to read about the people who helped the boys in the travels to find work.. The good and the bad people they met. I will remember the family with the small children and the two young girls at the mercy of the very bad men.
I now understand why my dad always was generous to those in need. He and my mother experienced some of it when they were young.
Loved this book. It was good to read about the people who helped the boys in the travels to find work.. The good and the bad people they met. I will remember the family with the small children and the two young girls at the mercy of the very bad men.
I now understand why my dad always was generous to those in need. He and my mother experienced some of it when they were young.
April 29, 2025
Realistic story about depression era
Well researched. I enjoy " clean" stories. Thare were no surprises here. I apppreciate her telling of horrific events without giving trying to paint a grisly picture. Readers can imagine it according to their own experience and level of maturity. I am 75 and familiar with the realities of living in the 1930's from stories my parents used to tell. I would say middle school age on up would enjoy this book
Well researched. I enjoy " clean" stories. Thare were no surprises here. I apppreciate her telling of horrific events without giving trying to paint a grisly picture. Readers can imagine it according to their own experience and level of maturity. I am 75 and familiar with the realities of living in the 1930's from stories my parents used to tell. I would say middle school age on up would enjoy this book
September 15, 2021
A truly good read.
It thoroughly enjoyed this story about a young man doing what he thought was right to help his family during the Great Depression. And the historical details, such as the markings left by the “travellers” to indicate safe camps and sleeping spots were quite interesting.
It thoroughly enjoyed this story about a young man doing what he thought was right to help his family during the Great Depression. And the historical details, such as the markings left by the “travellers” to indicate safe camps and sleeping spots were quite interesting.
September 29, 2021
Intriguing
Well written about a boy who left his mother and siblings in Chicago so he could find work and send money back home. Jobs were really scarce as this was during the great depression, and he travels all over the Midwest by hitching rides on freight trains. Very interesting adventures and a great read
Well written about a boy who left his mother and siblings in Chicago so he could find work and send money back home. Jobs were really scarce as this was during the great depression, and he travels all over the Midwest by hitching rides on freight trains. Very interesting adventures and a great read
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