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Greetings from Tucson: A collection of letters between sisters
In June of 1945, tragedy struck and sisters Cookie, Frankie, Dottie, and Connie were torn from everything they knew—their parents, their home, and, most importantly, each other. Forced to live thousands of miles apart, they feared their bond would be broken. The four sisters began writing letters to share every detail of their young lives, celebrating milestones and mourning heartbreaks from afar. Through these letters, they strengthened their relationship when the odds were so stacked against them. That is, until one sister's secret from the past changed everything. Would she break the fragile bond they worked so hard to nurture after their split so many years ago? From the author (Cherie L. Genua): Greetings from Tucson is inspired by my grandmother's early life after both her parents' tragic deaths in the 1940s. Soon after my grandmother passed away in 2012, I discovered a shoebox filled with pastel-colored envelopes stuffed with handwritten notes. There were countless letters stacked up inside that were sent to my grandmother from her sisters—she kept them for decades tucked away in her closet. I will never forget their smell—rosewater mixed with the stale smell of vintage paper. These letters from the 1940s and beyond pieced together the stunning—and tragic—story of her early life and taught me that a sisters' bond could never be broken, no matter how hard life became. A story that taught me sisters could be soulmates, too.
Sisters separated by tragedy, strengthened by letters.
Sisters separated by tragedy, strengthened by letters.
338 pages, Paperback
Published September 14, 2021
38 people are currently reading
2525 people want to read
About the author
Cherie L. Genua
1 book77 followersFind me on Instagram: @cheriegenua
Cherie L. Genua’s first love is—and always will be—writing. Writing is the outlet that illuminated the most wonderful times of her life, while also helping her find the sunshine on some otherwise dark days. After facing a life-changing breast cancer diagnosis at the age of 34, Cherie co-authored the non-fiction book “Wisdom From Five Cancer Travelers: Lessons Learned” with others affected by the disease. She was declared “no evidence of disease” in 2019 and made it a mission to write and publish her first fiction novel, “Greetings from Tucson,” inspired by her grandmother’s story. Cherie lives in Connecticut with her husband, Matt, and their Portuguese Water Dog, Poppy. She holds a B.A. in English from Southern Connecticut State University and an M.B.A. from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
Cherie L. Genua’s first love is—and always will be—writing. Writing is the outlet that illuminated the most wonderful times of her life, while also helping her find the sunshine on some otherwise dark days. After facing a life-changing breast cancer diagnosis at the age of 34, Cherie co-authored the non-fiction book “Wisdom From Five Cancer Travelers: Lessons Learned” with others affected by the disease. She was declared “no evidence of disease” in 2019 and made it a mission to write and publish her first fiction novel, “Greetings from Tucson,” inspired by her grandmother’s story. Cherie lives in Connecticut with her husband, Matt, and their Portuguese Water Dog, Poppy. She holds a B.A. in English from Southern Connecticut State University and an M.B.A. from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
March 6, 2022
I really enjoyed the format of this book. While, the timeline progresses fairly quickly, I felt satisfied. Sisters, Frankie, Dottie, Connie, and Cookie were lovely. Each of their personalities and voices did come through and shine.
While it is fair to say that I did not really have a favorite among the four sisters as I equally loved them all; I did feel a bit closer towards Cookie. Only because it did feel like she was the overarching narrating voice in this book.
The emotional connection with the sisters was strong. So much that I had a bit of an emotional reaction at a certain point in the story. I would recommend this book to readers and do plan to check out more books from this author.
While it is fair to say that I did not really have a favorite among the four sisters as I equally loved them all; I did feel a bit closer towards Cookie. Only because it did feel like she was the overarching narrating voice in this book.
The emotional connection with the sisters was strong. So much that I had a bit of an emotional reaction at a certain point in the story. I would recommend this book to readers and do plan to check out more books from this author.
November 12, 2022
Greetings from Tucson is a beautiful story about four sisters who are torn from everything they know — their parents, their home and each other — after tragedy strikes. Forced to live thousands of miles apart, the sisters keep in touch the only way they can: By writing letters, in which they share details of their lives, from the intimate nitty gritty to celebratory milestones.
I fell in love with the characters in this book! Getting to follow them through their ups and downs, from childhood to adolescence to adulthood, made me feel like I was right there with them. Told through a mix of letters, diary entries and a first-person narrative, this was a moving and heartfelt read that I enjoyed from start to end. That last chapter was 🥺
This book is inspired by the early life of the author's grandmother. Soon after her grandmother's passing, Cherie discovered a shoebox full of envelopes stuffed with handwritten notes. These are not just cherished letters that Cherie's grandmother had received from her sisters, but are also proof of the siblings' unbreakable bond despite the challenges in their lives.
Cherie, it was a privilege to have gotten to know your family through these wonderful pages!
Thank you to the author and Travelling Pages Tour for a digital copy of this book.
I fell in love with the characters in this book! Getting to follow them through their ups and downs, from childhood to adolescence to adulthood, made me feel like I was right there with them. Told through a mix of letters, diary entries and a first-person narrative, this was a moving and heartfelt read that I enjoyed from start to end. That last chapter was 🥺
This book is inspired by the early life of the author's grandmother. Soon after her grandmother's passing, Cherie discovered a shoebox full of envelopes stuffed with handwritten notes. These are not just cherished letters that Cherie's grandmother had received from her sisters, but are also proof of the siblings' unbreakable bond despite the challenges in their lives.
Cherie, it was a privilege to have gotten to know your family through these wonderful pages!
Thank you to the author and Travelling Pages Tour for a digital copy of this book.
May 9, 2022
Full review on my blog on Tuesday!
March 10, 2025
this book made me feel all the feels. i would get sucked in everytime id pick it up. it made me feel like i traveled to a different decade with how well the story telling was. i do wish it would’ve been longer, but overall an amazing read!
August 11, 2023
Heartwarming, poignant and moving. 5/5.
June 20, 2025
Cute! But also so very bittersweet 🥺 life truly is so strange yet amazing. One horrific and tragic event can tear your world apart and change the trajectory of your life. Sometimes good and sometimes not so good. But the bond and unconditional love these four sisters had for each other is inspiring. The letters they wrote helped strengthen their bond not only through blood by also by words. It’s beautiful. It also makes me want to start writing to my sisters, which conveniently would also start by the opening line “Greetings from Tucson” 😁🌵☀️
March 12, 2022
Title: Greetings From Tucson
Author: Cherie L. Genua
Release Date: December 11th, 2021
Page Count: 330
Start Date: March 7th, 2022
Finish Date: March 12th, 2022
Review:
Story: This story was just so beautiful and emotionally raw. It hit me in my feels. I cried. I’m not a person that cries really easy. So I hope this tells you something! The fact that it’s based on a real person and her sisters just makes it all that much more better. I’m so blessed that I was given a chance to read this book. It’s really touched me in ways I can’t explain. It will stick with me for a long time.
Characters: We follow four sisters through their life after a tragic event. Two in Connecticut (Cookie and Frankie) and two in Arizona (Connie and Dottie). In a way, I connected with all four of them. More Dottie than any of them. that doesn’t take place until later in the story though.
Critiques: Nothing. I mean I could be cheeky and say that this should come with a warning that tissues are needed. I’m still kind of teary eyed!
Narration: N/A
Final Thoughts: I really do think that this book will stick with me for a long time. I’m so tempted to go do research on the person that this book was based on. I’d love to see this turned into a movie. I was getting so many Little Women and Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants vibes from this. I fully recommend it. As long as you are prepared to be hit in the feels by such an amazingly beautiful story. I’d give it a thousand stars if I could.
Author: Cherie L. Genua
Release Date: December 11th, 2021
Page Count: 330
Start Date: March 7th, 2022
Finish Date: March 12th, 2022
Review:
Story: This story was just so beautiful and emotionally raw. It hit me in my feels. I cried. I’m not a person that cries really easy. So I hope this tells you something! The fact that it’s based on a real person and her sisters just makes it all that much more better. I’m so blessed that I was given a chance to read this book. It’s really touched me in ways I can’t explain. It will stick with me for a long time.
Characters: We follow four sisters through their life after a tragic event. Two in Connecticut (Cookie and Frankie) and two in Arizona (Connie and Dottie). In a way, I connected with all four of them. More Dottie than any of them. that doesn’t take place until later in the story though.
Critiques: Nothing. I mean I could be cheeky and say that this should come with a warning that tissues are needed. I’m still kind of teary eyed!
Narration: N/A
Final Thoughts: I really do think that this book will stick with me for a long time. I’m so tempted to go do research on the person that this book was based on. I’d love to see this turned into a movie. I was getting so many Little Women and Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants vibes from this. I fully recommend it. As long as you are prepared to be hit in the feels by such an amazingly beautiful story. I’d give it a thousand stars if I could.
May 24, 2025
I loved this book. It finished it in one sitting and I am not ashamed to say that I cried.
Greetings from Tuscan follows 4 young girls who are separated after their parents tragically pass away. They keep in town with each other by letters as social media wasn’t a thing at the time. They grow up right before your eyes as you read their letters to one another detailing their lives and catching each other up.
I am very close with my 3 sisters. They are my favorite people in to be around so this book struck a little home for me. I am fortunate to not have gone through what these 4 sisters have gone through but their bond is so strong and one I have with my own sisters.
The story was so beautifully written and I hung onto every word. The story dealt with very real issues including sobriety, domestic violence, etc. in a beautiful way. I cried by the end of the book and all I wanted to do was text my sisters and tell them that I loved them. It is a great book by an amazingly talented author.
Greetings from Tuscan follows 4 young girls who are separated after their parents tragically pass away. They keep in town with each other by letters as social media wasn’t a thing at the time. They grow up right before your eyes as you read their letters to one another detailing their lives and catching each other up.
I am very close with my 3 sisters. They are my favorite people in to be around so this book struck a little home for me. I am fortunate to not have gone through what these 4 sisters have gone through but their bond is so strong and one I have with my own sisters.
The story was so beautifully written and I hung onto every word. The story dealt with very real issues including sobriety, domestic violence, etc. in a beautiful way. I cried by the end of the book and all I wanted to do was text my sisters and tell them that I loved them. It is a great book by an amazingly talented author.
September 28, 2024
Read this as it was recommended from Amazon.
LOVE this book Can not recommend it. Enough.
Going to prob give it 5 Stars, but I need to finish it- to see how it ends.
Starts out as a Final Goodbye to her Grandma, turns into letters from sisters- through the years.
I can not wait for my sisters to read it. Read it with your sisters/ friends/ book club.
*** Inspired by a true story- what was taken out or added. So many questions... right now.
LOVE this book Can not recommend it. Enough.
Going to prob give it 5 Stars, but I need to finish it- to see how it ends.
Starts out as a Final Goodbye to her Grandma, turns into letters from sisters- through the years.
I can not wait for my sisters to read it. Read it with your sisters/ friends/ book club.
*** Inspired by a true story- what was taken out or added. So many questions... right now.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 14, 2024
I liked this one
Tune pectfly heart warming ..series of letters between two sisters over the course of20 years
Decent story I was tooting for the main characters yo get it together!
Tune pectfly heart warming ..series of letters between two sisters over the course of20 years
Decent story I was tooting for the main characters yo get it together!
October 6, 2024
This isn’t what I thought it would be. It’s just a series of letters between sisters sadly separated by circumstance. I found it tedious and uninteresting at times. Each one’s life takes many turns and it was resonant of the times they lived in. I found myself speed reading through the last third.
November 24, 2022
“These letters will tell the story of my life”
Following the loss of both parents only hours apart, Cookie, Frankie, Dottie and Connie become orphans. Following adoption, the four sisters are split down the middle. Two stay near their come in Connecticut, and the other two leave with their new family across the country to restart in Arizona. As the sisters grow, the distance becomes undeniable. Letters written back and forth tie the separated siblings together through growing pains, love, grief and unwavering support. Based on a true story, this book really showcases the strength of these four woman as they stay in each other’s lives, despite all odds.
This book was truly such a beautiful read. With the odds stacked against them, four sisters show the true strength and love that their family has. It was heartwarming, heartbreaking, funny, emotional and raw. It is written in a perfect division of letters and narrative which help add to the story. The way in which each character is written makes you want to fall in love with all of them!
Following the loss of both parents only hours apart, Cookie, Frankie, Dottie and Connie become orphans. Following adoption, the four sisters are split down the middle. Two stay near their come in Connecticut, and the other two leave with their new family across the country to restart in Arizona. As the sisters grow, the distance becomes undeniable. Letters written back and forth tie the separated siblings together through growing pains, love, grief and unwavering support. Based on a true story, this book really showcases the strength of these four woman as they stay in each other’s lives, despite all odds.
This book was truly such a beautiful read. With the odds stacked against them, four sisters show the true strength and love that their family has. It was heartwarming, heartbreaking, funny, emotional and raw. It is written in a perfect division of letters and narrative which help add to the story. The way in which each character is written makes you want to fall in love with all of them!
June 7, 2025
4.5⭐️ I really liked this book! When I was reading, I would get sucked into the lives of the sisters— the feels, the ups and downs, and just overall life. Whenever I wasn’t reading it, I was thinking about it and couldn’t wait until I could pick it up again. It kind of gave off Little Women vibes or even Sisterhood of the Traveling pants vibes, and I was all for it.
As someone who has two younger sisters (all of us in different states), this book just hit me a little deeper than I was expecting. Makes me want to start writing letters to my sisters so they’ll always have a piece of me.
I thought this was a beautiful story that captured the love between sisters no matter the distance. The love that lasts through the good times and the bad. Through life and death, growing families and following dreams, violent relationships, sobriety, and so much more.
10 out of 10, would recommend!
As someone who has two younger sisters (all of us in different states), this book just hit me a little deeper than I was expecting. Makes me want to start writing letters to my sisters so they’ll always have a piece of me.
I thought this was a beautiful story that captured the love between sisters no matter the distance. The love that lasts through the good times and the bad. Through life and death, growing families and following dreams, violent relationships, sobriety, and so much more.
10 out of 10, would recommend!
January 26, 2022
Cherie's grandma would be proud of this book!
November 14, 2022
“But I know in my heart that I’ll always need my sisters, no matter how often I see them or feel their hands in my hand."
"Life is a series of moments and little decisions that bring us to where we are at this very moment."
Blurb: Inspired by a true story- In June of 1945, tragedy struck and sisters Cookie, Frankie, Dottie, and Connie were torn from everything they knew—their parents, their home, and, most importantly, each other. Forced to live thousands of miles apart, they feared their bond would be broken. The four sisters began writing letters to share every detail of their young lives, celebrating milestones and mourning heartbreaks from afar. Through these letters, they strengthened their relationship when the odds were so stacked against them. That is, until one sister's secret from the past changed everything. Would she break the fragile bond they worked so hard to nurture after their split so many years ago?
My thoughts: This book was heartbreaking and sweet and heartbreaking again... but I loved every minute of it. The characters were all wonderful and had nothing lacking. The writing style was easy to follow and sucks you in to a story you don't want to put down. The book is supposed to take place in the 40's but I felt like some verbage and personalities as well as situations the sisters go through were more our day so i had a hard time putting my head in the 40's setting and atmosphere. But overall I really enjoyed this one and I think you should read it! It's on KINDLE UNLIMITED!! Thanks @katieandbreypa for letting me be on this team!
I give Greetings from Tucson: A collection of letters between sisters by Cherie L. Genua ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"Life is a series of moments and little decisions that bring us to where we are at this very moment."
Blurb: Inspired by a true story- In June of 1945, tragedy struck and sisters Cookie, Frankie, Dottie, and Connie were torn from everything they knew—their parents, their home, and, most importantly, each other. Forced to live thousands of miles apart, they feared their bond would be broken. The four sisters began writing letters to share every detail of their young lives, celebrating milestones and mourning heartbreaks from afar. Through these letters, they strengthened their relationship when the odds were so stacked against them. That is, until one sister's secret from the past changed everything. Would she break the fragile bond they worked so hard to nurture after their split so many years ago?
My thoughts: This book was heartbreaking and sweet and heartbreaking again... but I loved every minute of it. The characters were all wonderful and had nothing lacking. The writing style was easy to follow and sucks you in to a story you don't want to put down. The book is supposed to take place in the 40's but I felt like some verbage and personalities as well as situations the sisters go through were more our day so i had a hard time putting my head in the 40's setting and atmosphere. But overall I really enjoyed this one and I think you should read it! It's on KINDLE UNLIMITED!! Thanks @katieandbreypa for letting me be on this team!
I give Greetings from Tucson: A collection of letters between sisters by Cherie L. Genua ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 11, 2022
Read if you like:
👒Love overcoming tragedy
👒Bonds among sisters
👒Family ties
👒Love letters
I thought this book was stunningly beautiful from beginning to end. It starts with a beautiful eulogy for Loretta, a grandmother who was her family’s “guiding light in a dark & unknown world”, & then jumps back in time to the 1940s. It’s in this timeline that you meet 4 sisters who just witnessed an unspeakable tragedy. They learn to foster a bond that lasts throughout life’s ups & downs.
This book is unique because the bulk of it is told through the sisters’ letters to each other. Having two sisters of my own, I really felt the bond, camrarderi, jealousy, & love.
This is the author’s first work of fiction inspired by her grandmother’s story.
I would recommend this book a thousand times over & only hope my review did it justice. I know this story will stay with me for a long time.
Thank you, @katieandbreypa @cheriegenua for inviting me to be a part of this book tour. I’ve loved every minute!
👒Love overcoming tragedy
👒Bonds among sisters
👒Family ties
👒Love letters
I thought this book was stunningly beautiful from beginning to end. It starts with a beautiful eulogy for Loretta, a grandmother who was her family’s “guiding light in a dark & unknown world”, & then jumps back in time to the 1940s. It’s in this timeline that you meet 4 sisters who just witnessed an unspeakable tragedy. They learn to foster a bond that lasts throughout life’s ups & downs.
This book is unique because the bulk of it is told through the sisters’ letters to each other. Having two sisters of my own, I really felt the bond, camrarderi, jealousy, & love.
This is the author’s first work of fiction inspired by her grandmother’s story.
I would recommend this book a thousand times over & only hope my review did it justice. I know this story will stay with me for a long time.
Thank you, @katieandbreypa @cheriegenua for inviting me to be a part of this book tour. I’ve loved every minute!
November 14, 2022
Overall Rating- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Having siblings is the greatest blessing in one’s life. Especially sisters are a godsend.
This is the story of 4 sisters whose childhood is brutally cut short by a tragedy which not only gave them trauma but also separated them but they ensured it would only be in distance and not at heart.
They resolved to write letters to each letters and keep being involved in each others lives.
Life gave each of them different taste of struggles and hardships but also love and success 🤞🤗
And despite their hardships they thrived
The format is letter writing and diary entries. Mix of first person and third person narrative which gave it a personal touch while reading
Overall a cute cozy comfy read
Having siblings is the greatest blessing in one’s life. Especially sisters are a godsend.
This is the story of 4 sisters whose childhood is brutally cut short by a tragedy which not only gave them trauma but also separated them but they ensured it would only be in distance and not at heart.
They resolved to write letters to each letters and keep being involved in each others lives.
Life gave each of them different taste of struggles and hardships but also love and success 🤞🤗
And despite their hardships they thrived
The format is letter writing and diary entries. Mix of first person and third person narrative which gave it a personal touch while reading
Overall a cute cozy comfy read
November 29, 2021
This is such an enjoyable debut novel from an Indie author! This tells the heartbreaking and heartwarming story of four sisters. Each sister has the same story and a different story. The author does a great job of telling these “based on a true story” tales, while giving each sister a distinct voice. The best part of the book is the letters the sisters send back and forth. While they are not the real letters that were passed between her grandma and her sisters, they help tell the tale through heart, determination and spirit. Thanks to Cherie Genua for a copy of her book in exchange for an honest review!
November 12, 2022
One tragic day changed the course of their lives forever, but sisters Cookie, Frankie, Dottie, and Connie knew they’d always have each other. Taking advice from the judge who oversaw their cases, the girls agreed to stay in touch and share the details of their lives with each other no matter what. Greetings from Tucson highlights the unbelievable strength of sisterly love and the powers of personal resilience. I was drawn to the story from its tragic start and immediately felt invested in the lives of these four girls, especially knowing it’s based on a true story. You’re gonna need some tissues!
November 10, 2022
BOOK REVIEW
Greetings From Tucson by
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️💫
Ohhhh, this book. A true story about sisterhood, love, loss, hope, and rebuilding. It is filled with tragedy (lots of emotional gut punches, you WILL need tissues), but also so so so much hope. This book broke me and put me back together again, and I was cheering out loud for the success of these women. The self awareness and grit these sisters had is something we should all hope for. Greetings from Tucson reads like The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants and also Little Women.
I very sincerely want to thank the author for sharing her grandmother’s and great aunts’ story and giving us such an intimate look into her families past.
Thank you, Cherie and KatieandBreyPA, for a copy of the ebook in exchange for my honest opinion on this exceptional book.
Greetings From Tucson by
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️💫
Ohhhh, this book. A true story about sisterhood, love, loss, hope, and rebuilding. It is filled with tragedy (lots of emotional gut punches, you WILL need tissues), but also so so so much hope. This book broke me and put me back together again, and I was cheering out loud for the success of these women. The self awareness and grit these sisters had is something we should all hope for. Greetings from Tucson reads like The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants and also Little Women.
I very sincerely want to thank the author for sharing her grandmother’s and great aunts’ story and giving us such an intimate look into her families past.
Thank you, Cherie and KatieandBreyPA, for a copy of the ebook in exchange for my honest opinion on this exceptional book.
November 8, 2022
I enjoyed this heartwarming story about four sisters who experience an unimaginable tragedy as young children that changes the trajectory of their lives forever.
I really related to Cookie, the oldest sister, as I am also the oldest of four girls. I felt their joys and their heartaches, and I cheered them on. The author did an excellent job of connecting the reader to the characters. I will suggest that you have some tissues on hand while you read, though. I am looking forward to future books by this author.
Thanks to Cherie Genua and Katie and Brey PA for the ebook in exchange for my honest thoughts on this book.
I really related to Cookie, the oldest sister, as I am also the oldest of four girls. I felt their joys and their heartaches, and I cheered them on. The author did an excellent job of connecting the reader to the characters. I will suggest that you have some tissues on hand while you read, though. I am looking forward to future books by this author.
Thanks to Cherie Genua and Katie and Brey PA for the ebook in exchange for my honest thoughts on this book.
June 3, 2025
I have two older sisters, so this book spoke to me. This book is beautifully written, and it takes you down a path that reflects on the lives and hardships of four sisters. With that hardship comes beauty, family ties, and grit. I loved this book and highly recommend.
November 7, 2022
I really enjoyed this novel and I really liked the sisters and cared about their lives and the things that happened to them. I really felt the strong connection between the sisters especially through their letters and I found this novel easy to read and heartwarming. I also really like that this novel is inspired by the author’s grandmother.
I received a free ebook of this novel. This review is my honest opinion and is written voluntarily.
I received a free ebook of this novel. This review is my honest opinion and is written voluntarily.
October 30, 2022
I loved this book. It finished it in one sitting and I am not ashamed to say that I cried.
Greetings from Tuscan follows 4 young girls who are separated after their parents tragically pass away. They keep in town with each other by letters as social media wasn’t a thing at the time. They grow up right before your eyes as you read their letters to one another detailing their lives and catching each other up.
I am very close with my 3 sisters. They are my favorite people in to be around so this book struck a little home for me. I am fortunate to not have gone through what these 4 sisters have gone through but their bond is so strong and one I have with my own sisters.
The story was so beautifully written and I hung onto every word. The story dealt with very real issues including sobriety, domestic violence, etc. in a beautiful way. I cried by the end of the book and all I wanted to do was text my sisters and tell them that I loved them. It is a great book by an amazingly talented author.
Greetings from Tuscan follows 4 young girls who are separated after their parents tragically pass away. They keep in town with each other by letters as social media wasn’t a thing at the time. They grow up right before your eyes as you read their letters to one another detailing their lives and catching each other up.
I am very close with my 3 sisters. They are my favorite people in to be around so this book struck a little home for me. I am fortunate to not have gone through what these 4 sisters have gone through but their bond is so strong and one I have with my own sisters.
The story was so beautifully written and I hung onto every word. The story dealt with very real issues including sobriety, domestic violence, etc. in a beautiful way. I cried by the end of the book and all I wanted to do was text my sisters and tell them that I loved them. It is a great book by an amazingly talented author.
November 5, 2022
TOUCHING AND EASY TO READ
December 18, 2021
"Greetings From Tucson" is part fiction, part memoir as Genua regales the reader with the story of her grandmother "Cookie" and Cookie's sisters after the deaths of their parents threw the girls' lives onto a path of discovery and hope.
I admit to have struggled a bit with the gut-punch in the first chapters as both parents die by suicide. This tragedy plays an ongoing role in the girls' lives, but is written in such a way that-- if the reader is prepared for the tragedy in advance-- doesn't tarnish the wellspring of hope and love that pours from each chapter after this tragedy. I know it's faux-pas to discuss suicide, which may be why it's left out of the book synopsis, but the tragedy plays such an important role in the girls' lives that the book wouldn't have made sense had the author excluded the suicide. So, while it's an adverse topic, these chapters are worth muscling through. And, again, if the reader is prepared for the impending doom, it might make those chapters a little more palatable than they were when they were "sprung" on me.
Once you get beyond the dark times, the story becomes something of a coming-of-age memoir of sisterly love, and how they managed to stay a family despite being adopted by two separate families and separated by such a great distance.
I lived in Tucson from 1999 through 2013-- I even added my mark on the area with various roadway projects I worked on as a transportation engineer-- and I was very interested in seeing the area through the eyes of the author. Tucson prides itself on the indie culture, so it's quite fun that an indie author has decided to write about Tucson through the lives of her grandmother and the grandmother's sisters.
I'm going to touch a bit on some of the locations mentioned by name in the story because I love the connection between past and present Tucson lifestyle. The old courthouse was mentioned, and I couldn't help but think of the cupola that graces the southwestern adobe-look that you find in churches like San Xavier del Bac and the older adobe churches downtown. I could picture Dom and Barb walking past the fountain and into the building to get their wedding license. Maybe they walked out to the Mormon Battalion statue on the west side of the structure.
Not too far away, on Toole, is the Amtrak station. This is the same station where Wyatt Earp shot Frank Stillwell, while Virgil Earp was taking Morgan Earp's body back to California for burial. It's also the same Amtrak station across the street from the infamous Hotel Congress, where a random fire led to the capture of the infamous John Dillinger gang, and the 1920's gangster himself. Tucson-- and specifically Hotel Congress-- still celebrates his capture around the weekend of January 20th with "Dillinger Days". I couldn't help but wonder if Congress was the hotel the sisters stayed at downtown... or if was the now-gone Santa Rita Hotel, which hosted many A-list Hollywood actors in its day. Also mentioned was the Sonoran Desert Museum and Old Tucson Studios-- still open to the public today (I think... though Old Tucson Studios isn't the draw it used to be.) So, as a previous resident, I wish there'd been more description of specific locations-- but it wasn't necessary for the story. Just thought it'd be fun to muse about.
The characters (or real people, I suppose) are a delight to read. I couldn't help but think of Nadine's-- the Jewish bakery on Broadway near Alvernon-- when I was reading about Dottie's delicious confections. I really wish I lived down there, so I could pull a copy of the Star to see the article about Dottie... Cookie and Ray's love story was whimsical-- I'd have liked a little more information about when Ray and Cookie were briefly separated. It was implied that they reunited when Cookie returned from a trip to Arizona-- but it wasn't entirely clear. Reading about Frankie and her struggles deciding what career to pursue were relatable on many levels.
I really liked the snippits of letters followed by storytelling narrative of the girls' lives. It felt a little like we had more of Cookie's story than the other girls, which makes sense because it was her letters that the author found that inspired her to write the book. The author also includes little sketches here and there throughout the book-- I kept wondering if these were Frankie's actual sketches or if they were drawn specifically for the book. The cover sports these sketches, which nicely ties the cover to the lives within. It was a nice touch.
The different life-events that were touched on were fun, and the book are really engaging for the reader, and the love the Genua has for her grandmother and her sisters really pops from the pages. It's a sweet story of sisterly love in the face of the adversity of separation. It was a happy ending to read how well their lives turned out.
If you like stories about people/memoirs, you'll probably enjoy this heart-felt tale of four sisters who find their way after the deaths of their mother and father. It is a beautiful story of love, friendship, and life.
I appreciate Genua bearing her grandmother's soul, and am thankful to have won a copy through Goodreads First Reads giveaways. This is my honest review of the book. I don't know the author.
On my rating scale, 3 stars is average. I'd give the book 3.5 stars if I could do half-stars. Since I can't-- I'm rounding up.
I want to thank the author for the presentation of the book when it arrived-- the wrapping paper, the bookmarks, seeds, and other notes she sent with the book. It really shows her love for her book... and that alone makes it worth the read. Thanks for the journey! (I may pass it along to my mother in-law for a read. My in-laws currently reside in the Old Pueblo- Tucson.)
I admit to have struggled a bit with the gut-punch in the first chapters as both parents die by suicide. This tragedy plays an ongoing role in the girls' lives, but is written in such a way that-- if the reader is prepared for the tragedy in advance-- doesn't tarnish the wellspring of hope and love that pours from each chapter after this tragedy. I know it's faux-pas to discuss suicide, which may be why it's left out of the book synopsis, but the tragedy plays such an important role in the girls' lives that the book wouldn't have made sense had the author excluded the suicide. So, while it's an adverse topic, these chapters are worth muscling through. And, again, if the reader is prepared for the impending doom, it might make those chapters a little more palatable than they were when they were "sprung" on me.
Once you get beyond the dark times, the story becomes something of a coming-of-age memoir of sisterly love, and how they managed to stay a family despite being adopted by two separate families and separated by such a great distance.
I lived in Tucson from 1999 through 2013-- I even added my mark on the area with various roadway projects I worked on as a transportation engineer-- and I was very interested in seeing the area through the eyes of the author. Tucson prides itself on the indie culture, so it's quite fun that an indie author has decided to write about Tucson through the lives of her grandmother and the grandmother's sisters.
I'm going to touch a bit on some of the locations mentioned by name in the story because I love the connection between past and present Tucson lifestyle. The old courthouse was mentioned, and I couldn't help but think of the cupola that graces the southwestern adobe-look that you find in churches like San Xavier del Bac and the older adobe churches downtown. I could picture Dom and Barb walking past the fountain and into the building to get their wedding license. Maybe they walked out to the Mormon Battalion statue on the west side of the structure.
Not too far away, on Toole, is the Amtrak station. This is the same station where Wyatt Earp shot Frank Stillwell, while Virgil Earp was taking Morgan Earp's body back to California for burial. It's also the same Amtrak station across the street from the infamous Hotel Congress, where a random fire led to the capture of the infamous John Dillinger gang, and the 1920's gangster himself. Tucson-- and specifically Hotel Congress-- still celebrates his capture around the weekend of January 20th with "Dillinger Days". I couldn't help but wonder if Congress was the hotel the sisters stayed at downtown... or if was the now-gone Santa Rita Hotel, which hosted many A-list Hollywood actors in its day. Also mentioned was the Sonoran Desert Museum and Old Tucson Studios-- still open to the public today (I think... though Old Tucson Studios isn't the draw it used to be.) So, as a previous resident, I wish there'd been more description of specific locations-- but it wasn't necessary for the story. Just thought it'd be fun to muse about.
The characters (or real people, I suppose) are a delight to read. I couldn't help but think of Nadine's-- the Jewish bakery on Broadway near Alvernon-- when I was reading about Dottie's delicious confections. I really wish I lived down there, so I could pull a copy of the Star to see the article about Dottie... Cookie and Ray's love story was whimsical-- I'd have liked a little more information about when Ray and Cookie were briefly separated. It was implied that they reunited when Cookie returned from a trip to Arizona-- but it wasn't entirely clear. Reading about Frankie and her struggles deciding what career to pursue were relatable on many levels.
I really liked the snippits of letters followed by storytelling narrative of the girls' lives. It felt a little like we had more of Cookie's story than the other girls, which makes sense because it was her letters that the author found that inspired her to write the book. The author also includes little sketches here and there throughout the book-- I kept wondering if these were Frankie's actual sketches or if they were drawn specifically for the book. The cover sports these sketches, which nicely ties the cover to the lives within. It was a nice touch.
The different life-events that were touched on were fun, and the book are really engaging for the reader, and the love the Genua has for her grandmother and her sisters really pops from the pages. It's a sweet story of sisterly love in the face of the adversity of separation. It was a happy ending to read how well their lives turned out.
If you like stories about people/memoirs, you'll probably enjoy this heart-felt tale of four sisters who find their way after the deaths of their mother and father. It is a beautiful story of love, friendship, and life.
I appreciate Genua bearing her grandmother's soul, and am thankful to have won a copy through Goodreads First Reads giveaways. This is my honest review of the book. I don't know the author.
On my rating scale, 3 stars is average. I'd give the book 3.5 stars if I could do half-stars. Since I can't-- I'm rounding up.
I want to thank the author for the presentation of the book when it arrived-- the wrapping paper, the bookmarks, seeds, and other notes she sent with the book. It really shows her love for her book... and that alone makes it worth the read. Thanks for the journey! (I may pass it along to my mother in-law for a read. My in-laws currently reside in the Old Pueblo- Tucson.)
August 12, 2023
This is one of the best books I have ever read!This is a emotional story of 4 sisters separated by such a tragedy. The story took so many twists and turns so at one moment your crying and the next your exploding with happiness. The main character gives every detail of her life and describes it in a way you can understand, even if you have never felt that way before. I suggest this book to teens and adults ages 13 to 103 because of some more grown up topics that are discussed. Overall, this book shows the events and troubles in a young girls life as she grows up very differently girls her age ever know. This book will be something you can never put down!
October 14, 2021
I loved this book! “Greetings from Tucson” is the story of loss, change, heartbreak, and tragedy; but also, the story of love, growth, community, and connection. From the prolouge, I was hooked. The first couple of chapters left me shook. The characters are relatable and real-feeling, with such an interesting perspective.
October 7, 2022
One day everything went wrong
4 sisters were orphaned and had to learn how to make their way in the world, while living thousands of miles apart.
4 sisters were orphaned and had to learn how to make their way in the world, while living thousands of miles apart.
July 31, 2024
amazing book!
This book was so amazing! I wanted to cry and I laughed and smiled throughout! What an inspiring story and written so well! 10/10 recommend!
This book was so amazing! I wanted to cry and I laughed and smiled throughout! What an inspiring story and written so well! 10/10 recommend!
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